Laid back, or in-your-face?

I've always considered "laid back" to mean mellow, relaxed or less detailed and "forward" to mean just the opposite, but maybe I've been wrong in my assumption. Going by my definitions of "laid back" or "forward", I consider my system to be forward. At low to moderate volumes it provides nice detail and full body with a wide soundstage, and I like it. Upon cranking the volume to LOUD levels, the system starts to become fatiguing within a short time. I've begun to recognize the value of a more "laid back" system, but is it possible to have the best attributes of both without compromise? That's the question...and the ultimate Quest it seems to me.

Tvad, Perhaps at "LOUD" you are simply overdriving your room. Not difficult to do in a small to medium sized room.

Newbee, that's a definite possibility! :-) Are the candle holders supposed to dance across the table like that?

Tvad,

Yes, candle holders should 'dance' at higher volumes, the candles blow out when it gets loud!

Ken

I assume you mean that since you were surprised it sounded laid back last nite that it is usually more forward, as in something had changed?