Creating a safe and comfortable space for recording and mixing music requires proper planning and implementation of quality acoustic treatments. One of the most significant considerations is the size of the studio space. A small room needs as much attention as a large one to ensure a good sound quality. In this article, we'll discuss the necessary steps to take when setting up a small vocal/mixing recording studio with efficient small room acoustic treatment.
Room Dimensions
The first step in acoustic treatment is to take the room measurements. The length, width, and height of your studio area will significantly affect the sound quality. Room dimension calculations can be done using online tools, or consulting audio specialists will provide a better result. You can use these results to determine the ideal number of panels, where to place treatments, and how to angle them to eliminate room modes, standing waves, and flutter echoes.
Sound Absorption
The next step is to choose the right acoustic panels that suit your space requirements and budget. Typically, small rooms benefit from broadband absorption panels that work well with low-frequencies. These types of panels are made of mineral wool and fiberglass, and their thickness determines their effectiveness. How thick the panel should be depends on the size of the room, how much noise you need to absorb, and the budget. You can opt for focal points, commonly based on where the sound originates, or scattered throughout the room, which offers better sound quality.
Bass Traps
Even though you'll install absorption panels, they won't be enough to eliminate all low-frequency sounds. Bass traps are essential in minimizing low-frequency problems by lowering resonances and standing waves. Small rooms with low ceilings may pose a challenge as professionals recommend positioning bass traps in front of walls to help stop standing waves from accumulating. They also recommend installing a few strategically placed bass traps in the corners. Just like the absorption panels, thicker traps are ideal for lower frequencies and smaller for higher frequencies.
Diffusion
Diffusers help scatter sound waves evenly around the room, making the ambiance more natural and open. Their purpose is to break up or scatter standing waves by helping to distribute the sound around the room evenly. Diffusers come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, but you need to choose one that suits your room measurements and budget. However, these panels can be expensive, especially if you're working with a tight budget.
Acoustic Foam
Acoustic foam is the most common form of acoustic treatment, particularly for small studios. They are easy to install, affordable, and come in various shapes, sizes, and thicknesses. While foam may look nice, it's ideal for controlling the middle and high frequencies. It's not effective in reducing bass frequencies, which a room can never have enough of, and it doesn't address room modes and standing waves.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acoustic treatment is an essential element in creating a satisfactory recording and mixing space, particularly in small rooms. You need to take respective room measurements, optimize acoustic panels to fit your budget, install bass traps, and use diffusers for a more natural sound. Remember that it's essential to balance sound absorption, diffusion, and reflection properties in any acoustic treatment plan.
If you're looking for small room acoustic treatment products, check out our website to find the best panels, foams, and traps for your recording room. We have a range of acoustic treatment products to suit your budget, and our team is always on standby to offer assistance whenever you need it.