How Distance, Height & Angles Affect Sound

My journey in this industry really started when I was about 10 years old, driving my parents crazy with music at all hours of the day. I didn’t know it then, but that obsession with sound—tinkering with speakers, experimenting with gear, and chasing the perfect song—would eventually become a lifelong career.

Now, with over 25 years in the industry, that same passion still fuels everything I do. Long before home automation and smart lighting became mainstream, it was music and audio that pulled me in—and it remains a huge part of who I am and what I love most about this work.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to design and build custom audio systems all across the country—from luxury homes to dedicated listening rooms and home theaters. And no matter the brand or the budget, there’s one thing that always holds true: speaker placement can make or break the experience.

You don’t always need to buy new gear to get better sound. Sometimes, a few small adjustments can bring your system to life in ways you didn’t think possible. So, I wanted to share a few tried-and-true tips to help you get the most out of your setup—whether you’re building a dream system or just dialing in what you already have.

1. Distance: Find Your Sweet Spot
   The ideal distance between your speakers and your listening position (what we call the “sweet spot”) creates proper imaging and balance.
   • A good starting point is to form an equilateral triangle between you and the speakers. For example, if the speakers are 8 feet apart, your seat should also be 8 feet from each speaker.
   • Also, don’t shove them against the wall. Give them room to breathe. Even 12 to 36 inches of space can open up the soundstage in a big way.
     
     
2. Toe-In: Angle Matters
   Most people overlook this, but the angle—or “toe-in”—of your speakers is key.
   • I usually aim the tweeters just slightly past my ears. It brings vocals and instruments into sharper focus and tightens up the stereo image.
   • But don’t overdo it—too much toe-in can make the sound feel boxed in. Move them a little at a time and listen to your favorite track. You’ll feel it when it locks in.
     
     
3. Height: Meet Your Ears
   This one’s simple but crucial: your tweeters should be at ear level when you’re sitting down.
   • If you’re using bookshelf speakers, grab proper stands. Don’t let them sit too low on a cabinet.
   • For home theaters, tilt your center channel up slightly if it’s below the screen. That upward angle makes a big difference in clarity.
     

Bonus Tip: Keep It Symmetrical
Try to keep both speakers the same distance from nearby walls, windows, and furniture. The more symmetrical the layout, the more balanced your soundstage will be—especially in untreated rooms.

Need a Hand? That’s What We’re Here For.

I built Atlantic AV to give people more than just great gear—we design and tune systems that truly move you. If you ever want help getting more out of your system, or just want a second set of ears on your space, give us a call.

Sometimes, all it takes is a little speaker shuffle to fall in love with your system all over again.

—Ryan Thurston
Founder, Atlantic AV