Eric, to answer your last question, room dimensions. Since you are looking, I suggest that you consider the optimal room dimensions discovered by U of Salford's School of Acoustics. They have done the simulations, which are available to the public.
They found that most rooms are bad, a quarter are OK, and a few percent are good. There are a number of 'islands' of 'good' ratios which yield first class results, at three room sizes. Adding some book shelves and record shelves gives some flexibility for adapting an existing room. Good luck!
They found that most rooms are bad, a quarter are OK, and a few percent are good. There are a number of 'islands' of 'good' ratios which yield first class results, at three room sizes. Adding some book shelves and record shelves gives some flexibility for adapting an existing room. Good luck!