Mickey Mouse Ears


Let's do an experiment.  While listening to your music system from your ideal seating position, cup both of your hands and place them behind your ears facing the speakers.  Do you like it?  Does it sound better?  There is no doubt it sounds different.  It is not like trying to determine if there is a difference between one cable and another.  I think maybe it does sound better, at least in some qualities.  It's louder for sure.  It's kind of like putting on headphones.  A lot of people probably think headphones sound better than speakers.
If it does sound better in any way, why has no one invented audiophile Micky Mouse ears to wear on your head, too funny looking?  How about a high back chair with reflectors built into the headrest?  What do you think?  Should I run out and get a patent?


markinthedark
Years ago I was  in a sporting goods shop and they had a headset that did just what you described.  It was amazing how well they worked amplifying sound . They were meant to let you hear the sounds in the wilds.
Obviously just changes the listener's impression of the sound ambience in the room.
Could be good, could be bad, depends on the room.  No way to tell at the first kiss.
Ok now that the topic has been broached it’s worth discussing what is happening there when one clasps their hands behind their ears.  
Anybody not hear a difference?   It’s a rare tweak anyone can easily try anytime while listening. 
Need to try some more.  My recollection is added warmth through the midrange.  I think it is because those are the frequencies that MM ears seem to affect.  Also in the range our ears hear best. Could also be some ambience happening from the additional reflected sound.  
If you have hearing loss this works but if you want want natural sound it does not.