The luxury of having a home recording studio is something every musician or recording engineer would love to have. Even if you live in an apartment, it’s possible to set up a home recording studio.
An apartment recording studio will allow you to record your own music, your friend’s music, or even your client’s music. In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the issues of building a studio in an apartment, and what you can do to make sure it goes smoothly.
We’re going to look at where you should set it up, how to avoid noise, acoustics, essential gear, and tips all revolving around the subject.
Best Area to Set Up in a Home Recording Studio in an Apartment
First things first, you’re probably wondering where you should consider building the studio in your apartment. If you’re fortunate enough to have a spare room, then that would obviously be the place to build your dream studio.
However, if you’re not lucky enough to have a spare room, we’re going to look at a few other options on where you can set up.
Below are a few bullets points that dive a little bit deeper into the specifics of where you should set up:
Spare Room
Just like one might imagine, the ideal spot for an apartment recording studio is a spare room. There are a few points to keep in mind with regard to a spare room.
First and foremost, you need to figure out the exact size of the room. This will help you map out the exact dimensions of everything you want and need. If you don’t know the exact size of the room, you might buy some equipment that is too large for the space. Which will cause you to waste money and time.
You also need to plan out the acoustics of the room. If you live in a cramped apartment in a crowded building, chances are, it’s loud and noisy. The more noise you give, the more annoyed the people around you will be.
The advantage of having a designated recording room is you can dedicate all of your acoustic treatment and soundproof to that specific room. Make sure you soundproof windows, doors, walls, and the ceiling of the room.
Although soundproofing might take away from the overall acoustic sound of the room, eliminating the noise you’re creating should be your number one priority with this.
If you create a ton of noise, you more than likely will draw a complaint and may have to deal with authorities. Both of which aren’t good.
Take your time mapping out the proper sound treatment of the room, and you should be fine. Also, be aware of your surroundings. If you live in a crowded apartment building and don’t have any soundproofing of your room, maybe you shouldn’t record a drum kit or a loud amp.
Unused Corner
Since most of us don’t have the luxury of having a spare room, you can set up a specific corner or section of the apartment for recording.
Maybe your living room is big enough to have a little recording section in the corner. Or maybe your own bedroom is big enough to have a designated area for recording. Think of areas of your apartment that aren’t heavily utilized.
It’s entirely up to you, but the same notion for soundproofing a room should be brought to this as well. If you plan on recording live instruments, you need to make sure you don’t annoy your neighbors.
Creating a vocal booth or an isolated area for amps is very easy to do. They’re a great method to use for a recording studio that is in a noisy area.
Besides the sound requirements, you need to think about the size. The size of your recording studio depends on what you want to accomplish.
Luckily, we live in an age where equipment is extremely compact and there are digital replacements for live instrumentation.
You’d be surprised at the amount of recording material you can accomplish with just a microphone, computer, and a couple of instruments.
Eliminate Noise from Neighbors
As noted, the main issue with apartment recording studios is noise. Besides the noise you may cause, the noise from other neighbors can be a burden to figure out. We all understand how important the avoidance of wanted noise is.
Just like you’d sound treat a normal studio, you should apply the same tactics toward your apartment recording studio. Below is a general list of what you can do to eliminate noise from neighbors:
Acoustic Panels
Acoustic panels are sound-absorbing products. They’re often confused as sound-proofing products. As you might suspect, this is the main tool you should use to eliminate unwanted sound.
You can either build them yourself or buy them online. You can find a ton of resources online with regard to building them or buying them. Hang a bunch of these up, and you’ll be golden.
Insulating Sealant
This is more of a DIY (do it yourself) setup but it’s extremely useful. Buy some insulating sealant foam and throw it on the crevices of your door and windows.
It’ll surprisingly work like a charm. You can buy the product at your local hardware store.
Door Sweep
Although a door sweep is thought of as something people use to eliminate drafts from coming, they’re great for soundproofing too.
You can also buy a door sweep that is designated for sound absorption. All of this can be found online. They’re definitely something every studio should utilize; no matter the size.
Soundproof Curtain
Just like you would buy a curtain for your window, you can buy a curtain that is meant for sound absorption.
Just like everything else, you can find a plethora of soundproof curtains online.
A Rug
Although this might seem useless, having a big rug in the center of your room is a great way to absorb unwanted noise.
A fluffy rug deadens the sound through the floor. Meaning they’re useful for noise that comes below you.
