Have you noticed that the sound from your speakers isn't optimal? This could be due to the distance between the speakers. Incorrect positioning can lead to sound distortion and a poorer listening experience. Now you're wondering: ‘How far apart should speakers be for the best sound experience?’ In this blog, we'll give you tips on how to achieve this, including the use of speaker stands.
Why is the correct distance between speakers so important?
Accurate positioning of your speakers is important for sound quality. When speakers are too close together, this can lead to a narrow sound image, making it difficult to distinguish between different instruments or sound effects. The sound can ‘bleed’ into each other, resulting in a less clear and less immersive listening experience.
On the other hand, if speakers are too far apart, this can break the cohesion of the sound. You lose the stereo effect because there is too much separation between the sound channels. This can cause the music or film sounds to sound unnatural and scattered, detracting from the immersion and listening experience.
The right distance ensures a wide and immersive sound image, where every sound seems to come from exactly where it is intended, which is essential for enjoying music and films in high quality.
The ideal space between speakers
In general, the distance between two speakers depends on the size of the room and the acoustics, but there are some guidelines you can follow to get started. For the best sound experience, your speakers should ideally be between 1800 mm and 2400 mm apart. This depends on the size of your speakers.
Make sure there is a wall or barrier behind the speakers, which helps to amplify the sound. It is important that the main listening position, for example your favourite chair or sofa, is at the same distance from the speakers as the speakers are from each other, creating a perfect equilateral triangle.
This distance ensures that the sound is distributed evenly throughout the room, resulting in a better stereo experience!
Tips for positioning your speakers
1. Use the triangle rule
Ensure that the distance between the speakers is approximately equal to the distance from each speaker to the listening position. This creates an equilateral triangle that ensures a balanced stereo image.
2. Optimise low frequency response
For ideal low-frequency response, it is advisable to experiment with the distance between your speakers and the rear wall. The optimal distance from the rear wall is usually between 300 mm and 1000 mm. Make sure that both speakers are positioned evenly from the rear wall to ensure consistency in the sound.
3. Avoid proximity to side walls
It is also important to avoid placing the speakers too close to side walls. This can negatively affect the stereo image and sound quality. Try to find a balanced setup where the speakers are free from direct obstacles and reflections from the walls.
4. Use a tape measure
To ensure that your speakers are perfectly positioned, use a tape measure to accurately measure the distances. Your brain is very sensitive to the arrival times of sound, so exact distances are crucial for a balanced sound experience.
5. Rearrange your room if necessary
If you are still not satisfied with the sound after making these adjustments, consider rearranging your room. The position of your listening position is just as important as the position of the speakers. Elements and surfaces in your room can also have a major impact on how the sound in the room sounds.
Optimise your setup with speaker stands
Using speaker stands is an excellent way to precisely adjust the distance between your speakers. Not only do these stands ensure that your speakers are at the ideal height, but they also make it easier to play with the distance without having to move heavy speakers around.
Why speaker stands make a difference
- Stability and sound quality: A good speaker stand provides stability, which helps reduce unwanted vibrations and resonance. This results in a clearer and more focused sound.
- Flexibility in positioning: With an adjustable speaker stand, you can easily adjust the distance and angle, which is essential for getting the most out of your speakers.
Specific stands for popular models
- For Sonos enthusiasts: The Sone One stand and Sonos Beam speaker stand are perfect for optimising your Sonos setup.
- For Samsung soundbars: Check out the HW-Q990F stand and HW-Q990D stand for seamless integration with your home cinema system.
- For IKEA Symfonisk users: The Symfonisk stand offers a stylish and practical solution.
Getting started with the distance between your speakers
Measuring is knowing, and that certainly applies to placing your speakers. Take the time to experiment with the distance and positioning to get the most out of your audio equipment. With the right setup and the help of high-quality speaker stands, you can enjoy a rich and dynamic sound experience in your own home.
