Shades, I beg to differ, please about the volume booster not doing what I expect.

I did try out one of them on its 14 day trial, and it really did amplify the sound a LOT - we were quite pleased.  That aside, the volume would dip periodically to its normal top volume and then gradually (thankfully) return - and that I do attribute to the volume booster program.

I understand what you mean though (I think) about the Atmos audio setup and how it could conflict with the output when its not actually present.

I was just thinking maybe some program could amplify the sound my computer puts out, regardless of what systems are used to understand the streaming input.  I mean, if you can use a small app to capture the sound sent the speakers, then surely you could programmatically amplify the sound being sent to them.

[posted in the wrong thread;  removed]

Thanks, Shades. Well, I'd describe it as semi-mechanical.  It has the keycaps and the shafts that press down through the base onto the membrane. 
In my original post, I linked to a photo of when the keycap is removed.
I am able to pop the keys off with no problem.

graphite, eh?  I thought about that, but didn't pursue the thought. 

I think what the problem is is that the key shafts stick inside their holes, because it happens also with the smaller keys that don't have stabilizers.  It's just worse with the larger keys.