I have used them both ways. Presently using them on 30" stands with the Maverick A1 tube integrated and D1 tube DAC with killer results. They are quite punchy and like to be pushed. Well pushed with the little 20 wpc A1 integrated anyway.

have also used them desktop and as a bookshelf speaker (front ported) in a dedicated TV enclosure.
These are fun lively and musical single drivers.