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Increase Bluetooth Dynamic Range

If you've been noticing clipping when turning gain up while on Bluetooth, or you want just a little bit more headroom, then you might want to try disabling Bluetooth Absolute Volume.

What is Bluetooth Absolute Volume?​

Absolute Volume is a feature that combines your phone’s volume with your Bluetooth device's internal volume. Basically, when you raise or lower the volume on your phone, you're adjusting both your phone’s output and your Bluetooth device's gain.

This might be convenient for a lot of people, but it can actually reduce your ability to finely tune audio output. In some cases, it can even compress the dynamic range, making quiet sounds louder and loud sounds quieter.

Some users report:

  • Inability to reach full volume on certain Bluetooth devices.
  • Reduced control over gain.
  • Loss of subtle detail due to clipping or compression.

Disabling Absolute Volume separates the phone and Bluetooth device volume levels again, giving you more control and better sound quality - especially when using more advanced EQ settings.

How to Disable Bluetooth Absolute Volume​

Note: This option is usually found in Developer Options. If you don't see Developer Options, you'll need to enable them first.

Step 1: Enable Developer Options​

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to About phone.
  3. Tap Build number 7 times until you see "You are now a developer!"

Step 2: Disable Absolute Volume​

  1. Go back to Settings.
  2. Open System > Developer options.
  3. Scroll down and find Disable absolute volume.
  4. Toggle it on.

Once enabled, your Bluetooth device and phone will have separate volume controls, giving you more control over volume levels and EQ behavior.

When Should I Use This?​

Disabling Absolute Volume is most useful if:

  • You're using the Parametric Equalizer feature and want better gain control.
  • Your Bluetooth device seems too quiet, even at full phone volume.
  • You're getting distortion at higher volumes.

Try toggling the setting and see how it affects your audio quality. It can be a night-and-day difference for many users.