Connect Mac Mini M4 to External Speakers via HDMI

I am about to upgrade to the Mac Mini M4. I currently have external speakers connected to an amp which connects to the iMac via 3.5mm audio jack.

I would like to connect that 3.5 jack to the Mac Mini, but do not want to use the front socket. I thought I could use the HDMI port, and HDMI audio extractor with a 3.5 socket, to achieve the desired outcome. I have however read suggestions that I would lose the ability to control the volume via Mac Mini, ie I would have to use the amp's volume control. Does anybody have any insights to offer here?

Are there any other options? Could I use one of the USB-C ports and connect via USB-C to 3.5mm adaptor? Do I buy a hub with 3.5 socket, even though I do not presently need any of the features of a hub?