Clipping!

[newtoaudio90]

Quick question,

I understand clipping may result from having speakers underpowered.

If you were to set a source ( such as a PC) to full volume and turn down the volume at the amp- could this induce clipping?

I.e. Could turning the amp UP rectify the problem?

I know this inst the typical scenario but I am trying to learn and am curious.

 

[Irvrobinson]

Clipping can occur from an input overload, so the answer to your question is yes, but it is impossible to do anything but speculate without testing. For example, it appears as if the input of my Velodyne subwoofer is more vulnerable than one would expect to input overload.

 

[newtoaudio90]

Okay thanks

However what I do not understand is people turn their speakers down to producing minimal sound all the time with the amp itself (while the PC volume control is maxed out) and it doesn't produce clipping.

 

[Irvrobinson]

A PC volume control can be different. I didn't know we were talking about computer audio. If it's a software-driven volume control it adjusts volume in the digital domain, which reduces resolution. So the advice with software volume controls is to run them at full volume, to get the maximum possible word width, and adjust the actual volume downstream.

 

[newtoaudio90]

Okay thanks Irvrobinson.

Im definitely not worried about clipping now as you guys all say just to max out the computer.

I understand the basics of clipping- i.e. over-driving an amp.

Why does this not occur when digital output is set to 100% and you turn down volume at the amp?

I would of thought that the amp being turned down it is not supplying as much power and the speakers want to drive more due to the 100% PC setting?

 

[Irvrobinson]

Okay thanks Irvrobinson.

Im definitely not worried about clipping now as you guys all say just to max out the computer.

I understand the basics of clipping- i.e. over-driving an amp.

Why does this not occur when digital output is set to 100% and you turn down volume at the amp?

I would of thought that the amp being turned down it is not supplying as much power and the speakers want to drive more due to the 100% PC setting?

Can you describe the entire system we're discussing?