About this tool
The Speaker Placement calculator determines optimal positions for studio monitors based on room dimensions. The tool computes the distance from the rear wall, side walls, and the stereo pair opening angle, forming an equilateral triangle with the listening position. It accounts for monitor manufacturer recommendations on minimum wall distances and listening angle.
Why it matters: incorrect monitor placement can negate all investment in room acoustic treatment. A monitor placed too close to the rear wall gets a 3–6 dB bass boost but also SBIR dips. Too far from the wall, and room reflections start dominating over the direct sound, smearing the stereo image. The calculator finds the balance that minimizes boundary interference.
How to read results: the room diagram shows recommended monitor and listener positions with precise distances in meters. Green zones are optimal positions; yellow zones are acceptable with compromises. The first SBIR dip frequencies are shown separately for each suggested position.
Common mistakes: placing the listener at the exact midpoint of the room length, where the null of the second axial mode coincides; putting monitors on a desk without stands, causing tabletop reflections and comb filtering; breaking symmetry — left and right monitors at different distances from the side walls, which distorts the stereo panorama.
Next steps: after determining positions, check SBIR for the chosen placement and open the Room Profile with the Room Modes calculator for a full acoustic assessment.
