I’ve recently switched from Google Cast to Alexa for my home audio setup, and while the transition has been smooth, I noticed a gap in fine-tuned volume control across multiple rooms. The default Alexa app doesn’t offer the granularity I needed, especially with varying speaker sensitivities. After some research and experimentation, I developed a custom solution using shell scripts and Home Assistant automations to achieve precise volume control. Here’s a brief overview of my setup:
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Individual and Group Volume Control: I created input_number sliders for each Alexa device and a group slider. Adjusting the group slider evenly distributes volume changes across all devices, while individual sliders allow for nuanced adjustments.
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Volume Distribution Logic: To maintain a balanced sound across rooms, the group volume adjustment is divided by four and applied to each device. This prevents overpowering any single speaker while ensuring a cohesive listening experience.
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Automated Updates: Periodic volume checks ensure that manual adjustments via voice or app are reflected in Home Assistant, keeping everything in sync without user intervention.
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Special Handling for Louder Speakers: My Echo 2nd Gen is significantly louder, so I’ve capped its maximum volume at 50% to prevent imbalance in multi-room setups.
This solution has transformed my audio experience, offering the precision and convenience I sought. I’d love to hear how others optimize their Alexa setups or if there’s interest in turning this into a community-supported component!