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Speaker Height Problem

I recently dipped my toes into building a dedicated 2 channel system, with pertinent components for this discussion being an Anthem STR integrated amp, and Paradigm Persona 3F speakers. In general, I am very pleased with the upgrades from my home theater listening.

However, while not thirsty for huge low end performance, some music has sounded as though it is missing some mid and low end, to the point that I am looking at sub options.  And I have run ARC each time I add a component and/new cables.

My listening room is approximately 13’ wide x 20’ deep x 10’ high.  Due to original configuration of the room as a theater, my primary listening spot is centered 10’ from speakers and elevated 6” on first viewing platform (ie speakers are sitting 6” lower)

My laser level has my ear height at 8” above the top front edge of the speakers (11” above center of top tweeter). When I slouch down 11”  they sound like different speakers!  All of a sudden, not only am I getting mids and lows I wasn’t hearing, but the sound stage sounds deeper.

What is the ideal level height of the speaker top tweeter with relation to my ears? The 3F’s have 4-driver, 3 way floorstanding bass reflex.  

What are my placement options?  
I’ve thought maybe a raised box (which would need to be very sturdy…any suggestions?), or even a wedge that would tip the speakers upward enough to aim at ear level.

Any advice is greatly appreciated…thanks!

javaruke
petg60
1,486 posts
 

When I slouch down 11” they sound like different speakers! All of a sudden, not only am I getting mids and lows I wasn’t hearing, but the sound stage sounds deeper.

At least you know your starting point. Seems tweeters need to be at ear level for best imaging.

Contrary to your situation i need to raise a little for the ultimate depth imaging but that is easier.

You can make 11-12" (including feet) boxes made from mdf or plywood filled with sand (more economic solution), how far you go in designing, looks and construction is up to you. Something like Arcici used to do for B&W 801, or search for low speaker stands that can fully support your speakers (cabinet width and depth).

Both can work.

 

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,546 posts
 

Whatever sounds best. You have to.

Every speaker is designed for a "best" height, but the designer was not in your room.

soix
9,407 posts
 

Well, a simple and very cost-effective solution would be to get a bunch of hockey pucks to raise the speakers, but you could also try experimenting with tilting the speakers back a bit so the tweeters are aimed closer to your ears — or a combination of both.  That should work.  Best of luck. 

newbee
4,767 posts
 

You may have a 'null' where the speakers or listening position is located. Try moving you speakers forward and/or backward (or sideways as well) a bit and see what happens. Ditto listening position. And in combo. 

erik_squires
16,013 posts
 

Hi OP!! While the height issue matters, more importantly is the angle, vertically and horizontally.  Audiophiles tend to want to do something religiously and that's point the tweeters at your ears like a laser guided missile.

In reality there's two things wrong with this.

  • Speakers are often designed for a lot less toe-in.  Magico, Revel and Focal are some I can think of.  They want to be flat to the rear wall.
  • As you have discovered, the tonal balance is often better BELOW the tweeter axis. 
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