I have the wife agreeing to my building the ART arrays. However, she doesn't want them placed 2 ft. or so from the wall. Our living room has a fireplace in the center of the end wall(Plasma TV is mounted above it) with bookcases on either side, so the entire end wall is occupied. She would prefer the arrays be placed on either side of the fireplace stone, as close to the wall as possible. She does not want the bookcases concealed.

I already have the MDF to start construction, but have been hesitant to order drivers/x-over parts until I get the answer to this dilemna.

I understand the port for the arrays is in the rear, my question is, would it make a difference if the cabinets were ported on the sides so that they can be placed closer to the wall (about 6 inches is what she's compromising with, although I may get closer to 12). Also, would the close proximity to the rear wall have any MAJOR adverse effects on the acoustical quality?

I'm ready to go on this, just want to be safe rather than sorry. As always, any info on this is GREATLY appreciated!!!!
Thanks,
Rich

First of all, you can put the port anywhere you want as long as you have at least 2 inches for it. You can even put it in the front. Placement of the port is not really an issue except for the need of at least two inches.

Second, mine are about 6 inches from the walls. Unlike MINIATURE MUSIC(point source speakers), the array puts out a cylindrical wall of sound in the near field without much reflection at all. So, as far as I know, proximity to the wall is less of an issue, and six inches with the array angled to your seated position should be fine.

I await hearing from Thylantyr or Jim Griffin for the definitive answer.

Good luck on your project. You won't regret giving up MINIATURE MUSIC for the real thing,

Marlboro

Thanks a bunch! Believe me, the wife wasn't going to prevent my first array project, but I needed ammo to convince her to prevent a few days in the doghouse. At this point, I would like to say that I LOVE THIS FORUM!!! I am bored with micromonitor and small point source speakers. I am hooked on multiple drivers and excited about building this project. I will begin construction on cabinets this weekend, and I will keep you posted(pics will be in posts)on prgress and any questions I may have. Marlboro, you said it: "YOU WON'T REGRET GIVING UP MINIATRUE MUSIC FOR THE REAL THING." Point taken!!!!!!
Again, thanks guys......just be here to help with the construction should I need you.
Rich