It is important for me to be able to come close to live levels in my listening room although I don't often do it or really listen at those levels. My room is 30ft. x 40ft x 25ft. Playing something like Bonerama, Live in New York I've measured in excess of 130dB, eighteen feet in front of my speakers. Having a system that can do that makes it much more enjoyable at more reasonable listening levels. And yes, I wear my Walkers when testing at these levels for any length of time.
Does loudness play a part in your appreciation?
I wish it weren’t so but listening at high volume (around 70 decibels) tends to make me get more involved in the music.
How about you?