Bookshelf Speakers that have to be up against the wall

    millercarbon is completely correct! All of those things suggested should be investigated. BUT!!!!!....Are you completely locked in to the placement of your speakers? If so, your options are limited. Even if you replace your existing speakers, the new ones will also offer a challenge as to their placement.

   It all comes down to what you perceive as acceptable sound for you. Your sound "theater" should be what you accept as ideal with what you expect. I still haven't heard what speakers you are now using? Not that it matters so much but it gives a hint as to how improvements may be accomplished.

actually, no....a careful read of my statement about tailoring the polar  response IS not about voicing, its about managing the. amplitude of those early refllections. IF they are down significant db it js the same as being out in the room 3-5’...just physics...

I can stellar image depth with. Vandersteen Treo out 20” from the wall (tweeter to wall) because they are designed for that....of course they get better at 3’ but ...... 

stop by the studio someday and hear the depth of.  image possible out of soffit mounted  set of constant directivity monitors....maybe not mastering quality but fine....for sure...

also see this month’s Stereophile for a review of “ image champs” and a designer who knows how to pull that off...

Lots of good info, thanks. I own Totem Rainmakers and they sounded excellent until I had to put them close to the wall. I will look into all the suggestions. 

1. get the height so they produce sound, especially highs, at seated ear level if possible.

2. add a subwoofer. filter out the low bass to the sub before it goes to the bookshelf speakers so they do not try to produce too much bass.

3. find the best location for the sub that is acceptable. Not too much from the sub, just enough that you notice if it is off.