Recording studio sound isolation: A case study of challenges faced in measuring door transmission class (DTC) and noise isolation class (NIC) in small rooms

Abstract

This case study examines the challenges faced in measuring the DTC and NIC between a recording studio control room and the studio recording space. Challenges included structural radiation around the tested partition, flanking paths, ADA ramp design, and improper use of the space during construction. The measurements were performed following the procedures of ASTM E2964-14 Standard Test Method for Measurement of the Normalized Insertion Loss of Doors and ASTM E336-19 Standard Test Method for Measurement of Airborne Sound Attenuation between Rooms in Budlings. The spaces were designed by an acoustical consultant and desired by the owner to have extremely high levels of sound isolation. Furthermore, the nature of the intended clientele necessitated high performance, a high finish level, and state of the art technology. The investigators were not part of the design team and were invited to measure the space to document and validate the final performance. This presentation will outline the findings, challenges in measurement, and the steps taken to increase the sound isolation performance.