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Turn down the Volume!

One topic that seems rarely discussed is volume. If you listen to mixing engineers, it’s their most feared aspect of how their work is measured, since it’s out of their control. This leads to things like loudness wars (assume the worst). As my system has improved, my main takeaway is I can be engaged with 60db peaks, where when I hear other systems you often have to turn it up to 90db peaks for it to sound decent. I’m pretty sure it all has to do with bass and room energy, but wonder if others have a similar experience. Side note that reviews or any subjective ‘better’ statements about gear rarely indicate how loud they are listening. since all we can perceive if volume it is puzzling. I will say if it sounds good with 110 db peaks then that is impressive. 

dain
onlyqualityhifi
21 posts
 

I agree with @mijostyn I OWNED an ultra high end dealership I also produced and mixed multi million selling records.

VERY VERY FEW SYSTEMS come close to conveying the music even remotely accurately, and playing at low volume will not IMO get you there

The RRV needs to be set correctly, that’s a first, then it’s down to so many other factors starting with the amp, the heart and soul of every system

Im fortunate enough to having experienced audio nirvana and I can assure you it’s awesome. Pure utter joy.

 

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@onlyqualityhifi , thank you for responding. It always helps to have backup. People in the business never want to upset people as they might lose business. They won't lie, they just won't tell you the truth. This comment does not apply to the snake oil venders. 

As I have state in the past, every recording has a "right" volume. I have always thought that this had to do with the volume it was mixed at as our frequency response changes with volume. Do you think this is correct? 

The first time I heard a seriously well set up system my jaw must have dropped three feet, frisson every minute. It took me 30 years to better that system and I still have a few problems to solve.

Another note. It is not just the equipment but also how the equipment is use and the room it is placed in. 

onlyqualityhifi
21 posts
 

@mijostyn Hi, no. Its NOT correct. The RRV when set correctly is right for EVERY recording. Many will disagree. I cant help that. 

Also you cant set RRV accurately with a stepped remote. Its not accurate enough. The RRV needs precision.

I HAVE the best system ive ever heard and boy have I heard a few.  Many are literally reduced to tears when they hear.  Oh and its in a small REALLY crap room. So yes. The room affects but not as much as you may think. Well not in my set up. Certain amps ‘take out’ the room’s affect. 

jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 

I HAVE the best system ive ever heard and boy have I heard a few. Many are literally reduced to tears when they hear. Oh and its in a small REALLY crap room. So yes. The room affects but not as much as you may think. Well not in my set up.

Im fortunate enough to having experienced audio nirvana and I can assure you it’s awesome. Pure utter joy.

I OWNED an ultra high end dealership I also produced and mixed multi million selling records.

i think kenjit’s uncle has signed in...

onlyqualityhifi
21 posts
 

Anything to add to the convo @jjss49 

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