I used to have a laptop with a built-in tiny hardware volume dial. It was hooked directly into the power to the amp and speakers so it worked instantly even if

I used to have a laptop with a built-in tiny hardware volume dial. It was hooked directly into the power to the amp and speakers so it worked instantly even if the machine was bogged down with loud busy autoplay video web sites or other awfulness. I'd pay extra for another one like that.