Answers | Q&A (Week of 9.8.25)

Perceived tonal balance at different listening levels.

Question:

If one compares the different equal loudness contours it is clear that different sound pressure levels produce a different perceived tonal balance. In a domestic environment it is sometimes impossible to play music at concert loudness. Therefore, wouldn't a frequency response that is midful of the difference between equal loudness curves at different levels produce a more natural result of tonal balance at lower listening levels? For example, a frequency response that is the result of the subtraction of the 70dB equal loudness contour from the 90dB one I would think would better represent the perceived tonal balance of an orchestra playing at 90dB when the playback volume is 70dB. To be clear, I am not referring to an equal loudness mindful volume control (which I know exists on certain components) but a passive speaker design with a frequency response as stated.

—EVANGELOS POULOS

Answer:

The simple answer is “yes”.

To state it clearly, it might be good to have some adjustment of…