If Audiophiles care about sound, then why so few threads on acoustics


... and so many on cables?

I am sure there are 10 if not 50 times more posts on cables too?

I would hope that as audiophiles we could agree that acoustics are far more important than cables. A cable may (or should) make a fraction of a db change. Acoustics can make several db changes (or more).  A cable may have some impact on clarity or soundstage (and many can rightfully debate that). Acoustics absolutely will have an impact on soundstage.

So what is the reason? 
  • Is it because acoustics are "hard", i.e. you really have to put some thought into it? 
  • Are acoustics not sexy enough? 
  • Is it because they are often unattractive?
  • Is it because they carry much in the way of bragging rights (at least with many audiophiles)?
  • Do they not provide enough "retail therapy"?
  • Most audiophile really don't understand much about acoustics and can't contribute?
  • The difference between those who understand acoustics and those that don't is substantial for people are fearful of wading into discussions?

Interested in people's thoughts. People will drop thousands on a cable, $10K on an amp, or turntable, but I don't see anywhere near that spend on acoustics in most cases.
heaudio123
Always appreciate the well thought out replies Duke!  The comment I made below was mainly a response to a previous post that was made "railing" w.r.t. potential phase issues with speakers, while claiming some speakers are so good, that they don't need a treated room. The point I was trying to make, perhaps in too few words, is that "perfect" phase alignment of drivers in a speaker can be effectively ruined by reflections (of indeterminate frequency response and timing), especially in a "bad" room.

Unless you are sitting nearfield, there can be more energy in reflections than directed.... guess what reflected energy does to timing? "

Post removed 
Wonderful methodology discussed here for those who wish to maximize mediocre performance of an audio system. It won't approach upper end performance, but one can always pretend they have obtained it. 

I am dealing with this now. I have a dedicated theater room.  B&W CM8 s2 front LR and C, 2 B&W ASW 610, B&W DS3 in SR LR, B&W CWM663 S LR, B&W CCM663 in the ceiling.  Denon AVR X5200W.  Room is basically 200sqft and rectangular.  188” long x 135” tall x 135” wide.  Thick carpet floors, and leather theater seating.  Walls and ceilings are Sheetrock.

 I am looking at GIK because they are recommended here, their product is quality, and pricing is reasonable.

I Have $1,500 to spend on Acoustics right now.  GIK is recommending all 244 on side walls, and Monster Bass Traps rear walls. To start.  Next phase will be front wall and ceilings.

i am worried the room will be like a black hole for sound.  I would like to add some Scatter Plates now.  I was thinking 2 on the side walls (1 on each side rear), and 1-3 on the back wall.  There will be 5 total panels on the rear wall.

would love to hear your recommendations.

douglas_schroeder
Wonderful methodology discussed here for those who wish to maximize mediocre performance of an audio system. It won’t approach upper end performance, but one can always pretend they have obtained it.

>>>>Yeah sure, pal.