Is louder better?

Yes, when you’re 25 and not planning to ever be 65. No, when you are 65 and cussing predisposing yourself to tinnitus when you were 25 listening to high volumes. Who knew you’d ever be getting that old? That kind of age is reserved for old people

Again, louder does wonders for speakers output. 
   Raises bass, and sound.    I play a bit louder to make the speakers sound their best.  

@skyscraper —true indeed

quiet music played loud please 

I like loud (90+db) but usually I listen more in the 70-80db (peak) volumes. It’s more comfortable over time. My system isn’t fatiguing at all. I am just bombarded by loud all the time. A little more mellow is good. And I totally disagree with “play at concert levels” thing... that will kill your ears faster than anything. I’m a professional drummer, so I am VERY familiar with loud. I always wear ear protection at concerts these days. We are only getting older and I like hearing with detail.