Afleveringen
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We all want the dream studio: epic mix room, all the gear, cool architecture, big control room window, epic live room, tall ceilings, a bathroom, lots of doors... The list goes on and on. I always want you to dream, but at some point we have to stop and face reality.If you have a small budget of $20k-30k to build your soundproof home recording studio, the truth is you can't have every aspect of what you want, but you can still have what you need. In this lesson I am going to break down how to save massively on your studio build and still get what you want.
1) Make A Priorities List
This sounds so basic, but it is often overlooked. I make each of my clients prioritize what they need most in their home recording studio.
This could be sound isolation. It could be space over acoustics. It could be acoustics over sound isolation. It could be a great room for mixing only and recording bands is not that important.
You get the idea. The lower your budget the more you need to design towards that top number one priority over everything else. Yes, you want it all, but you need one or two things max and that will get you where you need to go with limited cash on hand.
2) Square Footage Is the Easiest Way To Save
When a potential client comes to me and says they only have $20k to build their studio I always ask them what the square footage of the usable space in their studio will be. The singe easiest way to shrink a budget is to shrink the studio.
Not what you wanted to hear, but simple saves. Cut out the fluff! You don't need the live room, you don't need the iso-room. The bathroom can wait. Focus on what is most important to do the work you want to do in that room and design with that in mind.
3) Keep It Rectangle
Yes, we all see the fancy angled walls and cool shapes. If you want to save money you must cut out complex angles. Angles = $$$. Construction costs money and basic construction is expensive. Then you add soundproofing on top of it and the price goes up. Then you want to add a ton of complexity to your framing and drive that cost up even more?
If you want to save keep your designed room simple. Keep it a rectangle and you will save.
4) One door, no windows
You want to know what costs a lot of money? Soundproof doors and windows. You want to know what lets out the most sound in soundproofing? Doors and windows! If you want great results at a fraction of the price keep your studio down to one door. Each door adds $3k to the budget and that is on the low end.
Windows also cost a fortune. How badly do you need that control room window? Do you really need a ton of natural light? Each window costs about $100/square foot. If you want a lot of windows it will cost you and you will lower the isolation of your room.
Again, it comes back to priorities. If natural light is priority one than add windows. If you need sound isolation on a budget, cut them out.
5) Don't Use Green Glue, Rockwool or Sonopan
Lastly, there are a lot of companies that want to sell you the easy fix. Just buy rockwool and you will have soundproofing for your recording studio. Or Sonopan does everything, you don't need to decouple your walls. What about Green Glue or carpet glue. Just add glue and suddently you get loads more isolation.
If it seems to good to be true it is because it is. There is nothing sexy about soundproofing. It is basic, you only need basic materials like lumber, drywall and a few isolation clips, the rest is just marketing meant to grow your budget and overcomplicate your build.
Conclusion:
If there is one phrase I would hope you repeat like a mantra as you build your studio it is "simple saves." If you keep that in the back of your mind at every phase of your project you will get the studio you need and meet your budget goals. That is a win win all the way around.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing, Dan Ferguson from Riff Haven Audio who recently finished his epic new home recording studio. In this podcast format video we go over his process, key lessons he learned along the way and the amazing outcome he achieved doing this project 100% DIY.Not everybody wants to DIY, so if you watch this episode and decide your time and money is valuable and you want a PRO to help you get your dream studio then sign up for a soundproof clarity call at
Soundproof Clarity Call Application - https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/Step1
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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***SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT***
I am opening up a great new opportunity for those of you wanting professional studio consulting for a fraction of the cost. Until Thursday, January 16th, 2025 at 1pm CST I will have this first beta group open for enrollment. I am only accepting 15 applicants and 2 spot are already taken. This offer will be off the table after Thursday so don't delay. You can sign up at the link below:
Join Group Consulting
This week I am taking you behind the scenes of one of my favorite studio designs so far. This is for a client who has always wanted a studio of his own. His hard work and perseverance pays off with this gorgeous home studio that is an addition to his house.
In this episode you will learn about my soundproofing choices, my acoustic design, and HVAC, Window and door choices.
Let's dive in!
Want a studio like this in your backyard? Sign up for a free soundproof clarity call and let's make your dream recording studio a reality.
Soundproof Clarity Call Application - https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/Step1
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Wanna DIT (Do It Together)? Jump on a free 30 minute call with me. Fill out the application here: Soundproof Clarity Call Application - https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/Step1
Recently, someone in the Soundproof Your Studio community shared this frustration:
âThe more YouTube I watch, the more confused I get about everything.â
Sound familiar? Many of us can relateâespecially when it comes to soundproofing and room acoustics.
One key difference between an expert and an amateur is the ability to sift through information, stick to proven methods, and ignore the noise. YouTube is a fantastic resource, but itâs also a chaotic mix of opinions, which can lead to information overload.
So, whatâs the solution? How do you cut through the clutter and start making progress on your studio?
In this article, Iâll guide you through actionable steps to move beyond endless YouTube searches and start creating a recording studio tailored to your budget. I emphasize budget because it directly impacts whatâs realistic for you right now.
Letâs dive in and find out where you are on your soundproofing journey!
