Afleveringen
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This week on the podcast, I had an awesome conversation with Drewsky, one of my clients who turned his garage into a professional recording studio. If youâve ever thought about building your own soundproof space, this episode is packed with insights on what it takes to make it happen.Drewsky walks us through his journeyâfrom choosing the garage as the best location, to tackling the challenges of soundproofing, ventilation, and budgeting. He also shares how having a dedicated creative space has transformed his workflow and music production.
Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:
đľ The garage was a great choice â It provided enough space and separation for soundproofing.
đ Soundproofing made a huge difference â Recording is now free from unwanted noise.
đ Acoustic treatment is just as important â The studioâs dimensions and treatment dramatically impact sound quality.
đ¨ Ventilation matters â A well-designed system keeps the space comfortable without compromising soundproofing.
đ° Budgeting is crucial â Building a studio requires planning, but the investment pays off.
đś A dedicated studio fuels creativity â Having a private space allows for deeper focus and better recordings.
We also dive into the technical side of thingsâhow studio dimensions affect usability, why team dynamics are key to a smooth build, and the long-term value of investing in professional soundproofing.
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Want to achieve pro-level sound control in your studio? Last week, I had the privilege of working with Alex McVey of McVey Acoustics in Nashville to install a massive 8x8â acoustic cloudâa game-changer for my space!
In this episode, Iâll walk you through:
â The step-by-step process of hanging an acoustic cloud
â Pro techniques I learned from Alex
â How upgrading to a larger cloud transformed my roomâs acousticsWhether youâre building a new studio or upgrading your setup, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you get the best sound possible.
đ§ Watch, listen, and optimize your studio today!
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://whttps://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
We all love a good deal. If you can put some elbow grease into a project and fix it yourself, awesome! You just saved a bunch of money... or did you?Let me tell you a story.
Greg loves mowing his lawn. He invested $3,000 into a state-of-the-art mower. Every weekend, he mows his lawn, maintains his mower, and keeps everything looking pristine. Need an oil change? No problemâhe finds a YouTube video. Carburetor issues? Another video and a few replacement parts later, heâs back on track. Gregâs yard is immaculate, and he takes pride in mowing those perfect pro-soccer-field lines.
Greg is the king of DIY lawn care!
One day, I asked him, âGreg, you love mowing your lawn so muchâwhy not mow your neighborâs lawn too?â
He laughed. âOf course not, Wilson! I donât have the time. Plus, the most theyâd pay me is $60. I make way more than that at my job.â
I told Greg, âIf you arenât willing to mow your neighborâs lawn for $60, thereâs no reason you should mow your own. Your time is simply too valuable.â
Mowing the lawn might be a classic American pastime, but it can also be a huge waste of time. And when it comes to researching and building a soundproof studio, the same logic applies.
What Is Your Time Worth?Chances are you have a job. And chances are it pays you well. Letâs say you earn $75,000 a year. The average person works about 2,000 hours annually. That means your time is worth roughly $37.50 per hour.
So, if youâre doing anything you could pay someone less than $37.50 per hour to do, youâre actually losing money. Youâre working below your pay grade and sacrificing your time and income.
How Many Hours Have You Spent Researching Soundproofing?If youâre like most people I talk to, youâve watched all my YouTube videos, read Rod Gervaisâs book, and still feel uncertain about how to build your soundproof studio.
Letâs do the math. Watching my content alone takes around 81 hours. Add another 20 hours from other sources. Thatâs over 100 hours of research.
At $37.50 per hour, thatâs $3,750 of your time. And you probably still havenât built your studio.
Do You Know How Long It Takes to Build?Letâs say you feel confident after all that research. You decide to skip hiring a professional and jump straight into building. You do most of the work yourself because youâre a true DIY warrior.
Youâve never built a studio before, and you underestimate the timeline by about six months. Instead of six months, it takes a year. You work full-time, so you give up every weekend for that year. You pull some late nights too, because the project is dragging.
Thatâs 8 hours every Saturday and Sunday for 50 weeks. 800 hours. Thatâs $30,000 of your time.
But hey, you saved $30,000 in labor, right? Who cares if you missed weddings, birthday parties, and time with your kids? Who cares if you lost your weekends and your chance to relax?
What If Itâs Not Soundproof?After all that, you close the door to your finished studio... and you hear your kids running around upstairs. The ductwork you tied into is noisy, and the sound of the vacuum cleaner travels right into your room. The acoustics are off; your homemade panels didnât quite do the trick.
Letâs recap:
Research: $3,750
Sweat Equity: $30,000
Materials: $25,000
And it still didnât work. You wasted $58,750 and a year of your life.
The Better PathSure, this is an extreme example, but it happens more often than youâd think. Can you build a studio perfectly on your first try? Maybe. But is your time really that cheap?
Would you build your own house? Remodel your own kitchen? Fix your car instead of taking it to a mechanic? Fly your own plane instead of buying a ticket?
You pay experts for expert results. You pay them to save time, money, and frustration. You pay them to get it right the first time.
