2. amps-preamps
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Listening volume

For the last couple days I have been typically listening at a lower volume. Typical volume (not peak) is now low to mid 80's (dB). Interestingly, peak still is high 90's maybe 100 dB. Before, I would listen at a typical good 10dB louder average. But peak was only a tad bit higher so I think I was clearly running into dynamic compression.

The real surise is that at these average lower dB levels, my soundstage is better defined in width and depth. Was dynamic compression limiting my soundstage? Anyone else ever run into this? I'm really puzzled by this-
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schubert
7,386 posts
 
Every speaker Has some limit where it will compress, My Totems are only speaker I ever saw where this limit is stated
in specs, for my small monitors its listed at 103 db.

Everyone runs into this, some just don't realize it.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,984 posts
 
There is a "perfect" volume for every room and system. Too low and you can't hear every little nuance, too loud and the room starts to interact more and the sound starts to "bounce" around, (reflection and refraction) and things become diffuse. I have found this to be true in almost room...except an anechoic chamber.
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Mofi, you describe the problem perfectly.
Sadly, I never could afford the custom made listening room I need.
Also, I never found a remote sensitive to dial it in either.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
If it's a solid state amp, it's possible that based on the speaker and amp sensitivity that the amp was clipping.

OTOH, I have also experienced what Mofi is talking about.
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