North Creek (northcreekmusic.com) is one of the relatively few companies that voice speakers for near wall placement (9" or less). My North Eskas are sweet and musical, and seem to do especially well on vocals and smaller scale music. Unsurprisingly, given the size of the box and drivers, they are not the last word in drama, but I quite enjoy them. If you get the boxes built, and assemble the innards, it's good value and low hassle. There have been a few threads on this: you might search North, near wall, small room, and the like.
Can't help you with the height vs. spacing dilemma, but I'll be interested to hear what people say.
Can't help you with the height vs. spacing dilemma, but I'll be interested to hear what people say.