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The most important factor in soundstage imaging

Everybody wants a system that images well. There are  many discussions here positing equipment changes that will improve imaging. Some people think the magic wand is cables, others are sure it’s the preamp, and the ones that don’t think it’s preamps, think it’s amplifiers. And, of course, speakers are (correctly) mentioned. 

However, the single most important factor in audio stereo imaging, is increasing direct radiation and decreasing reflected radiation, by moving the speakers away from the back wall, and away from the side walls. 
phomchick

Showing 2 responses by n80

n80
2,133 posts
 
@steakster : Really? There's just no need. If you have something to say, say it. Otherwise, not helpful.

In my brief experience the largest impact on soundstage is speaker position but my system is already pretty well matched. 

Having said that, 'get them away from the walls' is not what works for my system. The speakers aren't right up against the walls but closer than most conventional wisdom usually recommends.
n80
2,133 posts
 
@whart :    "Even with a good system, well set up in a room, a lackluster recording, mastering, etc. will sound very disappointing"

Agreed and wonder why this isn't always mentioned first. As I understand it, to have a good sound stage there has to be intention on the part of the engineers/producers. If they don't make that effort and know what they are doing then sound stage will be lacking or if not lacking, a matter of circumstance. And it seems like tweaking a system using a poor recording would be frustrating and counterproductive.

So it seems like the first point of advice would be to start with a good recording. I've got The Who's first album. It is in mono. It is not my sound stage reference recording.
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