The listening constraints have been lifted

Same here— that's why I'm into headphones in a big way. When everyone goes to sleep, that's when I get rocking. Check out www.head-fi.org to learn more about headphones and headphone amps from a very nice and knowledgeable bunch of headphone geeks. You can put together a world-class cans & amp system for much less $$$ than a pair of top flight speakers and an amp to power them.

I hear you loud and clear:) Not only that, but I've literally have had to build a cage around my components because my 14 month old boy is so interested in pressing the buttons to see the lights change! Even further, I have to keep the grills on my Merlins because I caught him trying to shove a soother into the front port, which is at eye level to him.
My wife is the one asking to turn down the stereo, and no amount of science (i.e. pulling out my RS digital SPL meter and showing her that it is only playing at 70 dB) will persuade. Thus, the music is usually played as background. When they do leave, I immediately get a few CDs that I want to play at a "normal" listening level (~80 dB).
Why does it seem that only I make the compromises?

Regards,

I have a four year old son and some times, he likes to sit and listen with me. If you had only trained you children to enjoy the same hobby as you when they were younger. My son and I will sit and listen for enjoyment, but I do have the same constraint when I need to do a critical listening session. I am however fortunate enough that my listening room is on the back side of the house, so I can listen at a pretty reasonable level after my son goes to bed. I don't have to worry about my wife, after the little one goes to bed, she usually reads at night before we go to bed.

I know to turn my music down when my wife pulls into the driveway. While this can be quite annoying we must all remember that annoying music...that which we hate....has the same effect on those who can't stand loud music in the home. So, even though my wife and I do enjoy the same music, my playing it loud becomes just as hard on her as if it was me having to listen to the kind of music I can only tolerate.

Still, when I driving home and I am in the mood for some really good music, I must admit that this is the only time I am anxious to see if my wife is not home.......

Do you guys know how people talk about how their amplifier makes their speakers "sing"... it only happens at certain levels. I was first thrilled that I didn't have to attend the shower with my wife and girls!!! Then, my son had to work, I was pumped. I followed Keb' Mo' with some Muddy Waters... My speakers were singing!