To solve this problem, speakers are produced in a range of sizes, and with different mounting options. Floor speakers are at the bulkier side of the scale. These speakers are large, free standing units that can be several feet high, or taller. To position this type of speaker safely you will need enough room to move around them without causing a trip hazard – but the benefit is that sound quality is generally extremely good. This is because the designers have not had to make any compromises to reduce the size of the speaker, allowing them to focus on putting together quality drivers and other components.

If, however, you are working with a smaller area, you can still get great sound from ‘bookshelf speakers’, whether mounted on an actual shelf as the name implies, or mounted using a wall or ceiling bracket. These speakers can be significantly smaller than floor speakers, and for all but the pickiest audiophiles they are likely to be more than good enough – particularly if a little more is spent on a good brand. One buying tip to note – if budget is an issue, spend more on the front speakers than the rear ones – the front speakers do the lion’s share of the work.

Once you have settled on a type and model of speaker, the next step is to optimize for the seating position. The ideal speaker placement for surround sound is to have the front and rear speakers equally distant from the main listening position, and at or slightly above ear level. After setting up your home theater, getting the placement right, tidying cables, and figuring out how to use your new system, you will be more than ready to relax and enjoy it!

Amongst the line of speakers, portable MP3 speakers are the ones who are smallest in size, so they should be focused on. To prolong the lifespan of your speakers, and maintain its performance, take a look at the following checklist:

Make sure that

• They are not placed on wet or moist surfaces.

- Any electronic device that is placed over wet and/or moist surfaces is bound to have circuit problems especially when the device is currently running.

• They are well dusted-off.

- Dusts may accumulate inside the device, and when it stays there for a long time, it may affect the internal

system of your speaker.

• Their batteries are removed when not used.

- Batteries when left inside the speaker for a long time tend to produce moist upon expiration, and moisture is bad for almost all electronic devices.

• Sharp objects are not anywhere near them.

- If you want to maintain the colorful and stylish appearance of your speaker, keep sharp objects away from it. You would not want any scratches on your cool speaker, would you?

• When inside bags, they should have their own cases as much as possible.
  This is because there are so many things inside our bags, namely keys, pens, combs, and even water or juice. Moisture and scratches are, again, not good for your speakers.

Having read this checklist does not automatically make your speaker last longer, which just means that careful positioning and protection of your speakers should be regularly done. Discipline is a must in taking care of your device.