There are a number of reasons why the spells buffed in this update did less damage.

1. Most of the spells have a CC component.
2. Most of the spells are of a damage type that is not as easily resisted.
3. None of the spells provide a reflex save (evasion).

Enemies that use sonic spells are now more deadly than ever.

(Combat): Famine Reaper's greater shout hit you for a total of 661 points of sonic damage after 46 were blocked by energy resistance.
This was 1 player, R3 heroic Thrill of the Hunt. With 50 MRR, 15% absorption, 46 resistance, and a successful save I took 661 damage.

(Combat): Howler's sonic blast hit you for a total of 85 points of sonic damage after 46 were blocked by energy resistance.
Same quest.

These were never meant to be DPS spells, but here we are. Next thing you know our hypnotic pattern will spit out disintegration damage, or maybe they will make our fireballs encase enemies in sticky webs.