S E T U P D E T A I L S
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Setup Details
Backward Tilt
The zA2.1 speakers are very directive in the vertical. There is thus about a 22 cm [9”]
range of ear height that will experience full spectrum sound. In addition, the backward tilt
serves to present the sound from all the drivers in phase (“time aligned”) at your ears,
which improves the smoothness of the frequency response by minimizing the effects of
interference between the drivers, and creates a high degree of phase coherence.
It is thus important to ensure that your speakers are tilted so that they are both equally
well aimed upward at your ears when you are in your usual listening position.
The speakers are shipped with the angle set for listening distances of 2.5 to 4 meters [8 –
13 feet] with a nominal ear height of 1m [38 inches]. Since listening heights and distances
vary, you might benefit from some experimentation with the angle.
You can prop the front or rear of the speakers with books, tableware, whatever, until the
vertical centers of the speakers are fairly close to being aimed directly at your ears.
Shim washers are provided in a small zip-lock style bag, and you can make your new
angle permanent by removing the feet at the front or rear of the speakers and inserting
enough shims to match the amount you shimmed in your test.
To remove the feet, set the speaker on its face. The rubber feet are held on with screws
that take a #3 Phillips screwdriver. The carpet spikes are screwed onto studs, and are
turned counterclockwise to remove them.
Stereo Image
The stereo image will be usually best when an equilateral triangle is created by the
speakers and the listening position. On the other hand, there is a strong argument that
this angle was simply made up for no good reason other than memorability, and everyone
should use whatever they want.
It is very important to avoid the use of a high backed chair that will reflect unwanted
sound into your ears with practically no delay, even when the headrest appears to be