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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. 
128x128phomchick
tomcarr
1,468 posts
 
OP- you've gotten lots of good info from the above posters to work with. Jim (tomic601) has reminded me to mention to you what he and I both consider an essential guide to get the best possible sound from your system and that is Jim Smith's book Get Better Sound. Best $ you will ever spend to get results you didn't think were possible. Absolutely indispensable, IMO.

Tom
harrylavo's avatar
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harrylavo
341 posts
 
I think phomchick and others focusing on speaker placement and sound treatment are right on ..... I've been successful in several different spaces when I've had the flexibility to optimize.  In a living area, not so easy, but usually one can figure out how not to screw it up badly if you know what your are doing.

As to electronics, it seems to come from transparency, and that is mostly a factor in the quality of the passive components and age of the parts.

My 2 cents.
hifidream's avatar
hifidream
134 posts
 
@rodman99999 I plan on adding BACCH for Mac. Check it out on their site. I already have my music server set up on the exact device they spec (Mac Mini 2012 maxed out). It’s a software interface for the cost of one high end component you can get BACCH into your system. Yes the stand alone DSP Processor is pricey. Many spend the price on the software version on cables alone. 

Thanks,
Steve
rodman99999
6,003 posts
 
@hifidream-  Thanks for the heads-up.  I don't use a server, but- I'm considering it.  I'll be looking into that software.
tecknik
481 posts
 
Everything is important, start from the fundamentals like power, from the transformer to the wires in wall, outlet, PC conditioning, components, IC,s , SC, speaker placement, isolation ect.

IT,S ALL IMPORTANT.
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