History & Situation:
I\'m currently working on updating a Java application that was developed for a client several years ago (to run on WinXP) a
My guess is since you're using an USB device, your Java sound API does not access the correct channel.
You can have a look at how to adjust the master volume in Windows XP. I know you aren't working in XP but have a look at how to access specific Lines and Mixers on that link. You may have to experiment a bit to find the correct line and mixer combination, or offer your users a GUI that allows them to choose the correct line and mixer combination.
I've run applications that work with this method in Windows 7 so I doubt that it's an O compatibility issue.