speaker height

[msugarpants]

speaker height - please help.

This is my first post so pardon me if i am repeating something already posted. Nothing i saw was quite specific enough.

I am building my own home entertainment center. I will be getting the 52 inch mits DLP 1080p. I know they should be at about 20 inches, right? I was debating whether to put the klipsh reference center channel below the TV (i would increase the height then to 24 inches in my construction) or on top of the TV (where it would be at 55 inches). I am sitting on a typical couch to watch. Also the side surround speakers. Right now they are at ear level and i am making the console to hold them in a pocket (elevated of course off the wood) starting at about 35. They are 15 inches tall. Is this the best set up? Can i aim the center channel and it will not matter? The construction of this project depends on YOU! If you want pics, i can mail them to you when complete if you email me at msugarman@psusd.us

thank you

 

[Tubes4Life]

in general, the mid and HF drivers in the speakers should be at ear level relative to how you are listening to them. Although that is a rule of thumb when setting up a speaker system it is not critical for home theatre applications. As for the placement of the center channel, the best thing to do is try different placements and angles until you get the desired sound. IMO I find the center speaker projects better when it is higher off the ground but acoustics vary and it may be different in your room.

 

[MDS]

Ear level is best but plus or minus a few feet usually works out ok. The general recommendation for the center channel is to be within 2-3 feet above or below the main speakers.

In theory, it is better to have the center channel above the screen because we have a harder time localizing sounds that come from above than those that come from below. If you want the center image to seem to come from somewhere around the center of the screen, rather than being able to pinpoint exactly where it comes from, then above is supposed to be better. I've had it both ways and really don't notice too much difference either way.

 

[msugarpants]

Thank you both for your opinions. I cannot try it two different ways due to how i am designing it (although, i will see if i can work something into the design). This info was helpful, and anyone else with their opinions would be appreciated. thanks.

mike