I used to have an ARC SP3a that had something called a "Contour" control. Basically, it was a tuneable "loudness" control. I don't recall seeing it on any subsequent models. If the tone controls were activated you could control the curve to add more bottom end for low listening levels. I never used it all that much. Being as this was mumblety years ago, I seldom listened at low levels anyways. But I could see it as a handy tool for apartment/condo dwellers or for background level music.
Cheers...
Cheers...