Laptop Speakers

So, I have this shiny new laptop, and last night I decided to watch a netflix movie. I could BARELY hear it. I've noticed with other applications that the volume is very low. I checked the sound settings and everything is maxed out. Is there any way that I am not thinking of to make the speakers louder? I would like to be able to sit at my desk and watch a movie, but at this point I can't even hear it over the air conditioner. Help?

Asus speakera are not the best, so what I do is use my Ear buds from my Ipad/Ipod. Or extermal mini speakers would work too..