Toe-in aiming of front loudspeakers minimizes problematic side-wall reflections

Evidence

Figure 8.7(b) and (c) contrast what happens with different loudspeaker aiming. In (b) the listener benefits from the best on-axis direct sound that most well-designed loudspeakers radiate, as well as much-reduced reflected energy from the side wall. Because a loudspeaker is in a rectangular enclosure with a flat back does not mean that it should be oriented with the back parallel to the wall—visual appearances notwithstanding. In-wall front loudspeakers need to be installed in angled baffles. — Toole, Floyd E, Sound reproduction- the acoustics and…, 804