Stereo Hi-Fi Setup Tool
Set up a two-channel music system with practical spacing, toe-in, wall clearance, stands, sub integration, and amp matching guidance.
Speaker spacing
7.4 ft apart
Side wall clearance
2.8 ft each side
Front wall start
2.2 ft behind speakers
Tweeter height
38 in
Amp target
50-100 W/ch is a sensible target
Sub crossover
70-90 Hz
Listening triangle
Start with speakers 7.4 feet apart and the seat 8.0 feet away. The triangle can be slightly narrower than equal-sided if the center image feels too wide or thin.
Toe-in
Moderate toe-in, aimed at or just behind the main seat. Reduce toe-in if the soundstage collapses to the middle; increase it if vocals are vague or reflections from side walls are strong.
Wall distance
Begin about 2.2 feet from the front wall and keep at least 2.8 feet from each side wall if the room allows. Move in 3-6 inch steps while listening to familiar vocals and bass lines.
Stands and isolation
For standmount speakers, put tweeters near seated ear height, use stable stands, and keep the front baffle clear of shelf edges. Small placement changes often beat buying new cables.
Sub integration
If adding a sub, start around 70-90 Hz, set phase by ear or room correction, and lower the sub until bass supports the speakers without pulling attention to the box.
Amp matching
50-100 W/ch is a sensible target. Check speaker impedance and choose an amp that stays comfortable at your listening levels instead of chasing peak wattage claims.
How to use the result
Treat these numbers as a strong starting point, then adjust for furniture, doors, windows, and how the room actually sounds. The goal is a system that is comfortable every night, not a perfect diagram that no one wants to live with.
Beginner guardrails
- Measure from the main seat, not from the back wall.
- Keep speakers aimed at ear height when possible.
- Leave room for cables, ventilation, and safe walking paths.