How can I disable Audio? Let me Count the Ways

I love the concept of audio (especially iTunes), but I’ve noticed that there are about 4 volume controls you can screw up in a typical set up.
The minimum number is 2
1) The desktop volume control
2) In the media player (e.g. Quicktime, iTunes)
If either is lowered, then you have no sound.
But if you’re a student in a lab, then you have headphones which means you’re up to 3 places to troubleshoot. if you’re headphones have an independent volume control (that little slidey thing).
1) The desktop volume control
2) In the media player (e.g. Quicktime, iTunes)
3) Headphone volume (little slidey thing)
Or…in my case, my headphones connect to external speakers which have a volume control.
And if I switch to USB headphones for Breeze, I have to go into my control panel to set the input/output correctly. So, if I’m on Breeze on my headphones plugged into my speakers… I have FIVE (5) places to check
Five Places Audio can Die in Breeze
1) The desktop volume control (which will bast sound when laptop is remote)
2) In the media player (e.g. Quicktime, iTunes)
3) Headphone volume (little slidey thing)
4) Speaker volume – so I can have one speaker for 2 computers
5) Control panel for input/output settings
This is a classic usability problem. You should have one master control (I suggest the desktop volume) and that’s it.
Now can all the audio controls listen to each other and manage it?