Out of necessity I sit just 8 ft from my speakers (near field) in a room with plenty of acoustic treatments.

Over the years the system has been improved out of all recognition leading to a much more realistic presentation. This has the effect of bringing the performance into the room and with it a mixed blessing. Effectively it means that I am sitting 8ft from a female opera singer or rock band and most would agree this is not what we experience in reality.

In summary my speakers are verging on studio monitors and its very few people that get enjoyment over several hours with such a presentation. This is not about digital nasties or graininess but more the ability to relax in front of such a 'monitor' system.

Any tips or observations?

Thanks Chris