[quote name='JapanAxe' timestamp='1451833515' post='2943786']
When I ran my own band, we never played so loud that I had to put earplugs in. I believe that is the optimum setup at which the OP is hinting.
[/quote]
This is where the argument comes in about low volumes being perfectly acceptable for a folk band but when it comes to a rock or metal band it just doesn't have the same impact at low volumes.
I think regardless of genre there is always a point where can get too loud.
I still can't see any negatives towards wearing ear plugs though.
The scenario stated in the OP seems to really be aimed towards people who want to listen to the same volume regardless of ear protection. Which seems a rather amateurish mistake to me (I say that as someone who is very amateur!).