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Can you have a huge 3D soundstage in a small room?

Ok I just came from a dealer where I listened to the Krell Resolution speaker and the sound stage was GIGANTIC. This is what Ive been trying to achieve in my room for years. The dealers room was quite large. I would say about 18w'x 25d'x 12'ceiling approximately. My room is 13'x 35'x 8'ceiling. The speakers have to go on the long wall. Right now I am using the Vandersteen 2CE Sig and I know that they need to go but am I ever going to get that huge holographic sound in my current room? I am willing to spend the money if it will work.

Thanks
braro
braro OP
87 posts
 
Zargon, Audiokinesis, I have tried many different locations and methods over the years. I have had the best results with the recomended Vandy placement according to their specs. Currently the 2CEs are almost 3 feet off the back wall, about 5 feet from the right side wall and 30 feet from the left side wall. There is about 12 inches behind the listening position to the back wall. Short wall placement is not an option. The room is carpeted. I would say that the room is bright because I have to turn the treb and mid adjustments down about 2 db to smooth things out. I will be investing in some wall treatments as soon as I get things sorted out. I am currently running

Wadia 861
Supratek pre amp
VTL MB 125 amps (upgrading soon to VTL MB 450)
Cardas Golden Cross interconect
Kimber Bifocal XL speaker cable
(2) Vandy 2WQ subs with model 5 xover

Thanks
jeff_jones
418 posts
 
I don't think you will ever get there in a 13' deep room.
siddh
345 posts
 
I have similar dimensions, but have the speakers situated on the 13 foot wall. The imaging is often outside of the speaker, given the material, of course, and the depth of soundstage is very good. I attempted placement similar to yours, but found much restriction in all areas that you are trying to improve on. Plus I was seated so close to the speakers.

The distance I now have is 3-4' from sidewalls, 8-9' from front, and nearly 20' from rear wall. The ceiling is a mere 7', which is the largest drawback. Yet, I am still obtaining a very musical presentation.

I have no experience with Vandi's, but I have heard complimentary discussion regarding imaging and disappearing.
nighthawk
259 posts
 
The only way to get close to what you want is to put the speakers on the short wall, 7-8 feet apart. Then pull the speakers well out from the wall, 5 feet or more, and treat the first reflection points on the side walls with absorptive material. I don't think you wanted to hear this, but it's the only way to achieve what you're looking for. Long wall placement in a narrow room will never create a deep soundstage.
aball
2,018 posts
 
I agree your speakers need to be on the short wall. I rarely audition a system that has a better soundstage than mine and my room is 14x15 so I think it is definately possible for you to get a terrific soundstage. It takes A LOT of experimenting though! It doesn't just fall out of the sky - unless you are way luckier than me! Arthur
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