Positioning Vandersteens

Why not take them off the stands as a first try? 

Or lower the front, it might be easier depending on how the stands work. Worst case, you could always consider a higher seat. A pillow or two would let you test that theory before wasting any money. Cheers,
Spencer

Jimspov, not sure if you bought new or used, but the manual gives a detailed procedure for setting the speakers up.  If you don't have the manual the Vandersteen website has one.  Assuming they are new, before making sound judgements let the speakers get at least 100 hours on them.  The other thing not stated is what effect does standing up give?  More high frequencies or less? If you like more high frequencies then the tilt needs to be less towards the rear.  If you like less high frequencies then the tilt needs to be more towards the rear, but be careful not to tilt too much!  Getting less high frequencies, though, may be an indication of something else not quite right, but that is too hard to elaborate on.

I would suggest a call to Vandersteen. Richard answers questions promptly and will give you the best answer. 
As Pmotz said your situation is hard to diagnose without more information-like room size, speaker position, other components.
I own 3a sigs, so I can't speak for the 1ci's, but knowing Vandersteen, I don't think you should hear better sound reproduction when higher up- Unless you are sitting on the floor.

Thanks for the responses all.

I have sent an e-mail to Richard. I have found in the past he is very responsive.

I purchased the speakers new in July and have been through the manual. My problem is the opposite of what I would expect.

By better sound I mean fuller. I hear much more detail, especially in the low end. It is actually quite incredible what I do hear. I want that sound!