Ever since jumping into this crazy pool of A/V gear, I have been reading and reading, and reading some more. As some of you know I started this journey about the middle of this year when I walked into a
thrift store and off sparked an ember that has been building ever since. As the Snell center sits idle, I can't help but think it is a shame to keep going unused. It's of no use with the current Snell D7 towers and sub in my dedicated 2.1 music room.
First thing I notice about the Snell LCR7 center is the obvious D'Appolito MTM design.
Being fairly ignorant of most HT applications of center channel speakers, I assumed it was meant as a horizontal lying speaker under the TV as we have all seen many times. Then, I see a french cleat attached to the back of the LCR7. Obviously the previously owner had this mounted in a vertical manner..
So, I keep reading and reading. Off to the Snell manual. Off to the Audioholics forums.
Audioholics: Use a bookshelf for center. Don't put an MTM on its side for a center as there will be lobing issues- turn it vertical to get better results. Use a 3 way MTM if you go the horizontal center route.
The manual: Place the speaker either above or below the TV with front edge as far as forward as possible. Place all front speakers at approximately the same height, if possible the center within 2ft height of the L&R mains. If you need to place the center any higher or lower, angle it toward ear level. If this is not possible,
place the speaker on its side for best results. Aha! Vertical is apparently preferred!
OK, so between the two sources, I am obviously picking up on what everyone is trying to tell me. I will be struggling to place this gorgeous center channel vertically within these parameters recommended. If I place the center vertically, where the MTM tweeter lines up with the tweeter on the L&R towers, a TV placed above the vertical center channel will be too high up on the wall.
Using my listening room as an illustration, first straight on pic shows the Snell towers lined up fairly well with the tweeter on the vertical center channel. Disregard the Elac's on the stands.
Here's a higher shot showing how much space is left if a TV was mounted above the vertical center channel. 8ft ceiling.
So, where do people like myself go from here? Plop the center on it's side which isn't recommended? Why in the hell are most manufacturers still pumping out MTM center channel speakers meant to be horizontal? Why is it not more common knowledge that 3 way center channels are superior and apparently easier to deal with logistically?