Setting up monitors

  • Thread starter Thread starter Sotonfan
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Sotonfan

New member
I just bought my first pair of amplified monitors - a pair of BX5’s. My first impression is really positive – a huge step up from my old computer speakers.
Two quick questions as I’m setting them up.

1. I’m trying to set them up to make a triangle, in line with my head, just like the manual says. Problem is, the desk I’m using is too low, so the speakers are facing my chest. How big a deal is this? And if I need to make the speakers higher, what are the do’s and don’ts of propping up speakers? Are there mini-speaker stands, or would a pile of books do the same job?

2. I notice a low hum coming from both of the speakers. I’m assuming that this is the sound of the amplifiers and is normal. Is this something to be concerned about?

Thanks for any advice,
Drew.
 
Drew,

The monitors should definitely be level with your ears. Books would actually make good stands. They're solid, heavy, and absorb vibration - just what you want. The only issue I see is they might topple over.

I've developed a wall reflection calculator that might help you find a decent position for your monitors. You can find it hear at the Recording Studio Design Forum

The hum could be a grounding issue. What kind of amp are you using?

Thomas

barefootsound.com
 
Is your mixing desk close to a wall? If it is, build some stands out of plywood and shelvig brackets, and hang them on the wall.
 
barefoot..............

Thanks for the link to John Sayers site........Recording Studio Design Forum.

Peace

spin
 
Thomas and Jblount,

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll raid the bookshelf for the time being, but I like the idea of hanging some shelves at the right height - especially since that would buy me some space back on the desk.

Yes, they're "entry level" monitors - but hopefully they'll give me what I need to keep learning this business.

Cheers,
Drew.
 
Do the monitors hum when turned up with no audio cables attached to them?
 
Perhaps they only hum because they have not learned the lyrics yet.
 
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