The Listening Chair - What type do you use?


What type of chair do you use for critical listening? I've always believed that one with a low back is best because a high back would alter the sound back to your ears. But I've also realized that comfort also will make ones listening experience more enjoyable. I’m thinking of going more in the direction of chairs replacing my couch and I’m having a difficult time finding ones with low backs that would allow one to seat in for hours at a time. Is low back seating really that important? How many of you in search of the absolute sound have sacrificed a bit of sonic performance for more comfortable seating?
islandflyfisher

Showing 1 response by almarg

You may want to consider the Wassily Chair, which is what I use.

Looks like its current price is $3108, available at Knoll Studio. I believe there are replicas available at lower prices, under other names.

As with the Ox Chair that Marco referred to, the back and the bottom are both angled toward the rear, which results in excellent back support. Obviously, though, there is no head or neck support, which may not be ideal for long listening sessions.

The seating height the chair provides is significantly lower than in an average chair. You would want to consider that carefully in relation to the height of your speaker's drivers. I'm 5'9" and my ear level is about 39" above the floor when I am seated in the chair.

The chair, of course, is considered to be a design classic, and is in the Museum of Modern Art.

Regards,
-- Al