Ultimately, there are pros and cons to each and you’re very lucky if you get to experience both.
Stadium Cons: It really depends on where you are. I think stadium shows would suck if you’re in the stands, or too far back in the GA. The sound turns to shit, everything is so far away etc. I’ve been really close for my three U2 stadium shows, but further back in stadium gigs that I haven’t cared about, and it’s been rubbish. But if you’re up close…
Stadium Pros: The band lifts for them, definitely. I think that’s partly because they have to - everyone has to extend themselves to ‘reach’ the back of the stadium, particularly Bono – and partly because of the buzz of it. Also, the more of an event, the larger and more rabid the crowd, the better the gig, I think. That’s why the massive South American stadium shows are generally the best on any tour, and some third night in an arena on a Tuesday night in Ohio or some shit are generally the worst.
Arena Cons: Scaled back show, higher risk of the band on auto.
Arena Pros: Intimacy. Even the shit seats are relatively good and the sound is generally far better too. Probably a better overall experience in terms of the hassles of getting there, getting drinks, going to the bathroom and all of that. Stadium shows are a real mission. You’re planning everything half an hour in advance.
So yeah, I’ve never seen U2 in an arena, and I’d love to for something different, but if you get a good spot for one of their stadium gigs it will fucking blow you away, I can assure you of that. 80,000 people singing along to every word at the top of their lungs - and the way the band feeds of that - is pretty fucking cool.
) setting. 
), but the Barcelona show was hands down the best U2 concert I have seen. 
But I am happy they are touring, don't get me wrong. I'm just a spoiled American!! 
