This article will teach you how to set up a sound system to get the best results. Instructions apply to speaker pairs and multi-channel setups.

Here is a short list of what not to do when setting up your speakers. Also, check your sound system manual for tips specific to your model.

The distances from the side walls are also important. The golden rule of thumb states that the distance from a speaker to the nearest side wall should be at least 1.6 times the distance from the front wall. For example, if the distance to the front wall is 3 feet, the distance to the nearest side wall should be at least 4.8 feet for each speaker.

Once the speakers are in the ideal position, turn them 30 degrees toward the listening position, unless the manual tells you not to. You want the two speakers and the listener to form an equilateral triangle. If you want perfection, a protractor and a tape measure will help immensely. Keep in mind that you don’t want the listener’s head to be exactly on the corner of the triangle. Move a few inches closer, so that the point rests behind their head. This way, your ears will pick up the left and right stereo channels correctly.