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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Want To Learn More About Relevant Isolation Concepts?

  • Concept of Decoupling

    Article discussing the different ways to decouple walls and ceilings, and the higher level of performance you can achieve with decoupling. Where lower frequencies are more common (studios and theaters), decoupling is crucial to creating a high performing assembly.

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  • Choosing Your Sound Door

    Article discussing how to review doors from our company and our competitors. Reviewing lab results, door specifications, and sorting through what are likely false claims from some online suppliers.

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  • Explanation of Flanking

    Article discussing how not all sound passes through the most direct path (wall, ceiling, floor). This is especially important to consider in home theaters and recording studios, where a higher level of sound control is more crucial and the noise generated is more omnidirectional.

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