What is the proper loudness for listening?


Paul McGowan via YouTube claims that each room, system and recording has a specific sound level at which music sounds most "real"

I've noticed this myself listening to my 3 different systems set up in differing rooms. Thought I was crazy to think so but I guess maybe I'm not?

Also, have notice in smaller listening rooms that lower maximum volume levels sound more real.  Going too high on volume in a small room just overloads it and results in distortion

Any comments?

bobbydd

Bravo barts, I agree. My system sounds best at 90-100db and does it easily at about 25 watts a channel. The key is very dynamic and bass heavy music. To each his own, but what I have come to expect from music is a connection that can only be had at higher volumes 80-100 dbs. As you said, the music and your ears will tell you what is enough.

80-85 db is as loud as I go and I'm happy to listen at way lower levels than that at night when the ambient noise level is lower.

@chester_bunger Sure! I have the NIOSH SLM app on my iPhone and iPad. I’m sure they make one for Android. I think it works well.