So, do you still want to DIY your home studio? If so, more power to you. But if you donât want to metaphorically mow your neighborâs lawn, thereâs a better way.
I call it DIT: Do It Together.
If you value your time and want to work with someone who can guide you through the process, letâs talk. Book a 30-minute Soundproof Clarity Call with me to see how I can help you build your dream home studioâthe right way.
Apply here: Soundproof Clarity Call Application
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In this video I am sharing my insights into the true cost of building a home recording studio in 2025. I am using my budget calculator (which you can download here: Budget Calculator - https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/calculator) as well as my insight into my own client projects to teach you how much soundproofing costs in 2025.
I will go over typical studio sizes for a 300 square foot studio and a multi-room (live room/control room) studio. I will also talk about the cost of building in an existing studio vs. in your backyard.
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/consulting
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FREE Acoustic Treatment Guide: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/acoustic
Are you struggling to make your home recording studio sound better? Do you want a tight, accurate low end? Are you frustrated by all the conflicting advice on the internet?If you answered yes to these questions, youâre in the right place. In this article, Iâll simplify and demystify the process of acoustically treating your home studio so you can get professional results without the confusion. Letâs dive in!
1. Itâs All About That BassThe hardest thing to get right in a home recording studio is an accurate low end. However, you donât have to lose sleep over itâjust follow these steps:
⢠Install floor-to-ceiling bass traps in all four corners of your room.
⢠Add soffit bass traps along the perimeter where your walls meet the ceiling.The deeper the air gap behind your bass traps, the lower the frequencies they will absorb. However, thereâs a limit to this, which is why broadband absorption is key.
Most people overlook the top corners of their rooms, which is a major reason their bass response remains uneven. Adding bass traps in the upper corners significantly improves control over low frequencies.
As for panel thickness, 4-inch insulation is the sweet spot. Anything thicker provides diminishing returns, so I prioritize maximizing air gaps instead of increasing panel thickness beyond 4 inches.
2. Cover the Back WallMany people install diffusion on their back wall, but without adequate bass trapping, this is a mistake. Instead of spending money on expensive diffusers, cover the back wall with more acoustic panels.
⢠Use 4-inch-thick insulation (I recommend Knauf ECOSE Insulation from GIK Acoustics).
⢠Leave at least a 1-inch air gap behind the panels.
⢠If possible, increase the air gap to 2-6 inches for even better absorption, though this depends on how much space youâre willing to sacrifice.
3. Treat the CeilingAcoustic clouds are your best friend. These are simply panels that hang from your ceiling.
⢠The lower the panel hangs, the better the low-end absorption due to the increased air gap.
⢠Cover as much of the ceiling as possible while maintaining an acceptable ceiling height.This setup dramatically improves low-frequency response and overall clarity in your room.
4. Treat the Left and Right WallsYour left and right walls are crucial for creating a reflection-free zone at your listening position.
⢠Use 4-inch-thick insulation with at least a 1-inch air gap.
⢠Cover the entire area to the left and right of your listening position.
⢠Add additional panels to the back half of your room to reduce flutter echo and further absorb low frequencies.This setup minimizes unwanted reflections, allowing you to hear your mixes more accurately.
5. What About the Front Wall?
⢠Position your speakers right up against the front wall to reduce speaker boundary interference response (SBIR).
⢠Avoid adding absorption to the front wall initially.Once youâve treated your room as described above, test the low-end response using Room EQ Wizard (REW) or a similar tool. If youâre happy with the results, leave the front wall untreated to preserve some natural liveliness in the room.
If the room feels too dead, you can introduce diffusion to add brightness and balance.
6. Why I Donât Recommend Diaphragmatic Absorbers or Helmholtz ResonatorsSome people believe that pressure-based traps like diaphragmatic absorbers and Helmholtz resonators are the best way to absorb low frequencies. While they can target specific frequencies down to 20Hz, they are highly inefficient, requiring a large amount of space and money to be effective.
Why I Avoid These Methods:
⢠High cost: You need a lot of these traps to make a significant impact.
⢠Space limitations: They take up too much room to be practical for most home studios.
⢠Difficult to build correctly: Small mistakes in construction can worsen your roomâs acoustics instead of improving them.For these reasons, I stick to broadband absorption, which is more efficient and cost-effective.
The only time I would consider using pressure-based traps is after my room is fully treated with broadband bass traps and I need to fix a specific low-frequency issue. For example, if my room had a 68Hz peak, I could install four 68Hz diaphragmatic absorbers at key points to target that specific frequency.
ConclusionTo get an accurate and well-balanced studio:
â Install bass traps in all four corners and along the top perimeter of the ceiling.
â Cover the back wall with broadband absorption instead of diffusion.
â Hang acoustic clouds from the ceiling.
â Treat the left and right walls to create a reflection-free zone.
â Leave the front wall untreated at first.Once youâve done all this, test your room and tweak as needed. If the room feels too dead, add diffusion gradually to bring some liveliness back.
