Can you help me discover the optimum hieght for?

Question

my surround sound back speakers? I'm going to mount them on the wall behind the couch. Thanks for your time

Answer 1

There is no absolute answer. It is generally accepted that there is more leeway in positioning rear/surround speakers than the fronts/centre. I've suggested three reference articles that broadly cover the variables and recommendations.

You need to consider the size and shape of the room, furniture placement, listening location relative to walls, whether you are talking 5.1, 6.1 or 7.1 sound, dipole or direct radiating speakers, etc.

There is actually a difference between surround and rear speakers. Surrounds are usually part of a 5.1 setup and located more to the side than behind the listener. Rear speaker(s) are exactly that, one or two speakers behind the listener and used in a 6.1 or 7.1 setup.

There is agreement that rear/surround speakers should be mounted higher than ear level (at ear level when standing is one guideline). Even near the ceiling is OK. It is also generally accepted not to aim speakers directly at the ear.

But ultimately you are the listener so keep in mind there is no absolute right / wrong answer.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

If your ears are going to be higher than the back of our couch when you are watching TV, then go with the first answer. That's the best configuration.

If you tend to sink down into your couch while watching, then go as high as you need so your ears hear them directly and not through the back of your couch. You can even mount them on the ceiling behind you if your couch is away from the back wall.

Answer 3

Optimum height would put the tweeter (aka the little speaker) at your ear height when sitting down.

Answer 4

I would place them slightly above ear level.  You can place them behind your seating arrangement, or to the sides of your seating arrangement.