Taming the Beast:
Noise Control in Mobile Studios
- The battle against noise in the life of a mobile studio starts at Scouting stage. (A subject which we will cover later.)
But the fight for pristine audio quality starts long before filming begins – in the design phase of the mobile studio itself. Here, two crucial factors come into play:
– Sound Isolation
– Acoustics. (We will cover this subject more in detail later.)
Building a Soundproof Fortress
“Recording studios are like a sanctuary for musicians. It’s where we can escape the outside world and focus on the music.” – Bono
Sound isolation acts like a fortress wall, blocking unwanted noise from the outside world. The materials and design of this barrier are carefully chosen based on the desired level of noise reduction, which in turn is dictated by the end use. For example, the “floor noise” level for recording dialogue is different from music or video games. All parameters should be taken into consideration when quantifying the amount of noise we aim to block.
The Mobility Challenge
Unlike traditional studios with fixed locations, mobile units face a unique challenge: they can’t control their environment. To combat this, many mobile studios are designed for the worst-case scenario. Some, like ours, offer a significant level of noise reduction – in our case, a whopping 50 decibels (db). While this might be overkill in quiet settings, it’s a lifesaver in noisy urban environments.
Soundproofing Strategies for Different Needs
This is where the term “over-kill” will be very well put! Plan for what you need. If you envision using your mobile studio in a more permanent location, say for a seasonal production, where you have more control over outside noise, then you might be able to get away with 40db noise reduction. Strategic parking and a less rigorous soundproofing approach might be sufficient. By understanding your specific needs, you can optimize the soundproofing level for your project.
The Low Hum: A Different Kind of Noise
Hum can be caused by electrical interference whereas a Low-Hum is -structural vibrations traveling through the ground-. This can be anything from heavy machinery in a building to an A/C or a generator. But in the case of a mobile unit, it can be a rumbling truck or a bus passing by.
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The Secret Weapon: Tires and Innovation
Fortunately, mobile studios have a secret weapon against low hum – tires!
These natural low-frequency isolators, combined with specialized buffers on the stabilizing jacks, significantly reduce these unwanted vibrations. This is why a mobile studio can achieve pristine recordings even in the heart of a bustling city. Our best experience was when we recorded Chef Ramsay’s radio spots at the side of the 6th street in downtown Los Angeles!
So, next time you hear a low rumble, don’t worry. Our mobile unit is an oasis of sonic calm. We’ve got the science (and the tires) on our side to ensure crystal-clear recordings, no matter the location.
