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[the_wonderchild]

I have a large pair of stereo speakers which are 64cm (h) x 28cm (d) x 36(w) and each contain a 10'' sub and 3 x 2'' drivers (which i think are for the midrange). I have them connected up to a reciever which is quite powerful, and need help configuring the bass, treble and midrange to sound its best. I know that i should configure them to how i like them but if it was up to me all the dials would be on full!

Each of the bass, midrange and treble dials goes from -10 to 10 and i would like to know if anyone could recommend a setting which i should try or if there is a common guideline for good tone and sound.

IT is a "Realistic STA-225 AM/FM STEREO RECIEVER" with 2 Optimus 5B Loudspeakers.

THANKS

[The_Hi_End]

put all controls at zero and try adjusting the sound by moving your speakers around...
here's a good link for positioning your speakers: cardas

[dnsey]

I know that i should configure them to how i like them but if it was up to me all the dials would be on full!

Who are you trying to please?
I guess we've all been there at some time, and if you like it that way, why not?

On the other hand, if you're going for best fidelity your ears are the best guide.

As The-High-End says, start with everything level, and experiment with positioning first, bearing in mind the 'live' sound compared with the reproduced sound.

When you've found the optimum (or best compromise) position, there may well be some advantage in adjusting the amp's controls, unless your speakers are 'perfect'! Use a number of good acoustic recordings (according to your taste) with a neutral tonal balance, and make *small* adjustments (it's unlikely that you will need to go beyond +- 2 at the most) of one band at a time, taking time to listen carefully to the results - 'impressive' is not usually the same as 'realistic'.
When you've found the best settings (which might take days or weeks of intemittent listening - the brain/ear becomes fatigued quickly), go to a live concert, and listen to your system as soon as you get home. If you've made the previous adjustments carefully, only very small tweaks will be required to optimise the balance.

Having said all that, don't be surprised if a large proportion of your recordings have a balance which is 'way off', and you need to make futher adjustments to get the best from them!