Follow these steps, and I guarantee youâll achieve a great-sounding studioâwithout losing sleep over bad advice from the internet.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
A while back, during a Soundproof Clarity call, a client shared a story that really hit home for me. He had tried fixing his carâs brakes on his own, figuring heâd save some money and learn something in the process. But instead, he made a mistakeâone that cost him more in repairs than if he had just gone to a mechanic in the first place. It was a frustrating and expensive lesson, but one I think a lot of us can relate to. And honestly, it reminded me a lot of what I see happen with studio soundproofing all the time.
Learning from MistakesIâve been there myself. When I built my first home recording studio, I tried to do everything on my own. I mean, how hard could it be? I read a ton, watched all the videos, and thought I had it figured out. But looking back now, I see just how many costly mistakes I madeâmistakes that could have been avoided if I had consulted with an expert from the start.
I remember one specific example: the studio doors. I thought, "I'll just build these myself, it can't be that complicated." Well, turns out, it was. I ended up with doors that didn't seal properly, let in way too much noise, and required multiple fixes that wasted time and money. In the end, I could have just gone with a pre-made option and saved myself a whole lot of headache. But hey, you live and you learn.
Know Your LimitsThereâs this temptation, especially if youâre someone who enjoys DIY projects, to think, "I can do this myself and save money." And sure, sometimes that works out. But more often than not, you end up spending way more time than you planned, dealing with unexpected issues, and still needing to call in a professional to fix what went wrong.
At the end of the day, itâs about knowing your strengths. If you're a musician, your time is better spent making music than trying to learn construction, soundproofing, electrical work, and HVAC installation all at once. Trust me, Iâve seen too many people go down that rabbit hole, only to come out the other side frustrated, exhausted, and with a studio that still doesnât sound right.
Do It TogetherInstead of thinking DIY (Do It Yourself), think DITâDo It Together. Hire the right people, consult with experts, and collaborate where it makes sense. That doesnât mean you have to give up control or stop being involvedâit just means youâre setting yourself up for success instead of struggle.
When I work with clients, my goal is to help them avoid the mistakes I made. I want them to walk into their finished studio and feel excited, not regretful. Because at the end of the day, a great studio isnât just about saving moneyâitâs about creating a space that inspires you, functions flawlessly, and allows you to do what you do best: make amazing music.
So, next time youâre thinking about taking on a massive DIY project, ask yourself: is this something I should really be doing alone? Or is it time to bring in some help and do it right the first time?
If you want to DIT then reach out for a Soundproof Clarity Call.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
In a world where noise pollution is an ever-growing concern, finding effective soundproofing solutions has become essential for both residential and commercial spaces. Recently, I had the pleasure of listening to Alan, the founder of Hush Frame Rafts, share his journey and the innovative technology behind his soundproofing products.
The Inspiration Behind Hush Frame Rafts
Alan's journey into the soundproofing industry began with a common problem: noise. He noted that while construction codes provide guidelines for thermal insulation and vapor barriers, they often fall short when it comes to controlling noise. This gap in knowledge led him to explore how to effectively manage sound in building designs.
His initial foray into soundproofing started over a decade ago while collaborating with architects on small housing units. The goal was to eliminate double stud walls, which not only wasted valuable floor space but also added unnecessary material costs. Through trial and error, Alan discovered that noise is essentially vibration, and by controlling this vibration, he could significantly reduce sound transmission between units.
The Unique Technology of Hush Frame Rafts
What sets Hush Frame Rafts apart from traditional soundproofing solutions is their innovative use of silicone. Unlike other products on the market that utilize hard polymers, Hush Frame's connectors feature a soft silicone core with a durometer rating of just 23. This unique material effectively absorbs and dissipates vibration energy, outperforming competitors by a significant margin.
Alan's approach is not just about creating a product; it's about understanding how materials interact within the construction process. His extensive experience as a builder and developer has equipped him with the insights necessary to design effective soundproofing solutions that are both practical and affordable.
A Creative Process Rooted in Experience
Alan emphasizes that his journey into soundproofing was not driven by a formal engineering background but rather by a creative process honed over 50 years in the construction industry. This hands-on experience has allowed him to develop a deep understanding of how materials work together, leading to innovative solutions that challenge conventional methods.
Conclusion
The conversation with Alan was a fascinating glimpse into the world of soundproofing innovation. Hush Frame Rafts exemplifies how creative thinking and practical experience can lead to groundbreaking solutions in an industry that often overlooks the importance of effective noise control. As we continue to navigate the challenges of urban living, products like Hush Frame Rafts offer hope for quieter, more peaceful environments.
For more insights and to learn about Hush Frame Rafts, check out the full interview.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
When we want to learn something where do we go? Google right (or ChatGPT these days)? What if I told you that on the first page of google most of what was there was wrong when it comes to soundproofing.In this lesson I want to teach you to be weary of where you get your information about building a soundproof home recording studio. I will show you some things to look out for and some great resources I recommend.
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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
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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FREE Soundproofing Workshop: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/workshop
***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.
Soundproof Clarity Call Application
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.
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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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