Analog invites you to turn up the volume

+1, @mitch2 on dynamic range.

There is a +/-10dB difference between my analog and digital output. I don’t listen very loud since I am only 8ft away from my speakers.

I believe what you have missed is tactile nature of vinyl playback and its unique sound characteristics that often invites this kind of engagement - turning the volume up and fully diving into the music. I find it very fascinating how the different media formats can shape not just the sound but also the way we interact with and enjoy music.

@mickeyb

First off, are you listening to lossless files (Tidal/Qobuz) or compressed files (Pandora/Spotify). Digital compression can indeed cause music to sound harsh or dull. Some recordings or remasters can also have overly compressed dynamics leading to listening fatigue. Are you experiencing this across the board with all digital recordings or select few? 

@richardbrand 

Higher volume often reveals more detail and dynamic range, making music feel more engaging. Conversely, achieving a lower noise floor is far more critical in our environment. You can uncover a whole new layer of details just by lowering noise floor thus allowing us to play music at a sweet spot where clarity and enjoyment peak. 

Level-matching is indeed crucial for fair comparisons, as louder playback can skew perceptions of quality. Live music volumes, of course, are a whole other level, often exceeding what most home systems or listeners can comfortably achieve!