Creating a Soundproof Studio with Acoustic Excellence

A soundproof studio is a dedicated space that has been designed and treated Thermo Acoustic Liners to block exterior noise from entering and also prevent interior sounds from leaving the room. There are a few key reasons why musicians, vocalists, podcasters, and other content creators benefit from creating a soundproof studio:

Noise isolation

A properly soundproofed studio allows you to record audio or rehearse instruments without audible interference from outside noises like traffic, appliances, voices, and more.

Sound containment

The studio prevents audio within the room, like loud amplified instruments or vocals, from escaping and disturbing neighbors, family members, or coworkers in adjacent spaces.

Acoustic clarity

Soundproofing and acoustic treatments provide a clean, dry recording environment where ambient noise is minimized for high-quality audio production.

Some common types of projects that utilize home soundproof studios include music recording, vocal tracking, voiceovers, podcasting, YouTube content, and music production/editing. With the right design and treatments, any room can be transformed into an effective soundproof studio space.

Designing an Acoustically Excellent Studio Space

Choosing the Right Location

When planning a home studio, the room location is an important initial consideration. An ideal spot is separate from the main living areas to reduce ambient noise interference. The dedicated use of the space also allows for proper soundproofing treatments. Some additional location factors to ponder include:

Distance from noise sources

Choose a room away from noisy appliances, HVAC systems, busy roads, or foot traffic areas.

Room shape

Long narrow rooms typically work better than square spaces. Aim for a length to width ratio of 1.5:1 or greater.

Room size

At least 100-150 sq ft is recommended for an effective tracking space. Bigger allows for more advanced acoustic treatments.

Studio Layout and Design

Once a room is selected, careful planning of the studio layout and initial design assists the acoustic success. Consider these elements:

Wall placement

Arrange furniture and gear along the perimeter to maximize wall space for panels.

Isolation from adjacent rooms

Add green glue or resilient channel backing to drywall seams to break transmission.

Studio furniture

Include a vocal booth, mixing console, Soundproof Foam Sheet treatment panels, and computer workstation.

Isolation booths

Portable or permanent booths help isolate loud sources like drums.

Doors and windows

Identify routes of sound transfer like plumbing/electric and seal ductwork. Double pane glass or acoustic sealant furthers isolation.

Acoustic Treatment for Walls, Ceiling, and Floors

Proper absorption and diffusion on all room surfaces are key. Some common acoustic treatment options include:

Fiberglass or mineral wool panels

Inexpensive and effective. Place on reflection points and first reflections.

Acoustic tile

Dropped T-grid ceilings provide absorption. Strategic placement suspends speakers at ear level.

Bass traps

Corners are primary reflection points. Traps utilize thick resonant material like fiberglass to soak up low frequencies.

Soundproofing the Studio

With the initial design and space planning done, comprehensively soundproofing the studio is the next essential step. This significantly improves isolation from exterior noises and keeps sounds contained within.

Soundproofing Walls, Doors, and Windows

Walls require special treatment, and doors/windows need sealing:

Walls

Installing two layers of drywall with Green Glue damping compound or resilient channel increases mass and breaks transmission. Converting wall studs improves performance.

Doors

Solid core doors with acoustical gaskets create an airtight seal when closed. Adding portalast seals reduces sound travel around edges and hinges.

Windows

Heavier dual-pane glass gives greatest attenuation. Apply acoustical sealant around entire perimeter to limit any air gaps. Insulating and sealing the window frame provides further isolation.

Additional Soundproofing Methods

Thorough sealing is crucial:

Air sealing

Caulking, weatherstripping and expanding foam insulation seals cracks that allow sound to penetrate.

Wall plates/outlets

Replace standard wall plates covering electrical sockets with closed cell foam models to block sound traveling through walls.

WallIntersection sealing

Extra attention where walls meet floors, ceilings or other walls using resilient channels, isolation clips and acoustic sealants.

HVAC sealing

Duct work should not connect adjacent rooms. Seal ventilation grill slots to prevent noise leakage.