While faithful readers of MacBetaGroup.com are awaiting the new and improved site (returning to its beta roots) there is an interesting problem to report. Along with the Mac OS X 10.4.9 update there appears to have been a change to the default sound levels. Apparently this hasn’t effected external speakers or headphones, but the lowest setting when adjusting sound for the internal speakers is now too loud. We tested this with several systems (desktop and laptop) and the results are definitive. Take, for example, an Intel iMac Core 2 Duo. Previously, using the sound controls on the keyboard, a comfortable sound level was at half (half of the sound bars). Currently, that same setting is now at the first bar. That is a difference of around 7 bars. This a big change for users not used to being blown away by their systems. Apple should put out a press release and update to apologize for this mishap.

Apart from that, since September of 2006, every single iMac that this site has purchased has developed a yellowing/browning display near the “Inverter” housed behind the display. In Apple’s overzealous attempt to make everything as thin as possible, they’ve inadvertently created a heating issue. This would also appear to be directly related to their attempts to gain more market share. It’s akin to fins on cars. At the time, before safety features and functionality became the modus operendi of the automotive world, design was everything. Hence, manufacturers and designers began placing fins on cars. The same thing has happened with Apple. Eventually, they will have to wed form and functionality in a proper fusing so as not to create dangerous situations.

This will most likely be the last posting of this sort before the new site is up and running. We have a bevy of new services, as well as the return of old services, to please Mac users around the globe.