Preventing noise travel through walls?

MeddlingKids -


Unfortnately, there is only one thing that will block low frequency sounds - mass. Padding, acoustical foam, insultation and the like are good for absorbing high frequencies, but will have almost no effect on low bass frequencies.


In years past, recording studios actually used lead sheeting to block low frequency sounds. Often times, dual sand-filled cinderblock walls are used.


A dual wall structure is required at a minimum. This prevents vibrations from the inner wall from being transferred directly to the outer wall. No matter what you do with a single wall, vibrations will be transferred through the wall.


- Jim

Quote:
There is a technique to do this with stud and drywall construction that is often used in dedicated HT rooms. Stagger alternate studs an inch or more before sheeting with drywall. This decouples the two sides of the wall, effectively making it a double wall. Then double-sheet with drywall. There are also techniques for isolating the drywall layers and the drywall from the studs. Additional acoustic insulation can be added within the wall.


This won't stop low bass, but will attenutate it some and will do pretty well with the higher frequencies.


Better place to ask this question is the Home Theater Builder section of AVSforum.