How do you listen?

I just realized that I actually don't listen at 80db very often. It's usually closer to 75 or even slightly less.

As a side note the book "Of Sound Mind" by Nina Kraus is a great read for the audiophiles out there

Thanks for the book recommendation...

Edcyn,

I discovered the same thing. My peaks are at around 75 or less.

I sold off my analog rig a few years ago, but I did notice that even with very clean vinyl I was boosting the volume a bit.  The lower the noise floor, the less volume needed to hear micro detail.  In general I dislike listening at low volumes and will do so only under duress.  Unfortunately my two channel system sits next to our bedroom and my wife tends to go to bed early so I feel a little guilt about the sound levels in the evening but fortunately she is a good sleeper.

Low to moderate volumes gives me the most enjoyment.  Trying to recreate a musical event you are dealing with how the material was mixed, the source the speakers, you're room...I think it's impossible and how long can one listen to high levels of SPLs in a box of a room?  10-20, maybe 30 minutes before getting fatigued?   I can listen and enjoy at lower volumes. I listen for pleasure, not perfection. I do still want accurate tone though.