Where There’s Air with Wilson Harwood (Soundproof Your Studio)
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert)
Guest: Wilson Harwood
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In this episode of Love Music More, we welcome Wilson Harwood, a seasoned soundproofing designer and musician who's on a mission to help creative professionals build the ideal studio environment. For anyone looking to enhance their sound quality or create a home studio, Wilson shares invaluable insights into the world of acoustic design. We delve into the complexities of soundproofing versus sound treatment, the challenges of DIY construction, and the decisions that can make or break your studio's acoustics.
By unpacking the differences between treating a space for sound versus completely isolating it, Wilson opens up a new perspective on how to approach studio design. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to tackle the often daunting world of soundproofing, and find out why sometimes hiring a professional can save you both time and money in the long run.
Selected moments
- Difference between soundproofing and sound treatment 2:41 Wilson discusses the essential differences in objectives between soundproofing and sound treatment.
- Challenges of DIY soundproofing 6:36 Wilson shares insights about the complexities and potential pitfalls of attempting DIY soundproofing.
- The importance of hiring professionals 18:49 Wilson emphasizes the benefits of hiring experts for soundproofing projects instead of going the DIY route.
- Acoustic design philosophy 24:43 Wilson explains his approach to balancing acoustic design with practical studio needs.
- Understanding sound isolation 13:20 Wilson breaks down the fundamentals of sound isolation and what it takes to achieve it effectively.
- Investment in studio construction 20:15 A discussion on the financial aspects of building a studio and realistic budgeting.
Selected excerpts
I come from a very DIY background and I come as a musician first, and then a producer second, and then third, this weird new career as a studio designer and acoustician.
The best way to do it is to hire a professional... I'm not saying you can't [do it yourself], but I definitely am a little biased in that that's my career.
You want to be completely airtight, so the room has to be completely airtight, there's no leaks whatsoever, and it needs to have a ton of mass.
If you want it done right the first time, you probably should hire the pros.
A soundproof studio is definitely a luxury, but it’s something that if you really need or really want it, and you have the means, then it’s a good idea.
You're just going to get personal satisfaction from a space that's really personal to you and feels like your own, wherever that is.
FAQ
What are the main differences between soundproofing and sound treatment?
Soundproofing aims to prevent sound from entering or leaving a space, while sound treatment focuses on improving the sound quality within a room.
How much should I budget for building a soundproof studio?
On average, the cost for a professional soundproof studio build can range from $25,000 to $30,000, depending on materials and design complexity.
Is DIY soundproofing worth it?
While a DIY approach can be cheaper, it often comes with challenges. Hiring a professional can save time and ensure you're getting the best results.
Curated notes only — no public transcript. Listen on the links above.