So I just updated my drivers for this piece of embedded hardware.

It states all over the documentation that there is an "Embedded 50m!/20ohm OP at front LINE output"

Does this mean it is a sort of headphone amp?

If so, does anyone know how I would activate it?

Also, how would I know if it was activated? Would I notice a higher volume level in my headphones?

just for reference, the product page is here: http://www.realtek.com.tw/products/product...aspx?modelid=30

and you can download datasheets and tech documents here: http://www.realtek.com.tw/downloads/downlo...mpamodel=ALC650

Any help is appreciated...

The reason I ask is that as it is right now, the output to my headphones seems to be a very low volume, and I cant quite figure out why. (if there is a 50mW amp there, I would assume it would be louder, however it is quieter even than my minidisc player which outputs at a maximum of 12mW I believe).

I believe the integrated operational amplifier will be on by default on the front stereo output channel ("line out"). You may want to specify that you have headphones attached to that output in the Realtek control panel under the "speaker configuration" tab.

What impedence is your minidisc player rated to deliver 12mW into by the way?
And what impedence are your headphones?

V(oltage)=I(amperage) *R(impedence)
therefore I=V/R

There is a "loudness" option in the default Microsoft volume control (speaker picture) under "advanced controls" that boosts the volume still more, though I'd suspect it messes with the linearity of the frequency response like nearly all "loudness" controls.