Theaters and Studios

Best Option: Decouple and Dampen the Ceilings and Walls

Decoupling is required for home theater and studio soundproofing to isolate the low frequencies generated. By also damping these decoupled surfaces, the common resonance issues found between 80 and 200 hertz are resolved, further adding to the low frequency isolation of the structure (the most important frequency range for theaters and studios).

Because of the wide range of frequencies and significant level of noise, we recommend 3 layers of drywall on resilient clips or HushFrame Rafts. The third layer will improve low frequency isolation dramatically. If including Green Glue Compound, then one layer between drywall layers 1 and 2 or layers 2 and 3 would be sufficient.

  1. Pliteq GenieClip RST Front
    GenieClip® RST
    $4.50
  2. HushFrame Raft Connector Front
    HushFrame Raft
    $4.95
  3. Pliteq GenieClip LB3 Product Image
    GenieClip® LB3
    $8.00

Second Option: Decouple the Ceilings and Walls

If the budget does not allow for both decoupling and damping, then we strongly recommend decoupling as the main method of isolation. The low frequency isolation from resilient clips or HushFrame Rafts is crucial in isolating these types of rooms. A third layer of drywall is still recommended whenever possible - the performance gains are worth the extra cost.

  1. Pliteq GenieClip RST Front
    GenieClip® RST
    $4.50
  2. HushFrame Raft Connector Front
    HushFrame Raft
    $4.95
  3. Pliteq GenieClip LB3 Product Image
    GenieClip® LB3
    $8.00

Third Option: Decouple the Ceiling and Dampen the Walls

Assuming the home theater or recording studio is in a basement, or lower level, and the main concern is isolating the space from the floor above, then you can consider this option. We would still recommend decoupling all surfaces, but at a bare minimum the ceiling should be decoupled and walls dampened. Dampen all walls, whether exterior or interior, for optimal studio sound insulation. Decouple the top plate framing using the GenieClip® LB if the walls have not yet been built.

  1. Pliteq GenieClip RST Front
    GenieClip® RST
    $4.50
  2. HushFrame Raft Connector Front
    HushFrame Raft
    $4.95
  3. Pliteq GenieClip LB Utility L Bracket Sway Brace
    GenieClip® LB
    $8.00

Crucial: Control Flanking Paths

The performance of isolation products are limited if flanking paths are not isolated. Lighting, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical outlets are the most common flanking paths. The products below will address these issues with minimal cost.

  1. IsoStore QuietBox For Soundproof Recessed Lights and Speakers
    QuietBox
    $72.00
  2. Pipe and Duct Wrap Sheets Butyl Rubber
    Pipe and Duct Wrap
    $12.00
  3. STC Acoustic Sleeper Bottom
    Acoustic Sleeper

Install A Heavy Sound Door

Our IsoDoor line is sound tested to show excellent performance in all frequencies. Generally our IsoDoor SD or IsoDoor HD with LF core are used in theaters and studios. Communicating doors (two doors back to back) are required to reach a true STC 60+ and OITC 50+. A crucial performance threshold in achieving the highest level of recording studio soundproofing.

  1. IsoDoor SD Drawing Specs
    IsoDoor SD
    $2,600.00
  2. IsoDoor HD Drawing Specs
    IsoDoor HD
    $3,100.00
  3. IsoDoor V Drawing Specs
    IsoDoor V
    $2,200.00
  4. IsoDoor Scratch and Dent
    IsoDoor Scratch and Dent
    $0.00

Dealing With Room Acoustics

Most any room can be isolated with the products above, however, the acoustics within the room are another issue. The reverberation and standing waves can be dealt with using basic acoustic panels placed strategically throughout the room. Acoustic panels or acoustic foam are several times more efficient at resolving acoustics problems compared to other old school DIY acoustics methods for home theater. We do not currently offer any acoustic related products. Search ‘acoustic panels’ or 'acoustic foam' online for several possible sources.

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