Although loudness is subjective, enough tests, measurements and evaluation have been conducted to provide a fairly accurate understanding of how most people interpret loudness or volume. Not surprisingly, maximum levels of acoustically generated music fall within the first two categories, nearby thunder being in the last. The advent of electronic amplification systems has propelled music into the deafening and even painful categories. This has now become an issue. One side of the issue is our concept of pleasure.
Many people find extremely loud music to be pleasing.
The adrenalin rush initiated by the high SPL heightens the excitement of the music itself. Powerful bass rhythms are literally felt in the body. Sharp piercing melody lines cut deep into the soul. We are blanketed in a wash of energy. These are new experiences in the history of music.