>

Set Output Volume with pactl set-sink-volume

Change the volume of the default audio output (or any sink) from the terminal with pactl, including relative steps.

LinuxpactlsoundpulseaudiovolumeLow risk
Run `pactl set-sink-volume @DEFAULT_SINK@ 70%` to set the default output volume to 70 percent.

01Command

Command
$ pactl set-sink-volume @DEFAULT_SINK@ 70%

02What it does

@DEFAULT_SINK@ targets whatever output is currently active, so the same command works when you switch between speakers and headphones. Relative forms like `+5%` or `-10%` are perfect for custom keyboard shortcuts, and `pactl get-sink-volume @DEFAULT_SINK@` shows the current level. Per-app volumes are handled by pavucontrol's GUI or `pactl set-sink-input-volume <index> 50%`.

03Risk

RiskLow risk
RequirementsPulseAudio or PipeWire (both ship pactl on modern desktops). List outputs with `pactl list short sinks`; relative changes: `pactl set-sink-volume @DEFAULT_SINK@ +5%`.
!Warning: Setting a value above 100% (e.g. 150%) applies software amplification — expect distortion and possible loud bursts; it cannot damage hardware but can be startling.

04Undo

Undo
$ pactl set-sink-volume @DEFAULT_SINK@ 100%

05Sources

  • pactl(1) - Linux manual page
    Ubuntu Manpages · technical · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: pactl set-sink-volume sets the volume of a sink, accepting percentages or absolute values, with @DEFAULT_SINK@ referring to the default output.

Last verified: 2026-09-18 · Category: System & Settings