When used as front or rear satellite speakers, the VS-1.4’s should
be arranged as symmetrically as possible. The speakers should be
slightly toed-in and the drivers should face the listening area with-
out obstruction from furniture. If possible, arrange the speakers so
that the distance between the listener and the center or the speak-
er plane is about 1.5 times the distance between the two speakers
(fig. 3). This configuration puts the listener in the center of the
stereo image.
For 5.1-channel discrete digital surround systems, we recommend
that all five speakers be placed equidistant from the listening posi-
tion. For Dolby Pro-Logic®systems, it is preferable to have a more
diffuse, ambient sound radiating from behind the listening position.
This is accomplished by placing the rear
(surround) speakers so that they fire across the room at each other
(not directly toward the seating position), and by placing them 3 to
4 feet above ear level.
Experimentation is the key to finding the best arrangement in your
listening environment. Be patient, have fun, and remember that
small changes in speaker position can sometimes have a signifi-
cant effect on the sound. For example, moving the speakers near-
er to a room boundary (walls, corners) will tend to increase their
bass output, but may result in “boomy” or “muddy” sound.
Conversely, placing the speakers farther away from room bound-
aries will tend to decrease their bass output, but may result in
greater articulation and better imaging.
In addition, room furnishings play an important role in absorbing
and reflecting soundwaves. Midrange and high
frequencies in particular will be absorbed by soft furnishings such as sofas, carpets and curtains. A large number of these
soft furnishings will dull the sound, while a “live” room with few furnishings will brighten the sound. If you are willing to
spend some time fine-tuning the performance of your system, you will enjoy the benefits for years to come.
!! Speaker Stand and Shelf Mounting
When used in the vertical (upright) orientation, the VS-1.4 may be placed on a rigid speaker stand. NHT offers a 26.5”
stand (OneStand) which is ideally suited for the VS-1.4. Refer to the OneStand owner’s manual for detailed installation
instructions. Additionally, the VS-1.4 may be placed on a shelf or in a cabinet; however, this placement may have a
detrimental effect on the sound. For best results, place the speaker as far forward as possible to the front edge of the cabinet.