[centerchannel68]

See this thread:

http://forums.macnn.com/90/mac-os-x/...s-audio-allow/

I want to be able to use optical audio, and have the functionality of my volume keys, and have my remote work. Basically, I want my volume 'unlocked'.

[centerchannel68]

I still want to pay someone for this.

[glypht]

The optical out is a line-level output. Like the line out jack on an ipod dock, it's purpose is to send an unamplified signal for external amplification and as such it should remain unchanged by the system volume settings. This is proper behaviour.

However, I agree that for people hooking up iTunes to a stereo and using the Apple remote it must be annoying. I take it the volume buttons on the Apple remote change the system volume (I don't have a Front Row mac)? If you adjust the volume using iTunes' slider does that change the volume of your music as heard over the optical connection? This would be logical behaviour as you are adjusting the app's volume and not the system volume, in which case there may be ways to get the functionality you are looking for...

[inkhead]

It's optical, it's not supposed to be amplified period, and there is no optical amp that would fit in a portable computer. If the device your hooking it to doesn't go loud enough then you need a new device, or stop using optical because it's not designed for what you want. Optical is designed for professional recording/playback when developing tracks. For playing back itunes through 1/8 stereo jack, you could put pure 100% DAT audio through 1/8 inch stereo jack, so putting it through optical GIVES you no improvement.