Theaters and Studios
Best Option: Decouple and Dampen the Ceilings and Walls
Decoupling is essential for home theaters and studios to isolate low-frequency sounds. Adding damping to these decoupled surfaces eliminates resonance issues between 80 and 200 Hz, greatly improving low-frequency isolation—the most critical range for these spaces.
Because theaters and studios produce a wide range of powerful sound frequencies, we recommend using three layers of drywall on resilient clips or HushFrame Rafts. The third layer greatly improves low-frequency isolation. If using Green Glue Compound, one layer between either the first and second or second and third drywall sheets is sufficient.
Second Option: Decouple the Ceilings and Walls
If the budget doesn’t allow for both decoupling and damping, prioritize decoupling for the best isolation. The low-frequency performance from resilient clips or HushFrame Rafts is essential for these rooms. Whenever possible, add a third layer of drywall—the performance gains are well worth the cost.
Third Option: Decouple the Ceiling and Dampen the Walls
If your home theater or studio is in a basement or lower level and the main concern is isolating sound from the floor above, this setup is ideal. We still recommend decoupling all surfaces, but at minimum, decouple the ceiling and dampen the walls. For optimal sound insulation, dampen both exterior and interior walls. If the walls aren’t yet built, decouple the top plate framing using the GenieClip® LB.
Crucial: Control Flanking Paths
Isolation performance is greatly reduced if flanking paths aren’t treated. Common flanking paths include lighting, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical outlets. The products below effectively address these issues at minimal cost.
Install A Heavy Sound Door
Our IsoDoor line delivers excellent sound isolation across all frequencies. The IsoDoor SD and IsoDoor HD with LF core are ideal for theaters and studios. For true STC 60+ and OITC 50+ performance, the highest standard in studio soundproofing, use communicating doors installed back to back.
Dealing With Room Acoustics
Almost any room can be soundproofed using the products above, but managing the room’s internal acoustics is a separate challenge. Reverberation and standing waves can be controlled with strategically placed acoustic panels. Acoustic panels or foam are far more effective than traditional DIY methods for improving home theater acoustics. We currently don’t offer acoustic products, but you can find many options online by searching for “acoustic panels” or “acoustic foam.”
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.
Continue Reading - 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.
Continue Reading - 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.
Continue Reading