Budget: Under $5KIf youâre working with less than $5,000, true soundproofing is off the tableâitâs just not cost-effective. But you can still dramatically improve your room acoustics.
Hereâs how to allocate your budget:
1. Bass Traps: Start with bass traps in all four corners of your room.
2. Reflection-Free Zone (RFZ): Place acoustic panels to your left and right on the walls and add a ceiling cloud above your listening position.
3. Back Wall Absorption: Invest in as much absorption as you can afford for the rear wall. While diffusion is an option, absorption provides more value for your money.
4. Monitors: Any remaining budget should go toward the best monitors you can afford.
Budget: $20Kâ$30KNotice the big jump? Thatâs because soundproofing requires a significant investment to be effective. Anything less than $20K risks mediocre results.
With this budget, you can build a small studio in your garage or basement (under 300 sq. ft.). Hereâs what to prioritize:
⢠Soundproofing Materials:
⢠Two layers of drywall.
⢠Decoupling (e.g., double-wall systems or hush frame rafts).
⢠HVAC & Ventilation:
⢠A mini split for climate control.
⢠An ERV/HRV for fresh air with a baffle box to reduce noise.
⢠Doors: Stick with a single ISO-Store HDLF doorâno windows.
Youâll likely need to DIY most of the work or hire a handy, resourceful contractor. For acoustics, follow the same approach as the Under $5K budget.
Budget: $50Kâ$100KWith this range, the process becomes more streamlined. Youâll have the freedom to:
⢠Build a small standalone studio in your backyard or a larger studio in your garage or basement.
⢠Hire qualified contractors and even consult a studio designer to avoid costly mistakes.
⢠Invest in custom acoustic treatment for a polished, professional look.
However, the size of the studio remains a limitation. Features like multiple rooms, control windows, or complex HVAC systems will push you closer to $100K. To maximize value, focus on quality and results without overextending yourself.
Budget: $150K+This is where the real fun begins. With this budget:
⢠Hire Experts: Work with a professional studio designer and a top-tier contractor for premium results.
⢠Dream Big: Explore custom acoustics, high-quality isolation, and larger spaces with multiple doors and windows while maintaining performance.
⢠Gear Up: Allocate funds for the best gear to complement your studio.
At this level, most people avoid DIY entirely. Instead, they focus on their craft while the experts handle the heavy lifting.
ConclusionI hope this article helps you find clarity on your studio journey. If your budget is on the smaller side, consider waiting and saving to build your dream studio right. If youâre ready to invest now, I hope this breakdown gives you a roadmap for success.
Ready to do it right the first time?
Fill out the application below to work with a professional studio designer. As I always say, the stakes are too high to DIY.
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If youâre committed to a DIY project, check out my free soundproofing workshop below.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Back in the early days of this community I made a video on how to build a soundproof window. Since, that video first came out I have gone through many iterations of how best to soundproof a window. This video is the most up to date method I use for soundproofing windows.
If you are interested in DIT (Do It Together) than stop the endless research and Youtube rabbit holes and join me for a 30 min consulting call to see if I would be a key asset on your team for building your dream home recording studio. If you value your time and money than fill out the application below:
Soundproof Clarity Call Application - https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/Step1
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Have you ever dreamed of transforming an ordinary space into a world-class recording studio? I just finished a set of plans for a client whoâs doing exactly thatâconverting half his garage into the studio of his dreams.
In my latest video, I take you behind the scenes to break down the details of this exciting project. From soundproofing strategies to HVAC solutions, custom door designs, and innovative baffle boxes, Iâll walk you through how we tackled the challenges of turning a garage into a pro-grade recording space.
Whether youâre planning your own studio or just love geeking out over design, youâll find plenty of inspiration and tips in this video.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
I recently sat down with my client, AJ to discuss his new studio I designed in his backyard. He is a metal drummer and wanted something super soundproof, so we went all out with the soundproofing. Learn all about what we did in this special podcast episode.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
This week I am doing something a little different. I will be showcasing my client's garage conversion home studio and interviewing him. This will be more like a podcast, but with great b roll of this finished studio and some of the build to show how this amazing transformation took place.
If you are building any recording studio, but certainly one in a garage, this is one episode you cannot miss!
If you are building a recording studio and want to hire me to help you design and build it then sign up for a free soundproof clarity call:
Soundproof Clarity Call Application
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Choosing the wrong location for your studio can lead to:
90% More ProblemsIncreased BudgetWorse Results for More InvestmentFor these reasons, selecting the right place to build your studio is the single most important decision you can make.
The Best Place to Build Your Studio: The BackyardHands down, the best location for your studio is in a backyard. Starting from scratch ensures youâll have:
Proper isolationAn easy design processStreamlined investment with better long-term valueWhile building in your backyard may cost more initially than converting your garage or basement, the long-term value far outweighs the upfront expense. Think of it as an investment, not just an expenditure.
For instance, you might think building in your garage will only cost around $20kâjust throw in some 2x4s and drywall, and youâre good to go. But not so fast. Did you account for:
Ducting that canât be moved?Water lines poking through the walls?Removing and replacing the garage door with a proper wall?Before you know it, youâre spending $30â50k on a small, compromised space. By contrast, building in your backyard for $75k gives you a dream studio that not only meets your needs but also increases your property value. Thatâs a win-win.
