Speaker Stands: how high?

[LazyManc]

Ok, i've got a set of Kef iQ3's which I want to buy a set of stands for, but 50/60cm stands just dont seem like they'll be tall enough.

They'll be going in my room on either side of my computer desk - and i'll spend most of my listening time sat in a computer chair at the desk.

Do I want the tweeter level with my ear? Higher? Lower?

 

[Mr_Sukebe]

Most manufacturers recommend that you have the tweeters are ear level as their speakers will be designed that way.

Chances are that you'll not find a pair of stands that high. So your options are to leave them as is, or buy a couple of wall brackets.
Bearing in mind the acoustic compromise you already have with having a computer desk between them, I don't see you getting a massive benefit out of a new pair of stands, so I'd suggest you leave them where they are until you have a new room.

 

[LazyManc]

Hmm. Not actually in the room yet, I move in in a week or two, so nothing is set in stone as I don't even have a desk yet.

My plan was to put the amp on my desk to the left of my PC, and then have speakers either side.

Would I be better off having them on the other side of the room with nothing between them?

 

[commited]

I've gone from standmounts on tall stands, to floorstanders that are much smaller - the floorstanders give miles better imaging, as my tv no longer "blocks" out the left speaker, as it is higher than the speaker

 

[Mr_Sukebe]

Having large items between speakers does seem to screw up the "image" created by most stereo systems. Don't ask me why, as I have absolutely no idea.
All I know is that having free space between them does help.

 

[commited]

Having large items between speakers does seem to screw up the "image" created by most stereo systems. Don't ask me why, as I have absolutely no idea.
All I know is that having free space between them does help.

Yup, that's why I thought I should mention it

Clear space is on the agenda - currently throwing away lots of stuff, but my desk has to stay until my finals and there is no where else I can really put it.

 

[9designs2]

If you can lay the room out with clear space between and around them it's much better. Objects cause deflections of the sound pattern from mainly the tweeter, which messes up the stereo sound field. Not only that it causes major timing issue and the sounds out of tune big time.
Also you will be sitting far to close for the sound of each speaker to knit together and present a good sound. I'd have rethink on the room layout and save your money. Room layout and set up can be one of the biggest upgrades you can do, and it's general free !!!!!