Make sure you find a decent rug. You don’t want to cheap out and have a useless rug at the center of your studio. Buy one that’s fluffy enough to absorb the unwanted sound.
Avoid Causing Noise
As noted, the biggest issue with an apartment recording is the noise you may end up causing, However, there are ways around this.
The easiest being to rely on digital instrumentation and less live recording. However, if you need to record live instrumentation, there are ways around it.
Below are a few tactics you can do to properly soundproof your apartment recording studio:
Wall Padding
The number one way to soundproof your room is by using absorbent panels. Just like you expect, they absorb the sound that comes from your room.
The most popular size of an absorbent panel is 12”x12”. These are great for absorbing high and low frequencies.
You can either build them yourself or buy them online. Make sure you do the proper research on the size of your recording area and how many you’ll need to properly soundproof your room.
Isolation Pads
Wherever you have the bulk of your “live instrumentation”, you should consider putting an isolation pad under them.
This can be as simple as a fluffy rug or an isolation foam pad.
If you’re feeling ambitious and want to record live drums, then you’ll definitely need isolation pads to completely eliminate the vibrations for the drum kit.
Door Sweep
Just like they’re great for eliminating outside noise, a door sweep is great for eliminating your own noise.
As noted, you buy a door sweep that is designated for soundproofing. All of this can be found online. They’re definitely something you need if you want to eliminate the noise from your studio.
Insulating Sealant
Besides eliminating outside noise, the insulating sealant is great for eliminating your own noise.
As noted, you can buy some insulating sealant foam at your local hardware store. You put it on the crevices of your door and windows.
It should work very well and is a great cheap and effective method.
Acoustics
Just like a regular studio, the acoustics of an apartment studio are important. You want to make sure you have a proper area for recording. Meaning it’s a hardwood floor, high ceilings, and a big enough space to record in. All of the rest can be easily manipulated.
Since we already went over what you need to properly soundproof your room, this section will be focused on sound treating your room.
Without going into too much detail, below is a general list of what you’ll need to properly acoustic treat your studio:
Acoustic Panels
Acoustic panels are a valuable tool in creating a comfortable and functional sound environment. These panels are used to absorb mid/high frequencies, which can often create an unpleasant and distracting listening experience. Building or buying acoustic panels is a straightforward process that can significantly improve the quality of your sound environment.
If you’re interested in building acoustic panels. You’ll need to select the appropriate materials, such as insulation or foam, to create a structure that can effectively absorb sound waves. Many online resources can guide you through the process of building your panels. This way you can tailor the design to your specific needs.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more convenient option. You can buy acoustic panels online. Many retailers offer a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials to meet your needs. By purchasing acoustic panels, you can save time and effort, while still improving the acoustics of your space.
Whether you choose to build or buy acoustic panels, it’s essential to consider their placement carefully. Installing panels in strategic locations can help maximize their effectiveness and improve your sound environment. By absorbing mid/high frequencies, acoustic panels can help create a more pleasant and productive space for listening, working, and relaxing.
Bass Traps
Bass traps are an essential component of any acoustically optimized space. They are specifically designed to absorb low frequencies, which can build up and create an unpleasant, boomy sound in a room.
If you are considering installing bass traps, you have two main options. The first is to build them yourself, which can be a cost-effective and rewarding DIY project. With a few basic materials and some know-how. You can create effective bass traps that will improve the sound quality of your space.
Alternatively, you can buy bass traps online. This is a convenient alternative if you don’t have the time, resources, or expertise to build your own. There are many different types of bass traps available, from simple foam panels to more complex designs that incorporate advanced acoustic technologies.
When deciding whether to build or buy bass traps. It’s necessary to assess your budget, your time limitations, and your level of expertise. DIY bass traps can be a fun and rewarding project, but they may not be the best choice for everyone.
On the other hand. Buying bass traps online can be a quick and easy way to improve the sound quality of your space. However, it may also be more costly than building your own. Ultimately, the choice between building or buying bass traps will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Diffusers
Diffusers, which are essential in any acoustic treatment setup, are designed to scatter all remaining frequencies that may not have been absorbed by acoustic panels or bass traps. If you’re an audiophile or a sound engineer, you may want to consider building diffusers yourself or buying them online to complete your soundproofing setup.
When it comes to the number of acoustic treatment elements you’ll need, including bass traps, acoustic panels, and diffusers, it depends on the size and type of room you’re working with. Larger rooms with high ceilings, for instance, may require more acoustic treatment elements compared to smaller ones. That said, it’s crucial to do the proper research to determine the right amount of these items you need to purchase or make.
