Psychological effects of volume control

Silly question perhaps, nevertheless, I'll ask the resident experts herein.

Would having to raise the volume at the pre-amp (in the OPs case) be the same if he had an *integrated amp*?

In my experience when an amp is at 12 or above, even when all source components are powered off, if I put my ear to the speakers tweeter I can hear enough of a "sizzle" to know with certainty the amp is powered on. There is a point where the volume can be lowered enough where the sizzle is inaudible. Isn't any amp distorting that much more as the volume raised? And if so, then why would it be desirable to raise the volume control instead of lowering it to achieve the same decibel level?

@shadorne 

I surmise you may not have subscribed to this thread. I'd be appreciative if you were to provide an answer to the questions I've asked in my previous posts herein. 

I appreciate that explanation @shadorne . In my case, my amp (Musical Fidelity M6si) is rated at >107dB S/N (‘A’ - weighted). If I use balanced input with volume at 9 (precisely), I usually get around 85db (average) of sound. Average meaning it fluctuates between 60db and 92db. Can this be used as an indicator to determine if I am getting the necessary dynamic range? (not listening to ravel’s bolero, but rock music)

I am using a Dawson DSM101N multi-meter to measure the SPL. Not a scientific instrument, but it is better than nothing. 

And yes, there are times I throttle up to say 10:30, and have produced 101db :)