Sound Proofing ANd Sound ABsorbtion?

Auralex is your best bet. Google 'em.

Fair warning, though, Chris... you are in search of the Holy Grail. Short of building sound-smart walls within your space (thereby decreasing your space), there really isn't much that can be done to retrofit a space for good sound.

One option I have seen work - and that NOBODY seems to think of - is to create a "cone of silence" over your kit. Think of those enormous mosquito nets they put over swanky beds in tropical climates. Now replace the mosquito net with heavy velvet theater curtains. Badda-boom, badda-bing... the Cone of Silence! (Or, more accurately, the Cone of Quieter.)

If done right, the curtains can be raised up to the ceiling when the drum kit is not in use, and create a cool-looking ring of swagged drapery up near the ceiling. Kinda cool aesthetic....

And finally, look in to a "White Noise" generator. Ever wonder why you can't hear the people in the next examination room at the Dr's office? White noise generators in the ceiling. (Although the environment they create feels a little... odd...)

Good luck.

This would be an interesting time to bring me in Chris. We could find some creative solutions that not only work but look good :)

Anyone know where to get the aforementioned heavy theatre curtains, or any sort of noise-reducing thick curtains? I have thought that something like that would be nice on our major-arterial-facing windows.

Thanks, Mariette

Christian is so right on this, it is the holy grail. His solution is really the best not to mention rather elegant. You could also look at acoustical textiles.

For the windows, Mariette, I would suggest double drapes. One rod in front of the other. You can also line your drapes with another fabric. You can do that with iron on webbing or possibly for a quick job, try it with baby safety pins to see if it makes a difference. If you own your place, there is the alternative of installing audio reducing glass.

Finally, call Amy, she will come up with some stylish options.

A water fountain can knock out a lot of noise and give you a shot of relaxation at the same time.

Fabric, rugs,furniture all absorb noise. Hopefully your neighbors will like your jam! Sounds like a great opportunity to make friends. It's nice to hear you like where you live that's a blessing.

Carpets, textiles and plush furniture will absorb a certain amount-even adding pillows will help. Christian's cone of silence is really inventive. After you add the rest, you may want to invest in some commercial sound proofing materials that you can take with you as you move your residence.

Googling sound proof residential or commercial products will bring up a multitude of solutions. Look at the ones for home theaters.

Good luck, sound is a very sensitive and personal issue.

You might chat with Matthew Brown who did a lot of research on this when we were planning a move into the converted Rainier Brewery.

Also, there's a thing called 705 rigid Fiberglas. It comes in panels, can be hung on your walls, and disguised behind fabric or artwork (no glass). Check it out.

Hey Chris. I have many years of experience in this field designing and building recording studios, etc., and am happy to share what I've learned. Let's talk about the nuances of you situation. I'll DM you.

One of my favorite things to do when needing sound "adjustments' (learned after living in cheap apartments in the 70's and 80's). If you know folks who buy eggs in flats (dozen and a half) have them save the flats. Then, with a staple gun you can attach them to your walls. They work great and are paintable as well as removable after accidental dammage.