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Decibel question

I have seen some posts about listening decibels. I have a Adcom 500 and Infinity Kappa 8's. At home I can only go up to 80 decibels before the warning lights go off. I was at a Uriah Heep show last night and turned on a decibel app on my phone. It didn't go above 90. I love the sound of my system especially after getting my Thorens TD160 turntable tuned up. Am I missing something not being able to listen to 100 plus? All of you on this site seem to be so much more into gear and equipment. I thought I had a handle on things. At 90 last night my ears were hurting and I couldn't talk to my friend next to me. I would really appreciate any of your expert opinions. Thanks again!!!
golden210

Showing 1 response by ghosthouse

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ghosthouse
4,296 posts
 
Am I missing something not being able to listen to 100 plus?
Hearing damage, maybe?

FWIW - I use a Radio Shack Sound Level Meter.
Set to C weighting and Slow response for a display of "average" dB levels at a given volume setting, 75 - 85 is typical at the listening position (around 10-12 feet from speakers). Loud but still comfortable for me is pushing the average to a more consistent 80-85 (same meter settings). At these levels, using Fast response for peaks, I see "typical" peak values of 90-95...and definitely still less than 100 dB.   What's very satisfactory for me might not be for you.  Can't speak to that (or whether your amp/speaker match is ideal).

Hope this gives you additional context.
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