5.1.2 speaker location? (1 Viewer)

[William Lang Jr]

I am new to this forum so hello to all.
I am just getting my feet wet with a home theater setup so my apologies if my questions seem a little basic and long winded.

Currently I have the options to set up a 7.1 or 5.1.2 surround sound system. My thoughts were to go with a 5.1.2 and use the additional 2 speakers as front height speakers. My question is in regard to the position and height of the two side speakers in a 5.1.2 setup.

I have read several articles some state that the speakers should be placed 90-110 degrees off axis from the listening position and at a height that varies anywhere from a few inches above the listeners ears to 1-2 feet above the listeners ears, others have stated to mount the speakers on the rear wall facing forward again at heights anywhere from a few inches to 1-2 above the listeners ears. Needless to say since I am a novice this is very confusing to me.

I would appreciate some advice as to what would be the best location for the speakers and at what height. I do realize that every room is different and many factors affect the sound. I’m just looking for a starting point.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks to all.

 

[JohnRice]

My suggestion is to the side (90 degrees) or slightly behind the viewing area, but I wouldn't go as far as 110 degrees. The back wall is not the place to put them. I'd suggest having them a little above ear level, but probably not more than 1 foot.

If you want to really follow Dolby Atmos, the height speakers shouldn't just be above the mains, but overhead, such as in or surface mounted to the ceiling, at roughly a 45 degree angle in front of the viewing position. Unless you're using reflecting speakers, which are hit and miss, depending on the ceiling and other variables.

 

[William Lang Jr]

Since I have a vaulted ceiling the use of up firing speakers for the height channels is not practical. I planned on using 2 of the book shelf speakers mounted at ceiling height and angled down toward the listener. The 1 foot above ear level seems a little more reasonable then 24" above.

Thank you for your input, it is appreciated.-