need some concepts please, boost the lower tones, avoid >0 db

Generally I like to boost my final sound outputs so they play at my right volume for middle volume settings on playbaqck devices.  Usually, I seem to need to hard limit (~-2 db). Then the volume is too low, even with the input boost.  If this was photography, I would just lift the shadows or middle tones.  I'm not finding the way to do that in sound.  The dynamics processor shows a curve, but that has NOT done the job.  I've messed with the other dynamics, to no success.  Anyone?  Is this a job for smart compression techniques?  Have not made that yet work ok either, but I am a rookie.  Working in EDM tracks.

Thanks !