Perfectionist
I have experienced exactly the same results you describe and have therefore always backed my listening chair as close as possible to the rear wall.
I always assumed that the "lean" sound you described might have been inherent to my favorite Magneplanars, but I notice you are not using planar speakers.
For me, in any case, close to the rear wall is a rule of thumb for basic placement, and I only move the position forward into the room to counteract any boominess.
(Nice system and room, by the way.)
1markr
If this is not possible for you, I hope you are still able to achieve happy results.
I cannot comment more specifically on rear wall treatments, but I have had everything from fireplaces to big windows and never thought that was a critical element.
I would think first reflections, closer to the speakers and especially on side walls should be more carefully controlled.
I would also think a lively rear wall might yield acceptable results for ambience and later reflections.
But I am not an expert so hopefully we will hear from others.
I have experienced exactly the same results you describe and have therefore always backed my listening chair as close as possible to the rear wall.
I always assumed that the "lean" sound you described might have been inherent to my favorite Magneplanars, but I notice you are not using planar speakers.
For me, in any case, close to the rear wall is a rule of thumb for basic placement, and I only move the position forward into the room to counteract any boominess.
(Nice system and room, by the way.)
1markr
If this is not possible for you, I hope you are still able to achieve happy results.
I cannot comment more specifically on rear wall treatments, but I have had everything from fireplaces to big windows and never thought that was a critical element.
I would think first reflections, closer to the speakers and especially on side walls should be more carefully controlled.
I would also think a lively rear wall might yield acceptable results for ambience and later reflections.
But I am not an expert so hopefully we will hear from others.