Turning a T43 up to 11 (sound question)

[beer]

Got a T43 a month or 2 ago, a refurb from a lease. Great price, great machine, great replacement for my T22 that lasted for an eternity. I dig the indestructibility of Thinkpads and the full size keyboard. And the fact I can beat the hell out of them and they come back for more.

My only complaint about this thing is that it isn't loud enough on the internal speakers. The volume (and I have everything possible maxed out) on this one is quieter the the old T22. For example, I work at a bar and clean up after close. I can hardly hear the thing if I have the exhaust hood on over the fryers/grills or the sprayer at the sink. I'm usually listening to podcasts of radio shows from the station's website. I get a little more gain if I download them and listen with Winamp but that's not always possible given the various sources. Yes, I also have some b!tchin' tinnitus working after 17 years in radio. The T22 could cut in over the noise. Any suggestions?

[RealBlackStuff]

Welcome to the Forum.
If you always listen to it at the same location, I suggest you get some powered external speakers, such as the Logitech X-140.
These have a direct AC power cord, rather than a power adapter and cord, and are very sturdy.
In view of your 'greasy' environment, these would be perfect.
If you want to spend more, go for Logitech V10 or V20 speakers.

See also this: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=58&t=81852