Creating a Studio with Excellent Soundproofing & Acoustics is vital for high-quality recordings and professional work. Soundproofing involves various methods and materials applied to achieve the best possible sound isolation.
In this article, we will analyze the fundamental principles & materials of soundproofing & vibration isolation for a studio.
Fundamental Principles of Studio Soundproofing
1. Isolation:
- High-Mass Materials (Mass): Classic examples include dense plasterboards with high specific weight or cement-bonded fiberboards. More effective systems for high soundproofing, especially at low frequencies, involve combining materials like heavy-mass soundproofing membranes or using ready-made plasterboard panel systems with industrially bonded membranes.
- Creating Gaps (Decoupling): Introducing gaps between soundproof constructions (e.g., building double soundproof drywall partitions) or creating gaps between existing structural elements and the soundproof constructions prevents the direct transmission of airborne noise.
2. Absorption:
- Porous Materials: Used to absorb sound waves and reduce reflections.
- Installing sound-absorbing panels or panel systems (combination of sound-absorbing panels with soundproof membranes) within drywall systems.
- Foam or PET panels with an absorption coefficient of aw 0.6–1.0, installed on walls and ceilings in various configurations (suspended, directly adhered to walls and ceilings, baffle arrangements, etc.).
- Special sound-absorbing fabric systems with an absorption coefficient of aw 0.7–1.0.
- Diffusers: Designed to scatter sound in multiple directions, preventing sound wave concentration in one spot.
3. Vibration Isolation:
- Structural Element Isolation: Use of elastic vibration isolation materials to prevent vibration transmission through walls, floors, and ceilings.
Soundproofing & Vibration Isolation Products
Stop Sound provides certified, high-quality soundproofing materials for applications in walls, floors, and ceilings.
Walls & Ceilings:
Soundproofing Materials:
- Thermomax BIT: A thermal and sound-insulating panel consisting of polyester fiber panels combined with an elastomeric membrane, 50 mm thick, suitable for various applications.
- Phonoprill: Comprises a plasterboard sheet industrially bonded with a soundproofing–vibration isolation layer made of recycled synthetic rubber for maximum soundproofing.
- Microgips Plus: The combination of a high-density panel with a vibration-isolating membrane offers excellent soundproofing, making it ideal for direct wall cladding with minimal construction thickness.
- Mantobit: A soundproof panel that combines noise and moisture protection.
- Phonosoft: A unique panel with excellent thermal-acoustic performance, applied directly to walls and ceilings with paste adhesive. Suitable for hotel rooms, offices, homes, etc.
- Suprema 3.5 AD: A special self-adhesive high-quality soundproofing membrane whose high mass makes it the ideal solution for drywall constructions, increasing soundproofing capability even at lower frequencies (bass) where conventional plasterboard-only constructions fall short.
Vibration Isolation Products:
7. Anti-vibration ceiling hangers with VISCOREN or hangers combining springs & VISCOREN for enhanced performance.
8. Side anti-vibration supports for joining soundproof walls or connecting soundproof walls with existing structures.
9. Perimeter Isolation POLYPRILL STRIP, a high-performance soundproofing and vibration isolation product, acts as a perimeter cut-off for partitions, claddings, and ceilings, preventing vibration transmission to structural elements.
Floors:
Under-Screed Soundproofing Membranes:
- Microbit 4+2: Elastic soundproofing membrane ideal for high-performance soundproofing under concrete.
- SuperCanalee 8mm: Lightweight elastic polyethylene foam layer, easy to install and suitable for underfloor heating.
- Minigran 5mm & 8mm: Anti-vibration underlayment made from recycled natural materials, suitable for heavy-duty floors while offering high soundproofing levels.
Direct Under-Floor Soundproofing Membranes:
- GreenPlatt: Ideal for soundproofing existing floors with excellent soundproofing properties.
- Polywood Plus: Provides vapor protection and soundproofing at a low cost.
- Polywood: An economical and effective solution for basic floor soundproofing applications.
Raised Floors:
The SUBFLOOR Raised Floor category offers comprehensive soundproofing and vibration isolation solutions for demanding spaces like offices, studios, data centers, etc.
Raised floor systems ensure easy access to mechanical installations, durability, maximum soundproofing, and versatility. They are designed to combine functionality with enhanced acoustic performance, fully meeting modern construction needs.
Floor Blocks:
Floor block systems are constructed with special anti-vibration pads (VISCOREN), industrially cut to standard dimensions, suitable for soundproof studio floors, providing high vibration isolation performance at very low frequencies.
Doors:
Stop Sound offers certified soundproof doors critical in a studio to ensure acoustic performance. Certified soundproof doors prevent sound leakage and block external noise, ensuring isolation during recordings. Additionally, they help create a controlled acoustic environment, essential for professional work, while certification guarantees compliance with high-quality standards.
Air Conditioning:
Soundproofing air conditioning systems is essential to reduce noise caused by equipment operation and airflow. Using special sound traps & soundproof membranes in ducts and AC units minimizes noise and prevents sound transmission to adjacent spaces. Proper installation of anti-vibration supports and insulation around ducts also maintains the quality of the acoustic environment.
Conclusion:
Soundproofing a professional studio requires a combination of scientific knowledge and practical experience. By applying the right materials and techniques, a space with minimal sound leakage and optimal recording conditions can be achieved.
Stop Sound Constructions specializes in soundproofing & vibration isolation, offering tailored solutions and the expertise required for the success of any studio.
