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 drum related products
and topics. http://www.megadrumsets.com

Drum sets, drum accessories, drum parts:
Yamaha, Gretsch, Ludwig, Pearl, Tama, DW