How can I improve this listening environment? This photograph was taken from my listening position.
Soon I will be adding a pair of B&W 800D speakers with matching Classe M400 monoblock amps. I want to be sure the room allows the rest of the system to function at it's best.
The rooms dimensions are roughly 23 x 22 x 8-feet. But there are 4 wide openings to other spaces which makes it a bit hard to say what the dimensions really are.
There are a lot of hard surfaces; large windows on the back wall (facing south) and hardwood floors.
I'm considering adding drapes. Any other ideas on how to improve the room and keep my wife happy?
I will agree with the above poster, that while it is a little difficult to judge from the picture the speakers look like they could be moved a bit further apart. If you are upgrading, I would encourage you to take your time and get to know several brands of products without going in with preconcieved ideas and make damn sure whatever you buy speaks to you personally. Some systems and products will startle you with a lot of detail and sound impressive in a short demo but the critical question will be which can you envision best giving you lasting interest. For me this is nearly always a physical feeling on some level.
