I'm looking for various opinions regarding placement of my center channel speaker ( KEF 200C, measures approx 30 inches wide by 7.5 high and 8 deep ). Currently, it isn't an issue since it is residing on top of my 36 inch Sony HDTV CRT. However, in next couple months, I'm planning on going to a 60 inch set ( LCD RP, or DLP, etc ) but desire both high quality sound as well as good cosmetics. Furniture wise, I am planning on custom building a wooden rack very similar to the Salamander Synergy Triple 20 series. I like the idea of ventilated doors while at same time hiding all the HT gear ( sorry Outlaws lol, but it's just better heard and not seen ). So, my question is this.. is it better to go above the TV with the center channel or below? I have reservations about placing the center chanel inside the cabinet due to the sound aspects, but it is an option. Another option may be to place the center channel in front of the set, assuming the set sits up high enough to accomodate. Other option is to build a shelf that will go above the set.
My other goal is for the audio rack below the set to be no more than 18 inches tall to keep the height of the 60 inch set reasonable. Thanks for any input!