Newbie TV placement advice

[marshallfla]

I know this is an AUDIOholics forum, but I'm in the process of designing a small HT in my (currently being remodelled) home living room. I'm still deciding on which TV type (DLP, LCD, or plasma) but should I choose the plasma and mount it on the wall, does anyone have any idea at what height? I ask because I'll have the contractor place 1/2" plywood on the studs which will make installing it easier. Issues I've been considering:
a) sitting on the couch
b) entertaining with people standing (e.g. Superbowl parties, etc).
c) children

Also, does anyone know if placing it slighly higher and tilting it down 5 degrees or so has any advantage? Any help appreciated.

Marshall

 

[MDS]

The general rule for tv height is to have the center of the screen at eye level. It will be tough to get a good compromise height that will be right for both sitting and standing.

Whatever you do avoid mounting it too high.

 

[Spiffyfast]

I agree, imagine trying to watch a tv that up too high for a long period of time like watching a movie, thats gotta strain the neck, kind of like sitting in the front row at the theater

 

[bpape]

Actually, for larger screens, we use the eye level as 1/3 up from the bottom of the screen.

As has been said, optimizing for both is difficult - especially with the tipping. You want pretty much a dead on viewing angle vertically. I'd recommend putting it on a movable mount so you can swing it into whatever position is required for what you're doing. This will require a bit of cable slack obviously.