Are you looking for a way to enhance your home studio’s acoustic performance without breaking the bank? If so, acoustic panels may be just what you need. These panels are designed to absorb sound waves, reducing echoes and other unwanted noise in your recording space.
But not all acoustic panels are created equal. That’s why I decided to make my own, using acoustic panel board and an Arduino-midi-control system. Here’s how I did it:
Step 1: Gather materials
To make your own acoustic panels, you’ll need the following materials:
- Acoustic panel board (I used a brand name, but you can use whatever is available in your area)
- Fabric (I used burlap, but any breathable material will work)
- Frame material (I used 1x3 pine boards)
- Insulation (I used Roxul Safe'n'Sound)
- Adhesive (I used spray adhesive)
- Staples
- Arduino-midi-control system
Step 2: Build the frames
Cut your frame material into four pieces to create a square or rectangle shape that matches the size of your acoustic panel board. You’ll need two longer pieces and two shorter pieces for each frame. Use a miter saw or circular saw to make the cuts.
Once you’ve cut your frame pieces, assemble them using wood glue and screws. Make sure your corners are square and the frame is sturdy.
Step 3: Prepare the insulation
Measure and cut your insulation to fit inside your frame. I used Roxul Safe'n'Sound, which is a safe and environmentally friendly option for acoustic panels. Simply use a saw or knife to cut it to size.
Step 4: Wrap the board in fabric
Unroll your fabric and lay it out on a flat surface. Place your acoustic panel board face down on the fabric, and use a staple gun to staple the fabric to the back of the board. Make sure the fabric is tight and there are no wrinkles or bunches.
Step 5: Attach the insulation
Use spray adhesive to attach your insulation to the back of your wrapped acoustic panel board. Make sure the insulation is centered and flush with the edges of the board.
Step 6: Install the panel in the frame
Place your wrapped and insulated board into your frame. Use a staple gun to staple the fabric to the back of the frame, securing the board in place. Repeat with the remaining panels.
Step 7: Install the Arduino-midi-control system
Now it’s time to take your acoustic panels to the next level. Use an Arduino-midi-control system to automate the positioning of your panels. This will allow you to adjust the acoustic properties of your room based on your needs.
At this point, you can start experimenting with different combinations of panel placements to find the best acoustic performance. Try varying the distance between panels, the angle of the panels, and the overall number of panels.
In conclusion, making your own acoustic panels with acoustic panel board is an affordable and effective way to improve the acoustics of your home studio. By adding an Arduino-midi-control system, you can take your panels to the next level and achieve the perfect sound for your recordings. So what are you waiting for? Start building today!