The Second Best Place to Build Your Studio: The GarageYour garage comes in as the second-best location. While not as ideal as starting from scratch, a garage can still be a great option. Compared to a basement, garages typically offer:
Higher ceilingsThe potential for detached structuresFewer obstacles like wires, pipes, and odd shapesThat said, garages still present challenges and costs, especially if youâre aiming for top-notch soundproofing. When scouting for an ideal garage space, look for:
A level concrete slabThe ability to raise the ceiling with cathedral framingAn outer shell with existing mass for soundproofingThe Third Best Place to Build Your Studio: The BasementFinally, we have the basement. While a basement can work in certain situations, it tends to present more challenges:
Low ceilings, which limit flexibilityNooks and crannies that complicate designLoud HVAC systems that are hard to isolateFlooding risks, which can damage high-end electrical equipmentBasements often require additional isolation to prevent sound transmission to the rest of the house above. This means adding extra drywall layers, which can further reduce ceiling height. If you can avoid the basement, do so.
Conclusion: Location is EverythingChoosing the right location is the most critical decision in soundproof studio design. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option and think about the value youâre getting for your money.
In most cases, investing an additional $20â25k to build in your backyard or attach a studio to your house will deliver significantly better results in the long term.
Ready to Design Your Dream Studio?If youâre looking for a professional touch to design your ideal home studio, book a call to see how I can help bring your vision to life.
Book a Call
Prefer to take the DIY route? Check out my free soundproofing workshop below!
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Iâve been guilty of this myself, and I see clients fall into the same trap. Trying to design and build your studio simultaneously is a recipe for chaos. Thereâs a proper order to the process, but many of you might be putting the proverbial cart before the horse. Letâs break it down so you can avoid the most common pitfalls.
1) The Eager Beaver
The eager beaver canât wait to start swinging a hammer or firing a nail gun. Theyâve watched a few YouTube videos, maybe skimmed Home Recording Studio: Build It Like the Pros by Rod Gervais, and now theyâre itching to âdo somethingâanything!â
But hereâs the problem: eager beavers often skip critical steps, leading to costly mistakes. Maybe they miss an essential design detail or cut corners to save time, only to end up wasting $10,000 or more on rework.
Take your time. A professional-grade home recording studio (the kind you deserve) requires careful planning. Resist the urge to jump in without a well-thought-out plan. The payoff? A studio that far exceeds what you could have built as an eager beaver.
2) The Budget Piecemeal Approach
Starting your studio project without enough money saved is a fast track to frustration. You buy a few materials, run out of cash, pause to earn more, and then repeat the cycle. This chaotic approach slows progress, creates inefficiencies, and adds unnecessary stress.
Instead, save up the full amount before you start. Whether youâre hiring professionals or tackling the project DIY, have enough to cover materials, labor, and unforeseen expenses. Stick to your budget, and donât let scope creep turn your dream studio into a never-ending build. A clear plan and cash in the bank will save you time, money, and headaches.
3) The Chaos Drug
Letâs be honest: some people thrive on chaos. If you find yourself chasing the adrenaline rush of figuring things out as you go, take a step back.
Chaos is addictive, but it has no place in a studio build. Building a recording studio demands precision, planning, and patienceânot the "messy artist" mindset. This project isnât just about creativity; itâs about execution, and thereâs too much at stake (financially and emotionally) to let chaos take the wheel.
4) Systems = SuccessThe key to a successful studio build lies in your systems. Hereâs the roadmap to get it right:
Brainstorm Your Dream Studio
Dream big! Create a vision board, save Pinterest ideas, and build a playlist of inspirational studios. This is the fun partâenjoy it.Define Your Budget
Find your maximum spending threshold. Ask yourself, âWould I spend $20k? $50k? $100k?â When you hit your limit, youâve found your budget. Use this number as your guide before starting the design process.Design in CAD
Tools like SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Revit can help you visualize your studio. Youâll see how the space will come together, anticipate challenges, and plan for details like beams, HVAC, and electrical. Not a DIYer? Hire a studio designer to handle this step for you.Create Full Construction Plans
Whether youâre DIYing or hiring a contractor, detailed construction plans are essential. They prevent miscommunication and ensure the design matches your vision.Bid the Project
With your design finalized, gather quotes. Break down costs for materials and labor. If itâs over budget, revise the design before starting construction. This step ensures youâre not halfway through and $20k short.Build with Confidence
Conclusion
With a solid plan and budget, you can start building with peace of mind. Monitor progress carefullyârecording studios require more precision than typical home projects.Avoid the eager beaver mindset, the piecemeal approach, and the chaos drug. Instead, follow a systematic process to design and build your dream studio.
Ready to take the next step? You have two options:
Dive deeper into the DIY process with my Soundproofing Workshop.Save time and money by hiring help. Apply for a Soundproof Clarity Call to see if weâre a good fit for designing your dream studio together.Book a Call
Letâs make your dream studio a reality!
