Why are some of the sound effects so loud (and inconsistent)?

I've noticed this as well. Some sound level normalization would be appreciated. I like the new effects (they add to immersion), but without consistency in volume, it makes me want to turn them off.

let me know which ones are problematic.  (ill check out the ignys bow and web sfx).

Hi gang - Yes, please do post here and let us know.  The way our system is setup is that some stuff (like bows) are considered spells, so they can become unintentionally loud (or soft).  

I can't check this right now, but I want to say throwing knives fell into that category. I assume they also functioned like a spell, maybe making them louder than intended.

Haven't had a chance to play the game lately due to work, but I have a feeling it may be the entire group of spell effects. Even items or weapons that utilizes spell sound effects are quite loud at times. It is not so bad for more soothing or whistling sounds like Slow or Throwing Knives, but the Ignys Bow just sound like a bazooka on my computer and Web sounds like quite a jarring whip.

Banished Ogres tend to louder than expected, especially when they're hit with an attack.

It's been awhile since I've heard, but has that occasional loud lightning strike when playing an empire faction been taken care of?

Other than that, I've thought the game to be fairly balanced for sound (and I've been paying attention because I had that game start book sound problem since 0.951 that was fixed in 0.983.) versions are approximate.

KK, thanks for the info everyone.

Thank you, Yarlen!

The Unit Details screen has always felt a bit loud to me, especially when transitioning from the strategic map.