Shocking 3D sound in 2 channel

Mr Moon- An easy case to make, in general(ambiance recovery/vinyl vs CD). I'm guessing your friend has quite a record collection? Would they be interested in adopting a new son?

Rod,
He does indeed and I've discovered more than one or 2 newer bands/artists thanks to his generous nature. ;^)

All the best m8,

I really only have had this phenomena happen a few times. I have Maggies 1.7, Dyn C1 sigs, Harbeth SHL5 as well as tube and SS amps. I love them all and I love the hobby. However, this ultra real 3D has only happened with my Harbeths (on Exposure amplification). Harbeths are said to be easy to place but I found them to be ultra critical. Anyway, not trying to open a Harbeth can of worms - just pointing out that they do this for me and they are not know as resolution champs.

The other system that does this for me is at my grimy computer desk in my garage. The speakers are $40 Altec Lansing 2.1 computer speakers playing off my computer. The weak link in the chain is every link in the chain! There is nothing in the path that I would say is admirable. Also, the speakers are positioned almost at my sides (more like a 20 degree angle. I think this case is lust me sitting conveniently in a good spot between the two channels, however marginal their quality.

With my system it happens with every use does not sound like there on or sound emanating from loudspeaker just a sound stage wall to wall front to back image in center clear as a bell. One issue with conventional dynamic designs or dipoles is the room interaction this obscures imaging. Also improper time alignments can cause image to blur. I even get foley effects behind head or have image spin intact behind listener.

If I can't get a solid, centered image from a mono source or an intended center solo voice in a stereo mix, the speakers aren't set up correctly and/or there's a phase problem.

If I can't get the speakers to sonically disappear, I don't want them.