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
This week I am showing you the final video for a home recording studio I designed here in Nashville. This is one of my favorite studio designs to date and I am so excited to share the final results with you!
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Ever been in the middle of shredding on your guitar, feeling like a rock god, only to realize your neighbors arenât quite as pumped about your solo as you are? Yeah, weâve all been there. And if youâre into heavy metal, rock, or just need to keep your amp cranked, Iâve got the perfect solution.
Introducing⌠the DIY Guitar Amp Isolation Cabinet! In this weekâs video blog, Iâll walk you through exactly how I designed a custom cabinet to keep a clientâs amp rocking hard while staying whisper-quiet in the studio. Think of it as the soundproof fortress for your ampâlet it scream, without the world knowing!
Whether youâre looking to spare your family, your roommates, or even the neighborsâ pets, this setup will help you crank up the volume without turning up the tension in your home. đś
Take a look, and who knowsâyou might just be the proud owner of a soundproof amp fortress by the end of the day. Because letâs face it, your killer solos deserve to be played loud⌠even if only you can hear them. đ¤
Catch you on the other side of soundproofing!
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
If you've ever thought, âI donât need to fully soundproof my room; maybe I can just soundproof one wall and stop the noise on the other side,â then this article is for you!
In this lesson, I'll explore when you might be able to get away with partial soundproofing without extensive construction and when itâs better to save your money and avoid the project altogether. Letâs dive in!
Why Soundproofing Is Usually All or NothingYou may have heard me or others say, âSoundproofing is an all-or-nothing project,â and I stand by this 90% of the time. Sound expands in all directions in a 360-degree bubble, especially at low frequencies. This means sound doesnât just travel in a straight line through one wall into your roomâit also moves through floors, ceilings, windows, doors, HVAC ducts, and roofs.
For this reason, soundproofing only a shared wall with your neighbor might not stop unwanted noise. Letâs look at why this is the case.
1. A Soundproof Room Requires Mass on All Surfaces
In soundproofing, mass is the primary tool to block sound and reflect it back in the direction it came from. A solid 12-inch concrete wall, for example, will effectively stop most sound. The more mass we add, the less likely high, mid, and even low frequencies will pass through. For louder or lower frequencies, youâll need substantial mass on all walls, ceilings, and floors, including windows and doors.
2. A Soundproof Room Is Decoupled from the Outside World
After adding mass, the next essential step is decoupling the room from the outside structure. This means isolating the sound so it doesnât travel through structural elements like joists, studs, and drywall. Mass can block airborne noise, while decoupling prevents sound transmission through these structural pathways.
For example, if you put your ear to a metal railroad rail, youâll hear a train from miles away. Sound travels faster and more efficiently through solid materials than air, as it would through concrete. A concrete wall might stop airborne noise like traffic but wonât prevent sound from passing through its structure.
Consider a neighbor with a subwoofer on their floor. Even with a heavy wall, sound and bass vibrations will travel through the shared floor, making the wall less effective and wasting your investment in soundproofing.
3. A Soundproof Room Must Be Airtight
Finally, a soundproof room must be airtight. Sound, like water, can seep through even the smallest gaps. Have you ever closed a heavy door but still heard noise coming in around the edges? Or maybe youâve noticed sounds coming through an older homeâs air leaks?
Without airtight sealing around walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, and HVAC systems, sound can still enter or exit your room, undermining your soundproofing efforts.
When Can You Soundproof Halfway? Is It Possible?As I mentioned, thereâs a small percentage of cases (around 10%) where partial soundproofing might work. Hereâs when it might be viable:
You have a heavy concrete floor and ceiling.You donât have windows or doors near the wall you want to soundproof.There are no shared HVAC ducts with the room you want to block sound from.If you meet these conditions, you might get away with soundproofing a single âparty wallâ (the shared wall with a neighbor who hosts parties).
Keep in mind that even in these cases, halfway soundproofing offers no guarantees. The results are often unpredictable, so you need to carefully weigh the risks of a partial solution.
What About Light Soundproofing?Some people ask about âlight soundproofing,â usually meaning they donât want to spend a lot of money or time and donât need full noise blockage. You might consider light soundproofing if:
You donât need to block low frequencies and only want to reduce mid and high frequencies.Youâre not dealing with loud sounds, like a barking dog or a train horn.You donât make a lot of noise yourself, such as playing drums, using a subwoofer, or cranking up a guitar amp.If these criteria fit, you may be able to get away with lighter soundproofing measures. But if youâre trying to create a truly quiet space, this approach likely wonât be sufficient.
ConclusionAs you can see, in most cases, soundproofing is all or nothing. If youâre committed to doing it right, with the necessary financial and technical resources, then itâs worth the effort. Otherwise, itâs often better to leave the project until youâre ready to commit fully.
If youâre intrigued and want to learn more about soundproofing, check out my free soundproofing workshop (link below). Or, if youâre short on time and prefer to hire a professional, click the Soundproof Your Studio logo above to schedule a clarity call where I can learn more about your project.
Best of luck on your soundproofing journey!
