1. CHOOSE AN IKEA SPEAKER THAT DOUBLES AS A BOOKSHELF
We're starting off with an idea that tackles two birds with one stone. Ikea's Symfonisk is both a Wi-Fi speaker and a bookshelf in one so you get the storage and great sound in one compact solution. You can position the speaker either horizontally or vertically to suit you and your space and enjoy the rich, detailed sound it provides - it might be compact but unless you're going for one of the best surround sound systems then it does the job you want. Meanwhile, you can use it to house your book, lamp, and other accessories.
2. FIND A STAND THAT IS SPECIFICALLY BUILT FOR AUDIO EQUIPMENT
ou can find a wide range of speaker shelves, media units and TV stands online that can help you display your audio equipment including record players, Hi-Fi systems, smart speakers, and more. Depending on your style, you can go for contemporary open-shelf solutions - as illustrated above in this modern LINES cabinet by La Boite Concept.
3. OPT FOR A SOLID SURFACE FOR YOUR SPEAKERS
For radios, surround sound systems, and smart speakers, a solid shelf can work well. Funky Chunky Furniture, for example, sells a range of wooden shelves with wax finishes in a choice of lengths ranging from 30 to 160cm, which we particularly love (as pictured below).
4. CREATE AN EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE
Location, location, location is everything when it comes to speaker positioning. Even though they're easy to move, getting the spot right is just as important as when wondering how to mount a soundbar on a wall. ‘Optimizing the placement of your speakers when placing them on shelves can make a big difference in the sound you are hearing,’ says Dave Morrison, founder of IsoAcoustics, a company that specializes in audio isolation equipment.
5. AVOID CORNERS
Dave Morrison also recommends that you avoid positioning your speakers close to the side walls - even if they are neatly out of the way. ‘Positioning speakers in the corner will result in a bass-heavy sound,' he says. 'The reflections of soundwaves on the left and right walls will also negatively affect the sound. For best results, we recommend positioning the speakers at least two feet away from the corner of the room to prevent reflections and bass buildup.’ Which does make us rather rethink all our living room ideas about shoving the speakers out the line of sight.
6. FOCUS YOUR SPEAKERS
Just like with record player stands, you'll need to position your speakers at a slight angle too, to benefit from the best sound. 'Toe in your speakers so they are angled inwards and pointing towards the main listening area,' says Dave Morrison. 'Angle the speakers less if there are many listening positions in the room, so that you can open them up and more evenly fill the room with sound.'