Whether or not it is OK to put bookshelf speakers on their side depends on a few factors, including the type of speakers, the sound you are trying to achieve, and the placement of the speakers in the room.
Arguments in favor of putting bookshelf speakers on their side
There are a few arguments in favor of putting bookshelf speakers on their side:
- It can save space. If you have limited space, putting your bookshelf speakers on their side can save you some floor space.
- It can improve the soundstage. If you are placing your bookshelf speakers on a bookshelf or other high surface, putting them on their side can help to improve the soundstage. This is because it will allow the speakers to project sound in a more horizontal direction.
- It can be more aesthetically pleasing. Some people find that putting their bookshelf speakers on their side is more aesthetically pleasing than placing them in the upright position.
Arguments against putting bookshelf speakers on their side
There are a few arguments against putting bookshelf speakers on their side:
- It can degrade the sound quality. Putting bookshelf speakers on their side can degrade the sound quality in a few ways. First, it can change the way that the speakers disperse sound. Second, it can cause the speakers to vibrate more, which can lead to distortion. Third, it can block the ports on the speakers, which can reduce the bass response.
- It can make the speakers more unstable. Putting bookshelf speakers on their side can make them more unstable, especially if they are not placed on a level surface. This can increase the risk of the speakers tipping over.
- It can damage the speakers. If the bookshelf speakers are not properly supported, putting them on their side can damage them. This is especially true if the speakers are heavy or have large drivers.
When to put bookshelf speakers on their side
If you do decide to put your bookshelf speakers on their side, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure that the speakers are properly supported. The speakers should be placed on a level surface that is large enough to support the weight of the speakers. You may also want to use speaker stands to provide additional support.
- Be careful not to block the ports on the speakers. If the speakers have ports, make sure that they are not blocked by the surface that the speakers are placed on.
- Listen to the speakers carefully to make sure that they sound good. When you first put your bookshelf speakers on their side, listen to them carefully to make sure that they sound good. If you notice any problems with the sound quality, you may want to place the speakers in the upright position instead.
Whether or not it is OK to put bookshelf speakers on their side depends on a few factors, including the type of speakers, the sound you are trying to achieve, and the placement of the speakers in the room. If you do decide to put your bookshelf speakers on their side, be sure to take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the speakers or degrading the sound quality.