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FREE Acoustic Treatment Guide: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/acoustic
If you have ever wondered how to build an acoustic cloud with a built in light or lights than this is your video. I go over the details of how I design acoustic clouds for my clients. Learn:
-how to build an acoustic cloud
-what fabric to use
-how to install a light and wire it to your cloud
-how to hang your acoustic clouds
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
In this episode I go over the main soundproof wall details most people miss when designing and building their soundproof walls.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
In this video I go over the best place to buy soundproof doors in North America, New Zealand/Australia and the UK/Europe.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
If youâve ever felt confused by electrical terms like âgroundingâ or âisolated ground,â trust me, youâre not alone! When I first started learning about how to properly wire my own home studio, I had no clue what it all meant, and Iâm a studio designer! Letâs break it down together in the simplest way possible.
Why Grounding Matters in Your Home StudioImagine youâre plugging in your gear, ready to record, and suddenly you hear a hum or buzz in your monitors. Whatâs causing that? Chances are, itâs an issue with your studioâs electrical grounding. Grounding is like giving the electrical system in your studio a path to safely return to the earthâthis keeps both you and your gear safe from electrical faults, and it helps eliminate noise in your audio.
But hereâs where things get trickyâjust like I was confused when I first learned about it, you might wonder: Canât I just plug my gear in and call it a day? Why all this talk about grounding? Well, not all grounding is created equal, and how you set it up can make a big difference in the sound of your recordings.
What the Heck is Star Grounding?When I first learned about star grounding, I didnât get it. I had one outlet for all my audio gear, and I thought, âIsnât that enough?â Turns out, not exactly.
In a normal electrical setup, all your equipment shares the same ground as everything else in your houseâlights, HVAC, appliances. This can cause ground loops, which are electrical problems that lead to noise and hum in your audio. To avoid this, star grounding is a way to isolate the ground for your audio equipment.
Hereâs the basic idea:
⢠Star grounding creates a dedicated, isolated path for the ground of your audio gear, keeping it separate from other systems like lighting or HVAC. This minimizes electrical noise and interference in your recordings.
Star Grounding Diagram -
Why My Setup Wasnât EnoughIn my studio, I had a 4-gang outlet where all my audio gear and computer were plugged in, and it was connected directly to its own circuit breaker. Thatâs not a bad startâeverything shared one ground, and I didnât hear any hum.
But hereâs what I learned: if your ground wire goes straight to the same ground that all your lights, air conditioning, and everything else use, thereâs still a chance that noise could sneak into your audio signal. So even though I didnât have any problems, there was still room to improve. And this is where star grounding comes in.
How Star Grounding WorksThink of star grounding like a bicycle wheel. At the center (the hub) is your main ground point, and all the ground wires from your audio equipment are the spokes connecting to it. This central hub (called the ground bus) is isolated from other systems in the house until it all ties back to the main electrical panel. Hereâs how you can do it:
1. Use Isolated Ground Outlets: For your studio gear, use special outlets called isolated ground receptacles. These are designed to keep the ground for your audio equipment separate from everything else.
2. Run a Separate Ground Wire: Instead of using the regular ground wire inside the Romex (your standard electrical wire), run a separate jacketed ground wire directly from the isolated ground outlets back to a dedicated ground bus. This ground bus collects all the grounds from your studio gear and then ties back to the main electrical panelâs ground.
3. Connect the Ground Bus to the Main Panel: At some point, everything needs to connect to the main panelâs ground. This is to comply with electrical codes (for safety) and to ensure that the system is properly grounded.
Why You Canât Skip Connecting to the Main GroundWhen I first learned about star grounding, I thought, âWhy canât I just have a separate earth ground for my studio?â That seemed like the best way to keep the ground isolated, right? But hereâs the thing: you canât have multiple earth grounds because it creates multiple paths for electricity to flow, which can lead to the very hum and noise youâre trying to avoid. This is called a ground loop.
By connecting everything back to the main panel, you make sure that all grounds in your house are at the same electrical potentialâmeaning, thereâs no voltage difference between them that could cause hums, interference, or worse, safety issues.
Simple Steps to Set Up Star Grounding⢠Step 1: Install isolated ground outlets for all your audio equipment. These outlets help keep the ground for your audio gear separate.
⢠Step 2: Run a separate ground wire from these outlets to a dedicated ground bus. This bus can either be in the panel or a separate location.
⢠Step 3: Connect the ground bus back to the main panelâs ground bar. This ensures safety and keeps everything at the same ground potential.
Do You Need Star Grounding?Now, if youâre like me and have a dedicated outlet thatâs working fine, you might not need to rush into setting up a star grounding system right away. If youâre not experiencing noise or hum issues, it might be enough. But if youâre building a studio from scratch, upgrading your electrical system, or want to future-proof your setup, star grounding is one of the best ways to eliminate noise and hum before they even have a chance to start.
Conclusion: Keep It Simple, Keep It QuietIf youâre overwhelmed by all this talk about grounding and wiring, donât worryâyou donât need to be an electrical expert to improve your home studioâs sound quality. Star grounding is just one tool in your arsenal, but it can make a huge difference in keeping your recordings clean and noise-free. Whether you choose to implement it now or later, just remember: the key is keeping your audio equipmentâs ground separate from everything else.
