My listening room in the garden is about 9' X 7' so I listen at about 6', room is treated with absorption panels at first reflection points on walls and ceiling and behind my sofa. As said no reflections to muddy the waters but I do need to sit back on the sofa as sitting upright on the edge of the sofa when adjusting settings the bass drops off. As for " mechanical sounds " not even with 99db drivers. I listen at 75-85db mostly and long sessions don't give fatigue.