I have no doubt that your new speakers will sound phenomenal. There's something truly special about the sound produced by 7 to 8-foot tall speakers that's simply unmatched.
Our perception of sound varies significantly at different volume levels. This variance can be even more pronounced with large, multi-driver speakers. Without sophisticated dynamic EQ systems that adjust frequency response based on volume, and highly efficient driver designs that maintain dynamism even at very low levels, listeners might notice a lack of vibrancy at softer volumes.
Many high-end tower speakers are engineered with larger rooms and higher volumes in mind. Their voicing and overall design often cater to these conditions rather than background listening. Moreover, large speakers interact more substantially with the room, especially in terms of bass response. This interaction becomes more evident at higher volumes, contributing to that "fantastic" sound you're anticipating. At lower volumes, however, room interaction is less perceptible.
Large multi-driver speakers excel at producing high sound pressure levels (SPL) without distortion, which is ideal for loud listening. But at lower volumes, not all drivers may be fully engaged, potentially diminishing the perceived dynamics. Additionally, the complex crossover designs in tower speakers, designed to distribute frequencies among multiple drivers, are typically optimized for higher listening levels where all drivers are fully active. At lower volumes, some drivers may not receive sufficient signal to operate optimally.
When you audition your new speakers in your space at various SPL levels, you'll quickly discern if they might benefit from a finely tuned "loudness" curve that automatically reduces as volume increases. This feature implemented effectively by RME, can greatly enhance the listening experience especially at background music levels.