And if youâre ever unsure about how to set this up safely, hiring a qualified electrician who understands studio-grade electrical systems is always a good move.
Further Reading and Resources:
Coming from little to no understanding of electricity I had to learn everything about studio electrical from the ground up. The following resources are great for getting different perspectives on this and furthering your own research and understanding of studio electrical systems.
Power and Grounding for Audio and Video Systems A White Paper for the Real World â International Version Jim Brown Audio Systems Group, Inc. http://www.audiosystemsgroup.com/SurgeXPowerGround.pdf
Philip Richard Newell. Recording Studio Design. New York ; London, Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group, 2017. (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/4b7zyxd
Gervais, Rod. Home Recording Studio: Build It Like The Pros. 2nd Edition, Course Technology Cengage Learning, 2011. (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/48ONVF6
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
Iâve been exploring topics beyond soundproofing and room acoustics lately, and this week Iâm diving into lighting designs for your home studio. Below, Iâll share a few ways to light your studio like the pros, helping you achieve that dream studio look.
1. A Little Background on Lighting TheoryIâm a big fan of the Pretty Good Home model of home building, and if you havenât already, I highly recommend checking out their book Pretty Good House: A Guide to Creating Better Homes (affiliate link). Itâs been a great resource for my own designs, offering clean, renewable, and efficient strategies that apply to home studios as well.
One key aspect of the Pretty Good House method is following a few specific lighting rules:
Rule 1: Light What You Want to See
You could install lots of downlights to brighten the entire room, but thatâs not ideal. In a home recording studio, you want to focus on the essentialsâyour desk, instruments, and gear. Plan your lighting to effectively illuminate the areas you use the most.
Rule 2: Avoid Glare
This rule is all about ensuring you donât see the light bulbs directly. Using shades, narrow beam angles, and focusing the light helps guide it away from your eyes. While it can be tricky in practice, itâs a worthy goal to pursue.
Rule 3: Make Change Easier
Flexibility is key. Having just one switch to control all your lights isnât ideal. In a home studio, youâll want work lighting and mood lighting. The goal is to create layers of lighting options that give you control over the roomâs ambiance.
2. Which Type of Light Should You Use?This oneâs easy: LED lights. Theyâre the best choice today, especially if you value energy efficiency. You can opt for other lighting, but nothing beats LEDs in terms of longevity and control.
My personal favorite is the Philips Hue LED system, which I use in all my designs. Yes, theyâre more expensive, but you get what you pay for. Iâve tried cheaper color-changing lights in my studio, and they flickered and died within a year.
Philips Hue also comes with a sleek smartphone app that lets you control multiple lighting setups from your phone. Plus, these lights dim at the bulb level rather than through a switch, which helps reduce interference in your studioâa properly wired studio helps too, but thatâs a lesson for another day.
3. Studio Lighting TechniquesA) Use Philips Hue Slim Downlights in Your Acoustic Clouds
These are perfect for easy installation in an acoustic panel hanging from the ceiling. I like to use them in clouds to avoid cutting large holes in the ceiling. Instead, I run a small wire down to the acoustic panel, leaving only a tiny hole for the wire.
B) Use Philips Hue Light Strips for Backlighting
Philips Hue light strips are great for adding backlighting to the edges of your acoustic clouds, desks, computer monitors, or acoustic wall treatments. The possibilities are endless, and itâs a fantastic way to enhance the vibe and ambiance of your studio.
C) Opt for Track Lighting Over Downlighting
Track lighting helps with Rule 1: Light What You Want to See. Two carefully placed track lights can focus light exactly where itâs needed, illuminating key areas of your studio.
D) Keep Each Set of Lights on Its Own Switch
While dimmers arenât ideal, having separate switches for different lighting systems is a must. I usually place downlights on one switch, strip lights on another, and track lighting on a third. This way, you can easily control each type of lighting and fine-tune everything through your smartphone app.
ConclusionThe biggest takeaway for studio lighting is to stay creative and trust your artistic instincts to set the vibe and mood for your workspace. Donât skimp on lightingâstick to LED systems and embrace color-changing lights. While Iâm partial to Philips Hue, there are other great high-end brands out there as well.
Works Cited:
Kolbert, Dan, et al. Pretty Good House: A Guide to Creating Better Homes. Newtown, CT, The Taunton Press, 2022. -
FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
When it comes to running a studio, one area that often gets overlooked is power. But clean, reliable power is essential for avoiding ground loops, electrical noise, and keeping your gear safe from surges or voltage fluctuations. In this article, weâre going to break down the various power protection options available for studios and help you understand how to set up a system that keeps your equipment and your sound clean. This topic came up in a recent conversation with a client of mine who was wondering about star grounding, transformers, power conditioners, UPS units, and balanced power systems. Before we break down all your options I want to first mention the importance of wiring your studio correctly to begin with before even considering power conditioners or UPS units.
