Dimensions: 18’ × 18’ Medium
Ceiling: 8’
I previously related my search for reasonably priced solid stands for the Ref 3.5's. Many of these enhanced maple stands cost upwards of $1000.00, for common wood of all things. Searching the internet I discovered a material used in shooting ranges to stop large caliber high velocity bullets. I gave some thought to the high energy absorption required of such a material. I thought the characteristics required for that application could be easily transferrable for use as loudspeaker stands. The website is the following and the product is described in detail:
http://www.blackironrubber.com/ballistic_rubber.html
I ordered two blocks of vulcanized ballistic rubber. They measure
ideally for the Ref 3.5 platform: 8" x 8" x 16" and are very heavy and
solid at 41 pounds each.
I would never have believed such a dramatic transformation in the
sound of these speakers. The overall impact is tremendous. The
resultant bass is the equivalent of adding two high quality subwoofers
without the expense and complexity. The bass is not only fuller and
deeper but has greater layers of detail and tone color. There is more
range and nuance. The mid and high frequencies likewise have a three
dimensional quality with subtle cues previously masked by the lower
profile of the speakers directly on the floor. Horns are not anemic
sounding but very full with the appropriately realistic sound pressure
levels. You can hear the individual notes on each string of a guitar.
What especially amazes me is it seems I have gained more efficiency.
The Ref 3.5's play louder at the same volume setting I previously used. The soundstage is much wider and deeper with the instrumentalists moving farther into the room without a loss of depth of field. Also, overall clarity is substantially improved and the experience seems cleaner overall.
These loudspeakers absolutely need to be raised at least 8 inches off the floor. The tweeters are now at my seated ear level, 8 inches higher than stock. I previously had them slightly toed in but this is no longer necessary. I moved them about 6 inches closer to the center line and pointed straight ahead. They are positioned 10 feet apart and i sit about 12 feet away with the woofers facing each other.
There are two minor cautions. These blocks were priced at $41.00 each but the UPS ground shipping is costly due to the total 82 pound weight, or about $1.00 per pound. They are made of vulcanized rubber and have a pronounced oily rubber smell prevailing in the room when you first take them out of the box. I helped to disperse this by leaving the window and door open all day with only the fan on the HVAC operating (my dedicated room has its own HVAC).
This is the best $158.00 I have ever spent. Seriously, this is like getting an entirely new music library and loudspeakers at once without spending exorbitant amounts of money on high end audiophile approved products.