Keep in mind that using too many diffusers can negatively affect the sound quality in your room. It’s best to strike a balance and place them strategically to avoid over-diffusing the space. The goal is to achieve a sound that’s natural and free from any unwanted echoes or reflections.
By taking the time to research and invest in the right acoustic treatment elements, including diffusers, you’ll be able to enjoy a soundproofed room that’s perfect for music production, podcasting, or any other sound-related activity.
For more information on Acoustic Panels, Bass Traps, and Diffusers. Read our reviews for Best Acoustic Panels Review & Buyer’s Guide, Best Bass Traps Review & Buyer’s Guide and Best Acoustic Diffusers Review & Buyer’s Guide.
Essential Gear for an Apartment
Since this article isn’t meant for gear, I’m not going to dive too much into the kind of gear you’ll need. However, I’ll note a few things that I think are essential for an apartment studio. Below are a few bullet-points that represent this:
Computer
Every studio needs a great computer. Since you’re trying to build a home studio in your apartment, you’re going to need a great computer.
You’ll more than likely run into issues recording live instrumentation. Meaning you’ll have to rely on the DAW software of your computer to replicate this.
If you have a bad computer, you’re not going to be able to record properly or accomplish what you want to accomplish.
For more information on Computers for Music Production. Read our reviews for the Best PC’s for Music Production and Best Laptops for Music Production.
Microphone/Audio Interface
It’s obvious you’re going to need the tools necessary to record. No matter what type of music you’re going to record, you’ll need an audio interface and microphone.
You more than likely will need multiple microphones, but for now, focus on getting one really good microphone for vocals. The rest can come after.
Since an apartment is such a small space to record in, you’re going to need the essentials first. Once you figure out the soundproofing and sound treating, then you’ll be able to add more gear into the mix.
For more information on All Purpose Mics. Read our reviews for Best All Purpose Microphone for Recording Review & Buyer’s Guide and Best Budget Audio Interface Review & Buyer’s Guide.
Tips to Set Up a Home Recording Studio in an Apartment
There are a ton of things people recommend for a home studio. Since this might be an overwhelming article, down below are a few tips I recommend:
Utilize Multitaskers
Since you’re dealing with little space, it’s best to get tools that are multitaskers. Meaning you should get gear that can do more than one thing.
By doing this, you’ll eliminate the amount of storage you’ll need. In this day and age, you can have a ton of gear options that do multiple things.
Embrace the Virtual World (Virtual instruments, plugins etc.)
Let’s be honest, recording from an amplifier or drum kit in an apartment is very difficult. Instead of going through the difficulty of doing this, embrace your DAW software.
If you have good enough DAW software, you should have a number of tools to use. Ranging from virtual amplification to MIDI drums.
You’ll be surprised at the number of things your DAW software can do.
However, if you find it necessary to record live instrumentation, don’t freak out. If you have a difficult time setting it up in your apartment, you could always go to your practice space or a friend’s space to record the live instrumentation.
Bring your laptop, record, and bring the recording back home.
Compact Gear
Storage is important with any studio; especially ones with little space. The more compact gear you use, the easier the storage will be.
If you bring a bunch of 8 by 10 amps in your apartment, it’s going to be nearly impossible to store away. Consider one or two smaller amplifiers for bass and guitar if need be.
Just be smart at the amount of space you have. If you want an apartment recording studio then you’re going to have to make sacrifices. Meaning you can’t buy a bunch of gear and expect to fit it all.
Q and A
Since this is such a popular subject amongst musicians and recording engineers, below are a few common questions about this subject:
“How much does it cost to build a home studio?”
Since recording is such a vast topic, the question to this answer has such a wide range. This all depends on what you want to accomplish.
If you’re looking to build a professional-level studio, then you more than likely will have to spend thousands of dollars on your studio.
With regard to an apartment recording studio, you’re going to have to spend even more on soundproofing and sound treatment. This is mainly because of how small of a space and noisy an apartment is.
Now if you’re to build a studio for demos or for fun, then you can spend as little as a few hundred dollars. You can technically own a computer with a DAW software and a microphone and call it a studio.
“How can I record professional vocals at home?”
There are a few things to consider when recording vocals at home. Below are a few bullets points that touch on this:
- Make Sure Whoever is Recording is Prepared – This is kind of self-explanatory, but you want to make sure whoever is recording the vocals is in the zone. Meaning they have their part down and can sing it properly. Some singers think they can just wing it and edit it to perfection. The truth is that this strays from the best quality it can be. Basically, don’t be lazy and expect to magically record vocals because you have some software that’ll “edit” it.
