iPod dock and Airport Express different volumes

[zachmattheus]

My iPod dock and Airport Express are different volumes when plugged into my integrated amp. How can I make sure they are equal so I don't hurt my speakers when I switch. The dock is usually louder. Is there a way to turn off volume control on the iPod when it is in the dock?

 

[The Computer Audiophile]

My guess is you'd need a Wadia i170 to use the digital output from the iPod. Then your volumes would likely match. Unless I'm overlooking something here.

 

[zachmattheus]

That would be great if I had the extra $400 + money for a DAC right now, but I'm running the iPod into my NAD C370 integrated amp (no DAC).

 

[Audio_ELF]

It's my understanding that most (all) iPod docks do use the line out function of your iPod on the docking connector which does bypass the volume control. Which dock do you use for your iPod?

 

If you want to balance the volume levels between two devices a bit more, it's possible to put an attenuator in line with the input cable. Rothwell Audio (or maybe Roth Audio - I can't exactly remember the company name) make plug-in attenuators or Kimber make cables with attenuation built in. I'm sure others are available as well ... Google is your friend.

 

Eloise