Is louder better?

I like loud (90+db) but usually I listen more in the 70-80db (peak) volumes. It’s more comfortable over time. My system isn’t fatiguing at all. I am just bombarded by loud all the time. A little more mellow is good. And I totally disagree with “play at concert levels” thing... that will kill your ears faster than anything. I’m a professional drummer, so I am VERY familiar with loud. I always wear ear protection at concerts these days. We are only getting older and I like hearing with detail.

I find that the optimum level for listening is about a tenth of a twist higher than the level at which I worry that it is going to bother the people in neighboring apartments. I do believe there is a minimum level that you must have to get the full benefit of your system. Paul McGowan of PS Audio has done a number of enlightening YouTube clips on this subject:

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=PS+audio+low+level

...prefer Breakfast in America, but some ST better than none...*S*
To each....*S*

Agreed, this older stuff makes the image in the mirror really annoying.
The aids certainly restored mids in a satisfactory fashion...

...esp. when spouse proclaims "You haven't heard anything I've said!" in a much closer proximity....

Saying 'what?' is tantamount to "Kill me Now..." *L*

(Think of it as an 'onboard inline eq with nifty functions...."The best amp you own....You Wear!*VBS* (nft applied for). ;)

There are some general guidance documents on setting up studio monitoring systems for level. Many adopt Bob Katz* approach (1). I came across the following link which is a bit easier to follow (2).
The size of the room is very important, since the -20dB point will need to be at somewhere between 75dB for a smallish room (UK lounge :-) ) to 85dB for a big room which is a big range difference.
* Well known mastering engineer.

When you have a system setup like this, it is surprising how many recordings "snap into focus! In terms of loudness they sound right. Obviously, most systems can go louder, but I've observed that when doing so, although everything is louder, it seems less right. Bear in mind, that domestically available recordings are mixed for domestic consumption, not PA levels of energy. I feel that a system that sounds right at PA levels is probably not right.

(1) https://www.digido.com/portfolio-item/level-practices-part-1/ and https://www.digido.com/portfolio-item/level-practices-part-2/
(2) https://www.gearslutz.com/board/mastering-forum/1024714-depth-bob-katz-k-system-tutorial.html