When I first bought our livingroom TV (about 8 years ago) we didn't get one with the constant volume feature (bummer). When we'd watch programs we'd have the volume at about 1/4-1/2 volume level. Now for programs we have to crank the volume darn near max because they're getting softer sounding and the commercials have gotten so loud I have to go to about 1/8 or less volume to get the same noise level, so I know it's not just our hearing.

I swear the next tv we get is having the constant volume feature on it.