Quote Originally Posted by E-Stat
I think you'll find that your peak SPLs haven't changed unless you're simply choosing to push your amplifiers harder. I will agree, however, that cleaner systems sound "louder" while not exhibiting any increased sound pressure level. The reduction of noise components allows more signal to come through and provides greater dynamic range especially at the bottom where the "relative" loudness is apparently increased.

rw

I think you've nailed it.