Sunfire: Holographic Imaging Opinions

Sonic Holography works best with speakers that present a very focused dispersion pattern. Designs that are bipolar, dipolar, omni, etc... won't work all that well. Having said that, i've got it and haven't messed with it in a LONG time.

I remember experimenting with it at my Aunt & Uncle's system back in about 1980 ( i think ) and the results were pretty "over-blown". The stage came WAY out into the room and was phenomenally wide on some recordings. This was the first time that i had ever heard anything like this and the effect was both amusing and amazing. Most people thought of it as being a "novelty" or one of "Sideshow Bob's" latest and greatest "gimmicks", but it really does work and can produce enjoyable results on some discs. The good thing about this is that you can use it or bypass it as the flip of the switch or push of a button. Sean
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I have used it since Bob Carver invented it (>15 years ago). I always leave it on. It spreads the soundstage from corner to corner in my room. It produces real images and ambience far outside the speakers. The only downside it that you muse sit exactly between the speakers and it does dilute the central vocals.

My first preamp was a Carver C-11 (it still does duty in my basement system). During the time that it was my primary preamp, I had the occassion to move a number of times. What I found was that even with all the other gear remaining constant, in some rooms the Sonic Holography made an improvement, and in others, it detracted. In my opinion, it has some merit, and is worth considering, although it will be room/gear dependant. I will say that in most of my locations, it sounded better with it off.