Glen, it isn't entirely clear whether you're you're talking about the back surround speakers in a 7.1 setup or the side surround speakers in a 5.1 setup(which some still refer to as "rear"). More info would be helpful, but if it's the former, they should be about 2-3' above ear level and separated by about the same distance as they are behind the listening position.

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Enjoy the music, not the equipment.