I'm beginning to agree with @georgehifi, although not the general tone which is somewhat offensive, that having no equipment between the speakers improves sound quality. Unfortunately, given the layout and other furniture in my room I don't have the luxury to totally remove the equipment from the middle, but I recently got a new rack which sits very low and is much narrower compared to what I had before. I also pulled the speakers further out so there is nothing in between the pair. I can definitely notice the increased soundstage depth. I'm quite sure removing the equipment from the middle altogether will yield even better soundstage but I don't have that option.
BTW, my audio rack is made by Z Audio Custom Racks. They are very reasonably priced and look and feel amazing. Highly recommended!