there are split opinions on this point of stage. for me I think the lcd convey a "live" vibe while the arya convey a "studio" vibe. my mind just automatically thinks the sound of a live venue seems more open. the pads on the arya are stiffer and hold the sound source slightly further from the ear, so in that sense there's objectively more space and helps the staging. i didn't own the V2, but from what i've read, the SM sacrifice a little of the V2 stage for better overall balance.