Removing components from between the speakers


I've read many of the previous threads on this question - longer IC's vs. longer speaker cables - but what I'm writing about is what I read in Jim Smith's book "Get Better Sound" about removing ALL components and racks between the speakers and setting everything up side-stage, so to speak.

Has anyone done this? If I do, it'll necessitate longer speaker cables and a longer set of IC's from the tt to the amp.
128x128simao
No advantage to having gear close to speakers. In between or otherwise.
Isolation of all components from each other is important to keep noise and
distortion minimal. That is always a key for best sound. Especially with
turntables.

my preference is to isolate gear form speakers physically as best possible
using proper speaker wires. You need heavier gauge for longer runs in
particular.
I prefer to not have the electronics or rack between the speakers. I hear a wider deeper and taller soundstage. I prefer long ICs and short speaker cables. I believe in what Mr. Smith says. The exception is I use the Sumiko Master Set Method for speaker placement instead. It worked better in my room.
Ctsooner I agree it actually depends on the individual system and setup. Roxy54 my own experiences concur with yours. Some of the very best systems I've heard have followed either method, "it just depends" always seems to be the right answer.
Charles,
Good responses all. My monitors are pulled forward of the salamander rack. A good 12" forward. So maybe it wouldn't make that much difference, other than putting the tt (a good, heavy VPI) on a more stable platform.
If you don't have a lot of components, and no TT, you can use amp stands for everything.