Need an alternative to a barrier wall

Started by Raybo on 30 August 2005. 2 replies.

Originally posted at johnlsayers.com, topic 4287.

My first post here -- thankyou-- I'm a composer. This is a straightforward question so I'm not including a floor plan. I just moved into a new rental apt in a crowded New York City high rise bldg. My studio room will be very simple, an uprite piano, a project studio table with near fields, and a synth. An office desk and couch. It's primarily for writing and occassional small recording projects, like recording a singer or instrumentalist -- as well as meetings with collaborators, directors, producers, co-writers, etc. The room is about 20' x 12' x 8' ceiling. One wall shares with a loud neighbor who blasts a boombox every afternoon that makes the wall and my head shake from the vibration. I got her to move the boombox off her wall, and it improved from unbearable to just bad. I don't want to complain too much since I'll be making music and war is never the answer. I don't crank it very often -- but live piano and singing will travel -- as well as a sax, trumpet, etc. It's a modern high-rise building with lame construction. Sheetrock -- empty inside with metal studs -- sheetrock. Hardwood floors. I can hear her apt "ambience" with my ear to the wall when it's quiet. I'm afraid to build a barrier wall -- that's against the rules in the bldg and they inspect once or twice a year. I'm an honest guy and I hate the idea of "sneaking in" construction materials like sheetrock. Any alternative ideas to "room within a room" soundproofing construction...? What are alternatives to building a barrier wall? -- even if just to make it 75% better. I'm willing to spend a couple of thousand dollars if necessary. I'm considering buying expensive finished decorative paneling, filled with OC 703, covered in fabric and custom made with mass loaded vinyl attached to the backs of each panel. It will take about 20 panels (2'x4'x2"deep) to cover the entire wall. I don't know if it can create a seamless covering. You can see them here: http://www.acousticalsurfaces.com/fabric_panel/fpswallp.htm?d=4 What do you think? I welcome any ideas. Moving --- or bribing -- or murdering the neighbor is not an option.. Much appreciated -- this is making me crazy.
Raybo wrote:
Moving --- or bribing -- or murdering the neighbor is not an option..
Too Funny LOL Anyways welcome to the forum and have you tried doing a search yet?
THIS IS NO LAUGHING MATTER!! :D Just kidding -- Yes I tried searching and looked at lots of wise threads -- but did not find "an alternative to a barrier wall".. There are so many smart designers on this forum -- I hope for advice.