Control Room Optimization

In the studio, immaculate acoustics are paramount. You’re looking for a combination of high-quality speakers and the right acoustic treatment for the room. However, many underestimate the importance of correct speaker placement. Here are a few simple tips:

The loudspeakers and the listening position should form an isosceles triangle

This means that the distance between the speakers equals the distance between you and each speaker. The acoustic axes of the speakers are aimed at your ears.

Observe the correct distance from the wall

The distance between the speakers and the wall determines the bass response. If the bass sounds boomy or too thin, an incorrect distance from the wall is often the cause.

Side-to-side symmetry

The left and right side walls should be at about the same distance from your listening position. It’s best to sit approximately in the middle, in order to prevent unwanted distortions of the stereo image due to differences in runtime.

One third/two thirds rule

Room modes can negatively affect the sound of a room. They’re the most balanced at 1/3 of the total depth of the room. This is why your listening position should be located at 1/3 of the room depth from either the front or back walls (the latter of which corresponds to 2/3 from the front).

The aforementioned rule also applies vertically. Loudspeaker stands with a height adjustment and tilting carrier plate are a great way to adjust your speaker positions vertically. If the speakers are placed higher than your ears, they need to be angled down, so that their acoustic axes point at your ears.

Trust is good, control is better

You can check the frequency response of your speakers for linearity using an inexpensive measuring microphone and software, some of which is free. This is a great way to see the acoustic effects of different speaker placements. It allows you to systematically search for the best position for your speakers.