Windows 7: another sound issue

ok here are the specs on the laptop (notebook i guess there called now) i just got.
Product DescriptionMSI CR620 033US - Core i3 330M 2.13 GHz - 15.6" TFTDimensions (WxDxH)14.7 in x 9.7 in x 1.2 inWeight5.5 lbsSystem TypeNotebookBuilt-in DevicesStereo speakers, wireless LAN antennaProcessorIntel Core i3 330M / 2.13 GHz ( Dual-Core )Cache Memory3 MBRAM4 GB (installed) / 4 GB (max) - DDR3 SDRAM ( 2 x 2 GB )Card Reader4 in 1Hard Drive320 GB - Serial ATA-150Optical StorageDVD-Writer / BD-ROMDisplay15.6" TFT 1366 x 768 ( WXGA )Graphics ControllerIntel HD Graphics Dynamic Video Memory Technology 5.0Audio OutputSound cardNetworkingNetwork adapter - Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n (draft)Notebook CameraIntegrated - 1.3 MegapixelInput DeviceKeyboard, touchpadPowerAC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )Operating SystemMicrosoft Windows 7 Home Premium


problem is the sound quality sucks. I havn't updated any recent windows updates yet. after reading some of these threads im scared too.
I have the volume at max. and i cant hear the people talking but i hear music (when im watching streaming video). when i play a dvd its so quiet i have to strain to hear anything.
my other laptop was loud enough (running xp home) that i only need to turn the volume half way.
ironically when i press the test button its alot louder then when the movie is playing. why wont the movies play as loud as the test button?
also when i plug in a headphone in the jack only one side works.
any ideas?

bluebikerboy1, welcome to the forums.

First thing I would do is start with updating the sound drivers to the latest. Had a look at the specs for your laptop and it has the Realtek HD audio in it and you can find links to the latest driver here,

Latest Realtek HD Audio Driver Version

If that doesn't sort it there are a few other things to try.

Thanks for the welcome and the link.
I downloaded the driver (i used the top link shown in the thread) and the set up wizard thing says it took the old one off and replaced it with the new driver. i restarted and the sucessfull driver install thing came up so i think it was done right. I dont notice any real improvements . \volume still maxed out and its still no were as loud as id like
any ideas?

Couple of ideas....

Right click the MS speaker icon in the tray, select playback devices.
Select speakers with a single left click, then selet the Properties button.

You should have a window with several tabs, do you have the "Enhancements" tab? Try activating "Loudness Equalization", if it's already activated, deactivate it.

Another thing to try, enable Equalization and set up your own curve.
The other enhancements should be off.

Back to where you started except select the Recording Devices tab... select the Communications tab, selct "Do Nothing".

Worth a shot-

Ap

thank you for the ideas
ok the enhancements helped. its better but still not maxed out. the do nothing on the communications tab was already enabled.
Can you explain this curve thing in more detail?

thank you

th

I ended up buying some detachable speakers that plug in the usb. much much better. seems wierd that the on board speakers are so weak. i guess its just the brand of laptop?

I was just going to mention that you can use the Equalizer to increase volume by moving all of the eq bars up an equal amount say 30-50% then adjust the eq curve to taste.

Ap