How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your speaker width in inches (measured from the outermost speaker edge).
- Input your crossover frequency (typically 80Hz or 100Hz for standard systems).
- Specify your listening distance from the speakers in feet.
- Select your audio quality preference to adjust the calculation.
- Click the "Calculate" button to generate recommendations.
Understanding the Results
The calculator provides three key measurements:
- Maximum Acceptable Gap: The largest distance between the front edges of your speakers that maintains optimal stereo imaging.
- Recommended Stereo Base Width: The ideal total width of your speaker setup for your setup.
- Optimal Listening Position: Suggested positioning based on your listening distance.
Calculator Formula Explained
The calculator uses the following formula to determine the maximum gap:
Maximum Gap = Speaker Width × 0.35 × (Crossover Frequency / Listening Distance)
This formula accounts for how speaker width, crossover frequency, and listening distance interact to affect stereo imaging quality.
Practical Tips
For optimal results:
- Measure your speaker width accurately (from the outermost driver edge).
- Use the actual crossover frequency of your system, not just the standard values.
- For best results, place your speakers as far apart as the calculator suggests while maintaining proper alignment.
- Consider room acoustics, as they can affect the ideal stereo base gap.