Home Video Asylum

TVs, VCRs, DVD players, Home Theater systems and more.

Phantom center w/o center speaker sounds better?

I've been experimenting with my center channel and in at least one test I have found that I prefer NOT having the center channel speaker but running the receiver/processor in 'phantom' center channel mode. At least this was the case with a Dolby Digital concert DVD - Norah Jones Live in New Orleans.

It was obvious to my ears that her voice was much 'clearer' and more 'present' without the center channel speaker. I wonder if this is often the case or could it be a mismatch in my center channel amplification vs the main front Left and Right channels? My main Left and Right channels go through a PS Audio HCA2 stereo power amp while the center channel is coming direct from the Denon 3803 receiver. Yes, I did level match all channels and even experimented with turning up/down the center channel level - but in the end, I preferred not having the center channel speaker at all. Also note that the center channel speaker in my system is of the same brand and closely matched with my left/right main speakers - they all share the exact same 8" driver with integrated 'coaxial' tweater.

Your thoughts and opinions please. Thanks!

Accuphase DP65V cdp - PS Audio PCA-2 Pre - Krell KSA50S - Tannoy D500 spkrs


This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:
  VH Audio  


Topic - Phantom center w/o center speaker sounds better? - AbeCollins 01:24:01 10/14/04 (6)


You can not post to an archived thread.