From everything I've seen and heard, plus customer reports, the move to the 45 degree setup is a big deal for the Sound Labs. Imaging is much more precise and the speaker seems easier to drive too; apparently the impedance curve is more benign even if you have the newer back plate.Mine are 90 degree - my current room is 20 feet wide. Today playing with VTL 7.5 III - Siegfried II - they really love energy!