How Do I Build a Recording Studio in My House?

A recording studio will give you a multitude of choices.

Building a recording studio in your house is an excellent way to take charge of your musical pursuits, while avoiding the expense and time limitations typically involved with renting studio time from someone else. An in home studio can be a dominant feature of your abode, or tucked into an inconspicuous corner. After a solid initial consideration of your needs, available space and budget, your in-home studio will provide you with a powerful and accessible tool to take your passion in music to a higher level.

Instructions

1. 

   Will your studio accomodate a band or an individual vocalist?

   Write down the space needs that your studio will require. In addition to your electronic equipment, will you also accommodate a band or an individual vocalist? Depending on the available space and your needs, the studio could be the size of a closet or two rooms combined.

2. 

   Take your time and think this choice through.

   Choose the optimal room that fulfills your space needs. You want an area that stays cool, as your studio can grow uncomfortably warm from the combination of electronics and body heat. Pick a quieter area of your house, away from foot traffic.

3. 

   Your studio should be a comfortable place.

   Lay out where you will place your equipment, recording booth and computer. Consider access to outlets for your microphone, speakers, amplifier, computer and other equipment or instruments. Align your components so you have a clear line of sight to the microphone without turning away from your controls.

4. 

   You can build a professional studio without breaking the bank.

   Budget for the equipment your plan requires. Be sure to include costs for furniture, surge protectors, specialized sound components and soundproofing material.

5. 

   Don't let outside sounds ruin your recording sessions.

   Soundproof your entire music studio area by applying a high quality foam to every possible surface. This will dampen outside noises and improve your studio acoustics by reducing echo. According to Humbucker Music, good soundproofing requires three things: mass, decoupling and attention to detail.

Tips & Warnings

• Basement rooms are a great option for recording studios. Your second floor may be easier to isolate, but can also heat up more quickly.

• You may need to build a partition or knock out existing walls depending on your space requirements. Seek a professional contractor if you are not comfortable doing this on your own.

• Take steps to avoid internal and external noise pollution when recording in your home. Potential problems could include a car starting, toilet flushing or phone ringing.

• Home studios can grow warm rather quickly, and your home's air conditioning can be a source of noise pollution. Schedule recording sessions efficiently to keep your sessions cool and enjoyable.

• Build rapport with your neighbors to avoid irritability over frequent visitors to your home, or louder than usual recording sessions.

References

• Humbucker Music: Building a Home Studio

Resources

• Ultimate Songwriting: How to Build Your Own Recording Studio
• Sound Proof Foam: Soundproofing and Acoustic Materials