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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 jhills

jhills
612 posts
 

I found that with detail to set up and positioning (using measurements and tape tape to mark changes) and by positioning with the tweeter section of my Maggies to the outside rather than inside, I was able to get very good and detailed imaging and a stable wide and deep stag - wether setting or standing, in or out of the favored listening position. If I change either or both speakers, even by 1/2", the imaging and stage, especially off axis, will somewhat diminish.

I agree with wolf_garcia, regarding your listening space being part of your home. I have no desire to turn my audio room into an anechoic chamber - it is a comfortable and integral part of my home, furniture and all. Since my floors are carpeted and ceilings soft fiber tile, about the only thing I needed to do was to cover the wall behind speakers with acoustic drapes and use one corner bass trap and it all looks, works and sounds great to me .....Jim

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