ESC 230 System (serv.man7) - JBL Audio User Guide / Operation Manual. Page 4

For optimum performance, follow these guidelines when placing the speakers.

Place the center speaker even with the left and
right speakers, or slightly behind them.

Place all three front speakers at approximately the
same height (height of ears preferable).

Place the front left and right speakers 
on the sides of the television. The distance
between them should be the same as the
distance from the television to the listener.
The center-channel speaker should be
placed on top of the television.

The surround speakers should be placed 5'– 6' high and
parallel to the main listening area, facing each other.
Alternatively, they may be mounted on a wall behind the
listening area, facing forward.