Sound control for a strictly a cappella studio

[breadbox]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of planning a studio for my a cappella group. What would you recommend in terms of sound control. Should it be strictly absorbption, or should there be a bit of diffusion as well. If some diffusion (is that the right word?), then where should those panels be placed? Again, this is a studio which only my a cappella group will be using.

Thanks.

[ChristopherDawn]

Check out this place:

http://www.johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/index.php

There's also a forum on here about studio construction. Check that out.

[Massive Master]

Quick & cheap -

Err on the side of absorption - You can always add a bit of verb. Auralex is your best friend - I used to use a small vocal room (could hold 6 or 7 pretty well) that was completely covered with at least 2" Auralex mixed with 4" between 4 & 6 ft high and LENRD bass traps in 2 corners, and Wedges on the ceiling. Dead as dead. Couldn't use it enough for vocals, acoustic guitars, percussion, voiceover work...

Heavy foam furniture wouldn't hurt either... Bean bag chairs are nice AND comfy between takes...

John Scrip - www.massivemastering.com

[Son of Mixerman]

I agree that unless the room is a great acoustical space then removing the room from the equation is usually better. I know that dead is accomplished many different ways, and cost is an unforntunate limitation for alot of folks. Quick and semi cheap is Foam, Not as quick and more costly are Ethan's hybrid minitraps. Ive used blankets, foam, sleeping bags, pillows over the years. I like anything that is adaptable.


SoMm

[breadbox]

This is a major help, guys. Thanks.

So, basically most every structural surface should absorb sound . . . I can do that. Even the floor???

And, is it better to cram 8" of R-25 insulation between 2 x 4 studs, or get the 3 1/2" and let it be as Owens-Corning intended? The 8" unsurfaced is cheaper than the paper-backed 3 1/2" stuff; otherwise I wouldn't ask.

[Massive Master]

Now your talking about isolation - If it's important to you, there are several useable techniques for wall-building that are probably covered in the "Studio Building and Display" area...

JS -

Oh, sorry - Yes, even the floor. Ugly 2" thick green shag works well, but something more attractive will help also.