Bye Bye Big speakers!

Interesting article here in http://rollingstone.com/ about how the labels are mastering their new CD's to cater to an audience that is increasingly using earbuds instead of stereos to listen to their music. It seems the emphasis is on increasing the levels to the point where high spots and low all sound the same...LOUD!! Do I have your attention now?!!!
I guess my question is: Is this the inevitable result of a nation of people who are progressively going deaf because of over-amplified sound? Is sign language going to become the new international means of communication? Should I throw all of my disposable income into Beltone(R) hearing aids?!!

Another interesting point in this article is the use of mastering software to "alter" sound. There was a commercial not too long ago, where the engineers in the studio were so busy enjoying Product X, that they failed to realize they had not adjusted the levels on the board for the latest "teen sensation" who was busy making dogs howl in the other room. As soon as they realized their mistake, they reset the board and she went from sounding like Paris Hilton to Christina Aguilera in about two seconds! There is a lot more truth than fiction in that commercial unfortunately and it is a direct result of the publics' desire for artists that are not only aurally but visually stimulating as well. If the artist looks good, we can always make them sound good, is the attitude that the labels are taking. It's gotten to the point that most of the legends from the past wouldn't even get in the front door today because they don't have the "complete package".

What are your thoughts on today's music? Let me know.