Soundproofing Drum Set Tips For Noise Reduction

Are you looking for soundproofing drum set tips for noise reduction in your apartment, garage or shed?  Is your hobby or livelihood as a drummer being threatened by family or neighbor complaints?  Granted, drumming is what you like to do but It can be quite annoying to those that are subjected to the noise.  We will take a look at some helpful tips, both expensive and inexpensive, to get you back on track to having fun.

Expensive soundproofing

One of the most expensive ways to soundproof would be creating a room within a room.  This pertains to a garage or shed providing there will be enough space for the drums and for you to maneuver about.  Essentially, you will be framing and putting up walls, a door, and window if necessary.

You will want to have the new walls 4 to 6 inches away from the existing wall.  This gap creates a barrier and will absorb much of the sound.  Keep in mind for extra sound protection, insulate and sheet rock the existing walls if the framing is exposed.  Attach egg cartons,12” x 12” flats, available at an egg distribution center or carton shaped foam to the sheet rock.

After you finished the framework for the new wall, check to see if you will need electrical outlets.  This needs to be done before the final attachment of the new walls.  Hire a qualified electrical contractor for any electrical applications.  It is possible that you may have to apply for a building/electrical permit, so be sure to check with local ordinances.

Attach ¾” particle board panels to the framing, paying attention to the alignment of electrical outlets, if needed.  Add carpet or egg carton shaped foam to all the walls.  * If outlets are installed, make sure that a fire extinguisher is available nearby in case of an emergency.  Last, if the ground floor is concrete or wood, lay down carpet that will cover the floor wall to wall.  A good inexpensive carpet
to use would be an indoor/outdoor carpet mostly used in outdoor patios.  If you are not comfortable in taking on the huge task of soundproofing using inner walls, by all means hire a contractor.  Again, check with local ordinances for possible building and electrical permits.  Cost will vary on the specifics of what it will take to build but a pretty good estimate can run from $3,500 and much higher.

Electronic drum set

The advantage of using electronic drums is that you can play them with the use of headphones.  You will be able to hear all of the drum sounds with barely any noise from tapping on the drum pads.  These sets can be played wherever an electrical outlet is available and do not take up too much room..  Electronic sets vary in price from a fairly inexpensive amount of $500 up to $6,000.

Drum pads

The least inexpensive way to go would be the addition of drum pads.  The pads are made of rubber or neoprene and fit right on the drumheads and cymbals.  You may hear a bit of tone but the overall volume is diminished considerably.  The bass drum may nee additional muffling by stuffing the drum shell with pillow or blankets.  You can find the pads at a low cost of $20, depending on what you will need for your set.

Whatever route you take to help minimize the drum noise, it is understood that you are making a conscious effort to be considerate of others and still enjoy your drumming.

About the author:

Thaddeus W. Johnson is a writer, professional drummer and drum teacher who enjoys providing tips and valuable information for online shoppers of the best drum sets such as the Ludwig drum set. Also, for further interest are related products and topics such as www.megadrumsets.com/Pearl1.html

C 2008 Thaddeus W Johnson

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