Speaker Imaging - Do you hear a line, or do you hear an arc??

Aside from the numerous variables (all of which have already been mentioned and discussed), optimally, Yes, an "arc" with depth that more-or-less resembles an orchestra, a classical chamber group, a jazz ensemble, folk and Delta blues music. As for rock, it’s so heavily amplified and listened to at such high SPL, I’ve never noticed all that much of a sound stage: just a wall of sound.

a lot of it depends on the recording. I have Lynn Stanley at 45rpm and she is in front of  the speakers with the band behind her. Some of my D2D recordings do the same. 45 rpm reissues of The Doors are like being in the studio with them - listen to Jim whispering on Riders on the Storm. 

With the SACD Gaucho by Steely Dan, the band is in the living room.  Speakers are Martin Logan Clarities, Magnepan DWMs crossed over at 75hz to 2 10's and a 12 in three boxes.  I recently put a 1/2 inch lift in the rear of the MLs, brought the soundstage from a 4 to 5 foot height to about 6 foot height now.  The MLs are 5 feet from the rear wall and 4 foot from right sidewall.  Left speaker side wall is about 18 foot away in the dining area.  The MLs are slightly toed in and the DWMs are on the inside.


The goal was clear, coherent sound with decent bass at any volume.  I have two musician friends that sit mesmerized by the SACD's presentation.  The journey has been long and satisfying. 

too busy listening to the music

Speaker Imaging - Do you hear a line, or do you hear an arc??

Mines seen not heard, and if good should be seen as a 3 dimensional picture in front of you, with height, width (even outside the speakers) and depth, in my case 15ft back as I have no wall behind the speakers, or equipment racks between the speakers.