Absorb or Diffuse Behind Listening Position?


Hey All. Starting to finally treat my listening room. My listening position is up against the rear wall (head probably being spaced about 12" from the wall when sitting down). I’m putting 2’x4’x2" absorbing panels behind the speakers, but what should I choose for behind the listening position? Diffusion or absorption?

There are al lot of windows in the room, with horizontal louvered shades which act as pretty decent diffusion; and a big built-in bookshelf on one side wall also helping with diffusion. On either side of the wall behind the listening position are a pair of glass French doors, untreated at this point, and the room sounds a lot better when they are left open to the big room on the other side of the wall. I haven’t tackled the ceiling yet either. Thanks!
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xsumadoggie
A few more numbers, size of the room.

Why so close to the back wall?

Regards
I would diffuse behind your speakers/system and absorb behind your listening position. I also prefer diffusing on the ceiling.
The ASC Matrix panel is designed for when you are close up against the rear wall. It was tested by ear and has a combination of absorption and diffusion. https://www.acousticsciences.com/products/matrix-panel
I've used the 'Live End/Dead End' concept in all my listening spaces. Nothing behind speakers and absorption panels on wall behind listening position. First reflections are the strongest and the ones that need to be addressed. Avoid overdamping!
Here is a room calculator to find where your first reflection points are and the size of absorption panels you’ll need. Just punch in your measurements in inches, feet or meters.

https://www.acoustic.ua/forms/calculator4.en.html