Practical Tips for Studio Power SetupBefore choosing the right power equipment, following best practices for studio wiring is crucial for avoiding noise and ground loops. Here are some key tips:
Dedicated Circuits for Audio: Wire all audio equipment on its own 15 or 20-amp breaker, depending on power needs. While computers can introduce noise, itâs often best to keep them on the same circuit to avoid ground loops.Separate Circuit for Non-Audio: Lights and non-audio electrical outlets should be on a separate circuit to minimize interference.Panel Management: Try to place the audio circuits on the same leg of your panel if possible, though this can be tricky to balance with other loads.EMI Reduction: Keep electrical and audio lines at least 1 foot apart at all times to reduce the risk of electromagnetic interference (this includes ethernet lines used for audio transmission).
Understanding Your Power OptionsStar Grounding: Do You Need It?
Star grounding is a method where all the ground connections for your studio are routed to a single point, or "star." This helps avoid ground loops, which can cause hum and other interference in audio systems. While star grounding is a good practice for reducing noise, itâs not always practical in smaller home studiosâespecially if you are not wiring your studio from scratch with an electrician involved.
Best Practice Tip: If you're building a studio where you can easily run wiring through the walls and have a talented electrician who understands the concept of star grounding then it is a great solution. However, if you do not want to spend the extra money for star grounding or don't have the ability to rewire your entire studio than star grounding is not a good option.
There are several ways to protect your studioâs power, each with its own pros and cons. Letâs walk through the most common options.
Transformers: Voltage Regulation and Power ConditioningThe SolaHD 23-23-210-8 provides voltage regulation, surge protection, and power conditioning, which helps protect your equipment from unstable power and electrical noise like electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio-frequency interference (RFI). While it improves overall power quality and can reduce noise, it doesnât specifically address ground loops unless youâre using an isolation transformer designed for that purpose. This system is great if you are wiring your studio from the ground up because it will protect multiple outlets in different rooms without the need to buy multiple individual power conditioners.
Recommendation: The SolaHD is great if you want to regulate voltage and protect against surges and noise, but if your primary concern is ground loops, you might need to look into grounding solutions or use an isolation transformer.
Power Conditioners: Clean Power for Audio GearPower conditioners, such as the Furman M-8x2, are a more familiar solution for many studio owners. These units filter the power coming into your gear, smoothing out surges and spikes while also providing noise filtering. While not nearly as robust as the other models on my list, the Furman M-8x2 ensures that your gear receives consistent voltage and power surge protection, which can help protect your home studio gear and provide some cleaning up of the power at the same time.
Recommendation: If you notice your power fluctuating or you live in an area prone to brownouts or surges, a voltage regulator/power conditioner combo is a great solution. Keep in mind, though, that these protect only whatâs plugged into them directly, not the entire room.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Protecting Against OutagesThe Furman F1500 UPS is a great example of a unit that combines power conditioning with a UPS. A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) ensures that your sensitive gearâlike computers, DAWs, and audio interfacesâstay powered during short-term outages, giving you time to save work and shut down safely. This unit also provides surge protection and power conditioning.
Recommendation: This unit might be one of the best options for home studios where you notice the power going out frequently. For example, my studio has many outages per year. This unit would be a great addition so that I don't lose work or suffer any damages to my gear due to surges when the power comes back on.
Balanced Power Conditioners: The Top Of The Line SolutionBalanced power systems, like the EquiTech Model 1.5R and the Furman P-2400 AR, offer a high end solution for reducing noise and interference. Balanced power delivers equal voltage on both the hot and neutral wires, which dramatically reduces electrical noise and hum. The EquiTech Model unit can power up to 12 outlets, while the Furman offers 14. These are both high end and expensive units. The EquiTech Model 1.5R costs $2,990 while the Furman P-2400 AR costs $993.43.
Recommendation: If you want a top of the line solution that gives you peace of mind, these two options are your best bet. Some people swear by balanced power, but you are paying for higher quality gear. These units are geared toward high-end, professional environments where electrical interference and power purity are crucial, such as high-end recording studios, broadcast facilities, or other mission-critical applications requiring the best possible power conditioning.
Answering My Client's Questions: What Should You Choose?He was wondering how these various options compare. Hereâs what I told him:
For clean, isolated power, a transformer is the way to go, though itâs usually a bigger investment and best for commercial setups.For regulating voltage and conditioning power, the Furman P-2400 AR is excellent. It ensures stable power and clean filtering for critical gear.For backup power during outages, the Furman F1500 UPS is a great option to keep your most important gear (like your DAW or computer) safe.For comprehensive, clean power that is top of the line, a balanced power system like the EquiTech 1.5R or the Furman P-2400 AR offers the best long-term solutions for high end studios. They will power multiple outlets and significantly reduce noise and interference across your studio. Final Thoughts: Whatâs Best for Your Studio?Every studio has different needs, but in general, asking your electrician about installing a star grounded set up if you are building a new studio is the best option. If you can't do a star grounded system still follow my basic electrical install tips. Then use the SolaHD 23-23-210-8 for extra conditioning and surge protection on your audio circuit. This will be a more cost effective way to ensure protection if you have multiple rooms or multiple outlets that you want to protect. If you do all those things you probably won't need an expensive power conditioner for your studio. I like the term don't fix a problem you don't have. In this case power conditioners may not be needed and are quite costly.
