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Speaker positioning: why do audiophiles neglect this so much?

Went to a recent seminar featuring Jim Smith, well known author of the book  "Get Better Sound"  and hi fi set up guru.

The basic gist of the discussion was that the most important elements of a high end stereo installation are listening position and speaker positioning, in that order.  The actual hardware (speakers, amplifiers, source, cables etc) are of less importance relatively speaking.

Yet it is clear from this web site and it's contents, that set up is discussed much less than the actual hardware.

When I look at the Virtual Systems page on site, I'm estimating that, maybe, 10% of the systems posted are close to well set up.  Thus, hardly any of the featured hardware is performing close to it's maximum potential.

Shame, and why is it so?  Not sexy enough to talk about system set up in depth?  Lack of knowledge?  Or is it simply too hard to do and too complex a subject?

Just my 2 cents ...

bobbydd

Showing 1 response by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
6,477 posts
 

From my review of systems they are frequently located in duel function rooms, dens, living room… etc where aesthetics are of greater priority than sound. When shared the guy can buy more and more expensive stuff but not mess up the room decor, well other than putting too much stuff in it. Or, too small dedicated room and the desire for a grand system capable of filling a small auditorium.
 

I have done this. I wanted to be a mountaineer when in high school… I saved up for a sleeping bag good to -20F, perfect for Nepal. I spent so many nights over the years sweating myself to sleep in Colorado… Big dreams, modest reality..

 

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