I'm using the VR-1's not VR-2's. I'll take a couple of photos of the room that should show mostly what I'm dealing with.
Until then, the speakers are about 9' apart on either side of a bay window. I have a chair about 10' centered on the opposite wall.
All the 8th Nerve treatments are up. Tomorrow I will be getting some blinds and curtains up on the windows.
I have a fairly large antique mirror in this room that can be removed if it's causing real problems. So far I haven't heard them but, I haven't experimented.
The Ref 1's will be used for comparison when Tsunami visits with his Diluceo's. That way at least a second set of ears will be around to confirm what I'm hearing. I'll invite others as the time grows closer.
The Ref 1's will be for sale but, not for 750.
-C
C,
Based on your room dimensions being 12 x 12' (IIRC), not counting the window section, here are my recommendations...
I would pull the speakers 2' away from the front wall, maintain the 9' distance between the speakers (or lower it to about 8'), and setup your seating position 7-8' away from the speakers. From there, experiment with different degrees of toe-in, from straight ahead, to directly on-axis. Also, try moving the setup, left or right, 0.5-1' off center (depending on the distance you have between the speakers, as you do want room between the speaker and the side walls).
DEFINITELY take that mirror out of the room, and treat the windows and that bay area. And lastly, considering the small size of your room, and close distance to the back wall (or any wall really), I would recommend using some heavy diffusion or absoption directly behind your listening position.
Please note these are just my personal recommendations, based on the size of your room, and not speaker specific.
As far as the speakers go, IMO the Ref 1's are on the neutral side. They are extremely revealing, and just pass through what they are fed. I have heard the Ref 1's range from being neutral, to warm and "musical", to even being bright (due to a poor room, setup, and gear). It does seem like your results are partly room and placement dependent, but it could also be gear related. Hopefully you can try the Ref 1's again when you get the rest of the cables. The Pioneers tend to be on the bright and analytical side, but I am unsure of how much change Dan's mods make. I also have yet to hear the Minimax, although John and Mad Dog will be able to hear it matched with the Ref 1's shortly.
All in all, all that matters is that you end up with the sound that
you like...and I wish you the best of luck!