- Dry Room – Recording vocals should be done in a neutral dry room. Meaning you should avoid huge reverberated rooms. To accomplish this, you can build your own vocal booth. There are a ton of ways people can build their own vocal booth. Some of which are extremely cheap.
- Position the Microphone and Pop Filter Correctly – This sounds self-explanatory, but double-check that your microphone and pop filter is on correctly. Sometimes people use them incorrectly without realizing it. Always double-check what you’re doing and you should be fine.
- Use the Right Microphone Level – After the microphone warms up, check on your DAW software to what level is it. Make sure it’s not peaking and far away from the “red zone” of the measurement.
“How much does a studio session cost?”
Studio sessions vary from studio to studio. They tend to vary on the expertise of the person who is recording. So, if you’re a beginner, maybe you shouldn’t book anyone to record yet. Once you feel confident enough, start by charging 15 USD an hour.
Once you gain more experience and abilities, you can start to charge more. Some recording engineers are able to charge over 100 USD an hour because of their reputation alone. Try to achieve that goal!
“How do I soundproof cheaply?”
Although cutting corners soundproofing isn’t recommended, there are a few ways to soundproof cheaply:
- Curtains – Curtains are natural soundproofing tools. Use them!
- Rugs – As noted earlier in the article, rugs are great to use to eliminate vibration.
- Furniture – The more furniture you have, the more sound will be absorbed because it’ll have less room to travel.
You really shouldn’t soundproof as cheap as possible when it comes to a studio. Especially if you’re looking to build a professional recording studio. It may be expensive to soundproof a studio, but it’s something you’re going to need to do. Especially for an apartment recording studio.
“What can help block sound?”
Acoustic foam is a popular choice for many people. It’s made of sound-absorbing materials that reduce the transmission of sound. Sound insulation, on the other hand, is ideal for stopping noise from getting into a room. This type of insulation is installed between the walls, floors, and ceilings.
Acoustic panels are another option that can help block sound. These panels are designed to absorb sound and are often used in studios or home theaters. If you prefer something more flexible, acoustic fabrics are a good choice. They are lightweight and easy to install. Making them ideal for a variety of applications.
Acoustic coatings are a newer technology that helps to block sound. They are typically applied to walls and ceilings and can help to reduce noise transmission. Moving blankets are another option that can help to reduce sound levels. They are made of heavy-duty materials. they can also be hung on walls or draped over windows.
Mass-loaded vinyl is a popular material used for soundproofing. It is a heavy, dense material that is often used as an underlayment for floors or as a barrier for walls. Soundproof fiberglass is another option that can help to reduce noise. It is often used in wall cavities or ceilings.
If you are looking to soundproof a floor, then floor underlayment is a good choice. This material helps to reduce the transmission of sound from one room to another. For those who prefer a spray-on solution. A sound-deadening spray is a good option. It is typically used on walls and ceilings and can help to reduce noise levels.
With these tools at your disposal, you can effectively block sound and enjoy a quieter living or working space.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Let’s go over everything we discussed in this article.
We went over the want for an apartment home recording studio and the issues facing it. Such as picking the right area for it, and eliminating noise for it. Going over acoustic panels, insulating sealants, door sweeps, soundproof curtains, wall padding, isolation pads, bass traps, and diffusers. All of which are an important key to a successful recording studio in an apartment.
Then we went over the essential gear for an apartment recording studio. Discussing computers, microphones, and audio interfaces.
I talked about some tips such as utilizing multitaskers, the virtual world, and compact gear. Why all of these are important and how they can help you.
Lastly, we went over some common questions about this subject. Such as the cost, recording vocals, studio session cost, and how to soundproof cheaply.
We hope this article allowed you to understand more about setting up a recording studio in an apartment. At the very least it taught you some information you didn’t know about before.
Last, but not least, if you plan on creating your own recording studio in your apartment, start planning. Come up with a budget, blueprint, and a list of goals.
Doing this will allow you to come up with a timeline for your studio and before you know it, you’ll have your entire dream right in front of you.
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About the Author
Michael-B is a Music Producer, Musician, and Formally Trained (and was Certified by the Recording Institute of Detroit in 1986) Recording Engineer. As of to date, He's built 3 home recording studios go back to 1987, where he wrote, played all the instruments, and recorded his music. Michael B is also a Writer, Chief Editor and SEO of TrackinSolo.com