The optimum position for a speaker's placement is rarely in the first spot they're placed. Trial and error is the only way to determine where the speakers will sound the best, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The equipment stand is a surprisingly important part of any home stereo system. Beyond aesthetics alone, there is performance and convenience to consider. The open-air design lets the equipment run cooler and allows very easy access to the rear of components.
Metal stands, with their weight and density, tend to perform better than wooden stands.
Large wood entertainment centers are very popular and attractive but they can severely compromise the sound of the system. These wall-units reflect a large portion of your speakers sound, restrict ventilation and cable access, and totally ignore vibration. Remember, vibration is detrimental to sound reproduction. The more vibration you can control the better. Many of the open-air cabinets use floor spikes and shelf spikes to reduce vibration.