Speaker Placement

[bluemeanies]

The addition of isolation platforms for my speakers changed the overall sound in my 2channel system. I have a cement floor but it it has carpets with padding. Nothing plush. It is a commercial grade long lasting carpet. I had spent a few hours with speaker placement before the Auralex platforms which enabled me to enjoy a 3dimensional sounds with most recordings, especially with classical, jazz and female Vocalists. Also in the rock venue PINK FLOYD SHINES!
However with the platform the dimensions changed but only in small numbers. Nonetheless it was noticeable that there was something missing.
I spent only an hour to realign the speakers on the platform and it did make a difference. I am back although I will say the ISO platforms could be move another inch forward. That would mean removing the speakers since they are 93lbs each.
I intend to re-evaluate in the next few days but at this moment my system sounds so sweet.

I bring this up b/c I do believe speaker placement is imperative to a good sounding 2channel system, just as much as acoustics and equipment.
Which is the force behind a good sounding system?
The recording?
Pre-amp?
Receiver?
Acoustics?
Speaker placement?
Cables?
Or All of the above

[bitsandbytes]

Fully agree that speaker placement is very critical. Believe that if they are placed incorrectly enough, they can make great speakers sound very ordinary. The location of the primary listening position is important - and the kind of furnishings and their locations is very service affecting too.

Had read an article from GIK Acoustics saying the average room size for their customers was 15' x 12' x 8'. In such a room - or smaller - bass trapping and diffusion are especially vital.

Choosing the right speakers is the most important choice in my eyes. The quality of the recording itself sets the ceiling on how good the sound can be. A poorly recorded song with shrill higher frequencies is not going to sound great - and will be lacking in detail, dynamics, and imaging.

Everything you listed does affect the sound a lot. The DAC and how it's implemented, the choice of amp, the turntable and cartridge, and preamp are all important.

Choice of sub(s), their equalization, and how well they blend with your speakers is significant.

A short answer is that everything is important, but the million dollar question always seems to be "what now?"

Walt