Whether you are creating a recording studio at home or in another location, the goals of reducing sound transmission and enhancing acoustical quality remain the same. A recording studio refers to a room where you intend to practice a musical instrument or record music, and the recommended soundproofing treatments differ from those recommended for a room where a band practices. Building a recording studio involves the steps of containing noise within the room, blocking outside noise from entering the room and finally enhancing the acoustics within the room for optimal sound quality.
Like many types of soundproofing projects, the first phase in developing a recording studio involves isolating the room by preventing sound transmission through the walls and ceilings of the room, to prevent both outside noise from bleeding into the room and sound from inside the studio from being transmitted out. Wall sound reduction treatments can be incorporated into the construction phase of a room, or may be easily applied in rooms with existing walls. The key to effective wall soundproofing is establishing a disconnection from the wall surface and increasing the density of the structure. Common studs in adjoining rooms allow sound waves to travel freely between rooms, which is what will be negated through the establishment a separated, denser structure.
Adding density to a wall simply involves covering the surface with a mass loaded vinyl soundproofing membrane, such as dB-Bloc. The added density will restrain the wall’s ability to vibrate, thus inhibiting its tendency to transmit sound into and out of the studio. Secondly, a disconnection from the walls must be established to prevent sound waves from being transmitted easily through the walls to adjoining rooms and beyond. Creating such a disconnection involves first attaching horizontal furring strips to the wall in regular intervals from ceiling to floor, about sixteen inches apart as a general recommendation. Next a new layer of drywall will be affixed to the strips, essentially creating a second wall layer. The technique of increasing density and establishing a disconnection serves to reduce or eliminate sound transmission through the walls of the studio. Ceilings also provide a common surface for sound transmission throughout different rooms of a home or building. Ceiling soundproofing treatments are available in a variety of styles, and a soundproofing professional can recommend the appropriate ceiling treatment that is sufficient for the unique characteristics of your studio.
Obtaining optimal acoustical quality within a recording studio is the ultimate goal. Thus, a studio should also be treated to reduce sound reflections within the room in order to improve acoustical quality in the studio. Sound absorption panels are easily installed solutions that are designed to be positioned throughout the room to capture sound and reduce reverberations. Again, it is advised to consult a soundproofing professional for recommendations tailored to your room dimensions and application.
By treating the causes of sound transmission between rooms and controlling reverberations within the room, you can create a music recording studio capable of delivering the high quality acoustics you desire.
