Samson Resolv SE5 Two-Way Active 5" Studio Monitor (Each) - Manual (Page 12)

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Positioning your Studio Monitors
Positioning the Resolv SE Series
Near field (close to the listener) monitoring has become the choice of many engi-
neers because of the cost and complexities associated with mounting monitors onto
the walls. Positioning your studio monitors correctly is very important. Correct place-
ment not only creates the proper stereo image, but also minimizes the effects of your
room’s reflections. This is especially important in today’s project studios since the
budget for room acoustics is often close to nothing. By taking some time and using
your ears when setting up your monitors, you can create an optimal listening environ-
ment.
The most important consideration when evaluating room acoustics is the presence of
reflective surfaces near the monitoring area. These can include flat tabletops, glass
mirrors or framed pictures, large open walls and even the surface of your mixing con-
sole. Most reflecting sound will eventually reach the listening position, but since it
is slightly delayed from the direct source, the result is random cancellation of some
frequencies, or comb filtering. If possible, remove any and all reflective surfaces. You
may also want to hang some acoustic foam on walls near the monitors.
When positioning the monitors, you’ll want to set up what is commonly referred to
as the “mix triangle” (shown below). In this ideal configuration, the space between
the left and right monitor is equal to the distance from the listener to each monitor,
forming an equilateral triangle.