Low volume on built-in speakers

When playing music/soundtrack from hard disk or CD/DVD, the volume level on the built-in speakers is very low, I have to crank up the player volume levels as well as the system speaker volume levels to maximum to hear only a low level. Skype audio also very low. System sounds are loud enough. Plugging earphones in results in mediocre level with levels cranked up. Using VLC and Windows Media players, both earlier and latest versions. Was like this from new. Original Win7 pro and drivers as installed by supplier. ProBook 4540s.