What is the proper loudness for listening?


Paul McGowan via YouTube claims that each room, system and recording has a specific sound level at which music sounds most "real"

I've noticed this myself listening to my 3 different systems set up in differing rooms. Thought I was crazy to think so but I guess maybe I'm not?

Also, have notice in smaller listening rooms that lower maximum volume levels sound more real.  Going too high on volume in a small room just overloads it and results in distortion

Any comments?

bobbydd

@mapman That’s certainly true. I have a higher end system in a medium size superb listening room. I prefer listening in the 80s db range with 100db maximum peaks, depending on music. No distortion problems. I can also enjoy music at low levels and in-between due to the great tonal/colorful sound as well as relative dynamics of the recording. This is more true of my classical music than jazz and then of my rock music. There is a range of loudness which is preferred for typical listening versus background listening. I occasionally listen to music laying down on a couch with the music playing in the 60 or 70 db range. Can’t sleep because the dynamics, color and resolution of the performances keep me aware/awake.

It’s good to have a great audio system and room. More levels of enjoyment.

P.S. I was tested last year, at age 66, with a frequency range up to 16kHz, exceeding the typical 66 year old (limit of test equipment range).  I have avoided 100+db sounds all my life (except cap guns as a child), no rock concerts or using heavy equipment without hearing protection.  80db listening over 6+ decades did not negatively impact my hearing, minimum listening time is 2 hours nightly and up to 10 hours studying/reading in my teens and 20s. 

There is no one volume.  Brian Eno made recordings where he prefers 

the volume level to drop off completely.  Then there's Kuma's Corner, a bar in the Avondale neighborhood in Chicago where the proper volume is ear bleeding, brain damaging loud.  Fantastic burgers and beer and drinks choices.  Just bring earplugs and come on a warm night when you can sit outside.  You'll still need the earplugs though.

What is the proper loudness for listening?

                  Whatever floats YOUR boat.

Your age!

60-70’s on the Decibel Meter ap set on “C” for me. I guess I have young ears…80’s + just too much of a good thing and need to left to short stints.