Wait wait wait...

What was set at 1/2 volume, the EP500? You shouldn't have ears left...

Unfortunately, I don't know enough about Pioneers to tell you about the large setting, but I suspect there are a number of different settings that play into this.

Did you do the full equalization calibration? If possible, turn off the equalization portion of it. You might like it better.

I am the Doctor, and THIS... is my SPOON!