Sound Stage and Imaging

I would think that an open baffle would produce poor imaging as the rear reflections bounce around the room "blurring" things.

I use a modified Heil AMT and find that blocking off the rear wave improves imaging.  Others have reported similar.

BTW, if anyone wants to hear stellar imaging and soundstage, you are welcome to come hear our creation.  I and others have never heard speakers image like this. 

We are in Orange County, CA, and if any Stereophile writers are reading this..., come on by!  I know some of you live in So Cal.

Just crossed my mind thinking about open baffle and reflecions: how does NEAR FIELD (reflections outside 'ear sensiivity range' compare with respect to imaging and sound stage? Guts feeling: creat imaging (pin point location) but poor 'sound stage' (no artificial 'echo' mixed in to inflate sound stage)?

Given that you only have 2 feet off the wall for speakers, open baffle will likely not work for you. Most open baffle speakers require 3 to 5 feet off front wall. Considering your placement limitations I encourage you to examine how “any” speaker you choose will image that close to the wall, with some exceptions exceptional imaging and soundstage require space around the speakers. You probably should of mentioned your setup limitations prior to seeking recommendations from other forum members. 

As far as conventional sealed enclosure subwoofers they can be integrated with OB speakers but it depends greatly on the quality off the sub and setting the sub/subs up correctly. Many OB speaker users do not believe that sealed subs can be integrated with OB without blurring the purity of the sound. I use a swarm setup to great effect but I’m considering selling them and buying an OB sub kit from GR Research. 

Regarding Toddalin’s comments, I politely want to point out that his condemnation of OB speakers is due to a lack of experience with them. 

...And I would love to be shown otherwise. But I know of nobody with an OB system. As I said, I’m in Orange County, CA and would love to exchange listening pleasures.

...And, anyone is welcome to come by my place and hear what soundstage and imaging are all about.