Walk-in soundstage


Coupled with his Weiss DAC 204 and T+A DAC 200, Mr. Steve Huff claimed to have experienced the so-called "walk-in soundstage" when using the Lumin U2 as the streaming transporter. This refers to a deeply immersive, three-dimensional stereo image where the listener perceives the musical space as so realistic and spacious that it feels as if one could physically walk into the soundstage.

This level of presentation is notably different from the more common “layered” sound field that many average listeners or reviewers report—where the sound is merely projected in front of the listener with some layering or spatial envelopment.

I'm curious how many of you have also experienced this effect in your own systems and listening spaces. If you're open to sharing, I'd love to hear about the components and setup that helped you achieve it.

  

lanx0003

Yes but only with my analog system and omni speakers (Shahinian Obelisks). I've yet to get to that level digitally but it could be that I need a tube DAC vs the Pontus II I'm currently running which has great width but lacks in immersive depth. 

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Unless one lives in a very hot climate, I can’t imagine placing one’s system inside a walk-in...

 

 

+1 @glennewdick 

In many years of listening to assorted systems - in dealers’ showrooms, audio shows and private homes - I’ve experienced ’a walk-in soundstage’ only with one system.   I could literally get out of the listening chair - from sitting to standing - and walk a few steps toward the speakers - before the illusion collapsed.   It was at Rick Becker’s house, a long-time reviewer for EnjoyTheMusic.   (Rick is a very gracious host - and very genuine with his observations.)

The phenomenon was actually like walking on to a stage.  Quite remarkable - and much fun to listen to.  A well-engineered recording provided the same effect with both LP & CD.  Both with classical and pop/rock music.   Average or poorly engineered recordings did not have the same effect.  

The system was set-up on the long wall on a 15ft x 40ft room with a cathedral ceiling.  The Kharma Ceramique 2.2 speakers were at least 6 ft out from the front wall.   Tube preamp & tube amp.  Much attention to clean power and quality cabling. 

I’ve heard many other systems that had a wonderful soundstage with wide and deep layering.  That alone is quite an accomplishment.

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Steve Huff is prone to hyperbole.   I don’t follow his reviews any longer.