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The stereo room and HT room have been purpose built to co-exist. And the old adage about the ROOM being the last frontier or the most influential factor is TRUE, very TRUE.
It's not easy being an audiophile. Once you finally get that perfect (or near-perfect) pair of speakers, you've got to find a good location for them in your room, along with your other furniture. Did you build your room around your stereo, or do you prefer your stereo to fit into your mixed-use room?
It also doubles as my study. Deco tip to fellow audiophiles: fully stocked bookshelves (wall to wall) may not be as effective as a dedicated absorbtion/deflection setup, but it does come rather close. It also looks a whole lot better.
This is my first house, so I didn't have a choice as to the room layout. But we are looking to build a new one, so this time I can get the type of room I need. Although with a really good pair of speakers (VR-6's) I don't think it matters, as long as there is some sound-absorbing material somewhere.
I would love to be able to afford a large home with a dedicated soundroom, but cannot. My living room must suffice for audio, video, entertaining, relaxation, guest quarters (on the sofa), and often dining. While I have been able to achieve respectable sound in my room, I know that "reference" sound quality is beyond my means at this time. I suspect that MOST audiophiles are in the same boat.
My listening room was constructed according to recommendations set forth in the Master Handbook of Accoustics by F. Alton Everest and is entirely separate from the house. Many expensive hi-fi systems are severely compromised by poor room accoustics!