A method by an electronic device for controlling a frequency response of audio output includes: receiving an audio signal at the device; estimating a sound pressure level of the audio signal based on one or more attributes or settings of the electronic device and/or the audio signal; generating values of an adaptive loudness control curve along a range of frequencies, wherein the adaptive loudness control curve is generated based on a difference between values of an equal loudness curve at the estimated sound pressure level along and values of an equal loudness curve at a reference sound pressure level; filtering the audio signal using values of the adaptive loudness control curve; and controlling output of the filtered audio signal as an audio output having substantially the same loudness along the range of frequencies.