When you walk into a recording studio, there is usually a feeling of tranquility and inspiration. But what most don’t consider is the behind-the-scenes work to create the ultimate sound design. A studio must not only look good, but it must sound good.
To accomplish this a number of techniques and meticulously created layouts must be applied. This helps create the most optimal environment for an artist. Let’s talk about how they do it.
The Initial Thought Process.
Creating an ultimate recording space requires the right tools. But we can’t just dive right in. A thought process and planning must occur first. Most designers are considered to be audiophiles because they love the pursuit of creating the perfect sound space. Consider it to be very similar to a wine connoisseur.
By adding a bunch of speakers without much thought to where they go, echoes, feedback and other unwanted noise can significantly degrade the quality of the recording. Here are the main concepts that are considered.
Considering the Reflection and Absorption.
Two of the most important pieces to consider when designing a space where music lives are the reflection and absorption of that sound. Aesthetics come after the acoustics are prioritized. This is because a space can look beautiful but sound awful. It’s better to sound beautiful and look awful from a functionality standpoint.
Because of this, anyone designing a space must take these concepts into account:
- Materials must be carefully selected for reflection to occur allowing the right amount of echo.
- Materials must be carefully selected for sound to be properly absorbed instead of reflected.
- Different materials and objects must help diffuse the sound to move it equally through the room.
Diffusers are different from reflectors and absorbers. This is because they help control reflection. Absorbers also aid in this department. By understanding the relationship between the three, one can use all three to create the perfect recording space.
Technology Is Valuable In The Process.
Materials and technology must work together in order to create the right audio space. There are many different elements, such as diffusers, bass traps, and smart acoustic panels, that can be altered on the spot.
Technology, in general, will allow for real-time adjustment that can make corrections as opposed to stagnant objects. Consider adding these tech pieces to your line.
- High-resolution audio players assist with different audio formats to increase the resolution and clarity of the sound after recording.
- Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) convert any digital audio signals from computers or smartphones into analog so that they can be played on headphones or speakers. It also increases the sound quality.
- Amplifiers seek to increase the power of audio signals so that it doesn’t lose any quality when turned up. This reduces the risk of a compromised audio file.
- Quality speakers and headphones will help the true audio recording and sound that is being produced.
- Room acoustic technology, such as soundboards, can help change the dynamic to help with diffusion, absorption, and reflection.
Technology is a wonderful thing, including the platforms that we use to share music. But it’s easy to slap things together without knowing you’re doing more harm than good. Artists must dedicate the right time to go through the proper steps of designing a space and picking out materials.
This is similar to artists getting in trouble for infringed copyright by using music on Instagram. Without thinking many artists are quick to use other’s materials, not considering the consequences. Taking our time can help us avoid expensive mistakes both online and in the studio.
Prioritizing The Lay Out.
Once the materials are picked out, it’s important to consider the shape of the room and how the materials will fit into it. We don’t always have control of the shape of the room, but when we do, symmetry is key. Irregularly shaped rooms can bounce sound around in dramatic ways affecting both live and recording audio.
This involves a lot of mathematics, which is why it’s not as simple as throwing things together. Placing materials and objects in the room in the right space from eachother will help guide the sound in the right direction. With rooms that already have funky shapes, technology can come in to help minimize the negative repercussions.
How Functional Is Your Space?
An artist should be able to move freely around the room. Too much clutter and you lose the ability for the artist to express themselves because they may feel restricted freely. The room should be a fun space that sparks creativity and inspiration. The details are truly a must-have.
Aesthetically, you can create a vibe that can change the mood depending on those using the space. Is it a turned-up environment? Or should you consider something that is more relaxing and peaceful for the artist?
One mistake is putting a lot of comfortable furniture in the recording space that will absorb sound. Consider having anything like this outside of the recording space where artists can take a break and sit so that the sound moves through the room appropriately.
Carefully Curated.
Music is a meticulous process, and designing the space that is made in is no different. From the materials used, the quality of the materials, and the space itself, everything is important. It takes a unique individual who has both a creative eye for design and the brains to formulate the mathematics of spacing.
Arguably, artists should work hand in hand with their space designers because they can contribute to the aesthetics and mood of the room. This will allow them to feel like the space is of their own and create amazing music. Sound designing is also an ongoing process. Often things are updated and upgraded as better technology emerges. As with anything!
