Does It have to be loud?

I think we should draw a distinction between what sounds loud, and sound pressure level, as they are two different things. Also, the distortion as written about herein this thread (occurring in speakers as the volume is raised at and above 95db) is occurring in the *higher frequency band* (above 2K) as measured by sound stage. Those higher frequencies aren't necessarily the dominant factor when it comes to SPL.

In other words, I submit to the group that one CAN produce (hypothetical example) 100 db without much if any distortion, AND it may not sound (very) "loud". How so? Simple. Play music whose content is primarily lower frequencies, drums, organ, etc. If vocal and higher frequency sounds are absent, you'll have your high SPL, little if any distortion and it likely wouldn't be perceived as "loud" as if you had played a vocal track and then achieved the 100db on the basis of the vocals.

When I want to evaluate a system, including when critically listening to my own, I like relatively low volumes. If a system can move me with range, speed and detail at lower levels, I feel it is working well for my tastes. Once in a while, I will crank up one piece or another when I am in the mood, and yes that also gives me some information about the quality of the system’s sound. But I don’t think loudness should be necessary for most music, if the system is solid. Besides, I have hearing loss as it is, and I want to keep what I have left so I can keep enjoying it.

I agree with Kumakahn, I like to evaluate a system at low levels. If you need to crank it to get the frequency extremities its not for me as I listen at low levels. One thing I do notice about low level listening is the room plays less of a role as does vibration, so the effectiveness of feet etc. However, tweaks or cable changes etc seem harder to distinguish.

It needs to be as loud as you need it to be, no more and no less. I'm also in the camp that says each type of music and recording can determine what that level should be.

Every recording was mixed and mastered at a certain volume. Good engineers will then check and make sure that the end product holds up at different volumes. That is not always the case, though. To get it to sound right often you need to match the levels used during the mixing and mastering process.

However, in spite of everything, in the end the sweet spot is were the music hits you as right. For me it is usually 80 through 110. Rock and pop is generally louder, jazz in between and folk or singer song writer lower.