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The importance of component location...

I'm brand spankin new to the high end audio world, so I'm beginning my quest to someday call myself "knowledgable".

I've had the chance to look through the vast majority of systems on the gon. One thing I've noticed, at least from those postings that have pics, is that most people with dedicated listening rooms, have there amps located directly in the middle of the speakers ON THE FLOOR!!! Correct me if I'm wrong but I've always read is manuals NOT to place any component on the floor.

Now, just by looking at the pics, I can see that the amps location would reduce the long lengths of cable to the speakers. But does this location effect amp performace? If so, how?

Would this be the only reason to place the amp there?
As for myself, I don't have the option of placing my amp in this spot. Trust me, my wife would have a major objection, seeing my system is in the living room.

I guess the point I'm getting at is what would be the advatage of a system with its amp in the location over a system with its amp on an equipment rack?

Or is this what thing about amp location really a dead issue. Does it even matter.

Can anyone suggest a real world location to place the amp that would offer advantages in performance...outside of an equipment rack?

Thanks for you suggestions.
cdwallace
nsgarch's avatar
nsgarch
2,524 posts
 
If you re-check the pics, you'll see that amps only 'appear' to be on the floor. In fact they're on short amp stands that lift them a few inches off the floor. This keeps out most dust, and prevents acidental blocking of the cooling vents on the bottom of the unit (most instructions caution against setting equipment on carpet for this reason).

Short speaker cables and longer amp-preamp interconnects are generally the preferred layout (especially if using tube amps which have limited ability to control (damp) the woofers, resulting in less than terrific (sloppy/muddy) bass.

If your significant other objects to an amp right in the middle of the room, you should consider a pair of monoblock (1 channel) amps located next to, or even behind each speaker, rather than a stereo amp between them.
reubent
6,985 posts
 
Placing the amp between the speakers on a floor stand provides two potential sonic benefits.

First, It decreases speaker cable length as previously mentioned. Also the short footed amp stands are very rigid helping to couple the amp to the floor.

Secondly, it prevents you from sticking a big A$$ TV between your speakers! Although generally practical, have a big A$$ TV between your speakers can cause sonic issues.

Enjoy,

TIC
unsound
7,329 posts
 
May I also add that amps tend to be the heaviest and hottest components in most audio systems. Keeping them low decreases the chance of them falling over and possibly hurting something or someone. Keeping them low may also surround them with the coolest air. Futhermore most people like to keep amps as far away as possible from other equipment that may deal with more delicate signals.
mapleleafs3
190 posts
 
I have mine on BIG thick Ikea Cutting boards. Put spikes on them painted them to match the rack and the sit on the floor next to the speakers. Keeps cable runs short.
bigjoe's avatar
bigjoe
693 posts
 
as long as your amps have room for proper ventilation there is no one location thats better than another,put your amps where they best suit your needs.
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