I am a bit puzzled why you recommend sitting against the wall. I have been in quite a few concert halls where against the wall can be a crappy, usually because of overhangs and odd configurations. Yes I am aware that there can be more bass against the back wall, even in a listening room, but a concert halls vary so much.
Personally, I prefer sitting in the front row of the highest level available (up with the Gods) slightly to the side where I can see the pianist's hands. The view is better and I perceive better treble that is not muffled by a host of heads sitting in front of me. I would agree with your comments about poor sound in the orchestral seats on the floor or at any upper level which is not the top level. I went to a lot of concerts in the Academy of Music in Philly and experienced the sound from quite a few different seats. It is a very 'dry' hall but the orchestra was incredibly loud, much louder than in the new Verizon Hall.
http://www.geoffreygoldbergphotography.com/gallery/academy-of-music-philadelphia-pa/And yes, my eventual seats were in the front row looking down on the chandelier.
Of course sitting behind the orchestra is an interesting experience if not ideal. If you are seated behind the timpani you really get to hear it live.
ray