The main couch in this room is 11 feet back from the main speakers; the surounds are likewise 11 feet behind the listener. What do you consider a "good distance?"

Also, how would a QS8 sit on a bookshelf? Is there some type of stand available that would raise the bottom driver a few inches above the shelf?

The wife is not keen at all in any attachments going into the walls; I'm pushing her interior style opinions with any speaker as large as the M80 as it is...I'd rather not pull the tail on the cat any more than I have to.