If you don't have the luxury of wiring your studio then a power conditioner is a great option. Honestly, the Furman 8x2 is a tried and true piece of gear that will work for all home studios. The UPS is great as well, but you don't have to buy a UPS built into your power conditioner, but it is a nice streamlined approach. If you opt for the higher end balanced conditioners they are a great option if you have the budget, but might not be necessary for your average home studio.
If you're working on designing a studio and want professional help reach out! Iâm always happy to help.
Links to Products:Furman M-8x2 (affiliate link)Furman P-2400 AR (affiliate link)Furman F1500 UPSEquiTech 1.5R Balanced PowerSolaHD Transformer -
FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
IntroductionIn todayâs home recording studio world, high-quality audio transmission over Cat5/Cat6 has become a game changer. From real-time audio processing to networked systems that allow for future scalability, audio over IP (AoIP) solutions offer a flexible, affordable way to streamline your workflow. In this guide, weâll explore the best systems for home studios, what hardware and software youâll need, and a price breakdown for each option.
***I am using affiliate links below***
1. Dante by AudinateWhy Itâs Great for Home Studios:
Scalability: Easily expand your setup as your studio grows.Compatibility: Works with popular audio brands like Focusrite, PreSonus, and Yamaha.Low Latency: Perfect for real-time recording and monitoring.Software Flexibility: Dante Virtual Soundcard runs on your computer without extra hardware.Hardware Needed:
Dante-Enabled Audio Interfaces: Focusrite RedNet X2P ($1,300) or Yamaha Tio1608 ($1,550).Dante Switch: Netgear ProSAFE GS724T ($300).Optional Dante PCIe Card: Audinate Dante PCIe-R ($750).Software Needed:
Dante Virtual Soundcard: ($50).Dante Controller: Free software for managing your Dante network.Estimated Price: $1,680 - $3,000 for a basic setup.
Best For: Small to large home studios that require real-time recording and monitoring with the ability to expand over time.
2. AVB (Audio Video Bridging)Why Itâs Great for Home Studios:
Cost-Effective: Affordable and reliable for home studio budgets.Synchronization: Ensures perfect sync between audio and video.Simple Setup: Works with AVB-compliant switches for easy network creation.Hardware Needed:
AVB Interfaces: MOTU 828es ($995) PreSonus StudioLive 32R ($1,700).AVB-Compliant Switch: Extreme Networks X440-G2 (~$750).Software Needed:
PreSonus UC Surface (free) for StudioLive or MOTU AVB Control (free).Estimated Price: $1,745 - $2,450 for a basic setup.
Best For: Small to medium-sized home studio setups that are budget-conscious but need reliable audio performance.
3. SoundGrid by WavesWhy Itâs Great for Home Studios:
Real-Time Processing: Great for integrating Waves plugins into live recording and mixing.High Channel Count: Supports multiple devices and high channel counts for large setups.Waves Ecosystem: Seamless integration with Waves plugins.Hardware Needed:
SoundGrid Audio Interface: DiGiGrid MGB ($3,000) or any Soundgrid Compatible Interface ($1,050+)Optional: Waves SoundGrid Proton Server ($849) Switch: Netgear ProSAFE GS716T ($230).Software Needed:
SoundGrid Studio: Free with SoundGrid hardware.Optional Plugins: Waves Plugin Bundles (~$200 - $600 depending on the bundle).Estimated Price: $1,280 - $4,079+ for a basic setup, depending on the hardware and plugins used.
Best For: Home studios that already use Waves plugins and need real-time processing for recording and mixing.
For home studio setups using Waves SoundGrid, a DiGiGrid MGB or another SoundGrid-compatible interface is essential to convert your audio into the network. However, the Waves Proton Server is optional. While not required for the system to function, it provides the power needed for real-time Waves plugin processing, making it a great addition for those working in live sound or heavy plugin environments.
4. Q-SYS by QSC (AES67 Support)Why Itâs Great for Home Studios:
All-in-One Solution: Integrates audio, video, and control into one system.Highly Customizable: Perfect for flexible home studio setups that may expand into video or streaming.AES67 Support: Provides compatibility with other AoIP systems like Dante.Hardware Needed:
Q-SYS Core 110f (~$2,300): Integrates audio, video, and control in one system.DB25 to Phoenix Connector Cable ($100-200) - Allows you to patch from your audio interface into the Core 110f and convert that audio to ethernet.Software Needed:
Q-SYS Designer Software: Free with the Q-SYS system.Estimated Price: $3,000 - $4,000 for a basic setup.
Best For: Advanced home studios or content creators who want to integrate audio, video, and control into a single networked solution.
ConclusionWhen deciding which system to use in your home recording studio, it's important to consider both your current needs and future scalability.
Best All-Around Choice: Dante is the most flexible and future-proof option, perfect for growing studios.Best Budget Option: AVB offers a reliable, cost-effective solution for small to mid-sized studios.Best for Real-Time Processing: SoundGrid is ideal if you need real-time plugin processing with high channel counts.Best for Advanced Needs: Q-SYS is a powerful, all-in-one system for studios incorporating both audio and video production.No matter your choice, investing in audio over Cat5/Cat6 systems will ensure that your home recording studio is equipped for todayâs demands while staying flexible for future expansions.
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