How much is enough?

Hi all. Ive been recieving amazing help on the design of my studio on this forum, here. http://www.johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=4543 The structural plans are currently being drawn, and concerns have been raised about how much transmition will travel from my basement to the above floor. As mentioned in my first post, this studio will mainly be used for loud metal/hardcore bands, so the attenuation of noise upstairs is a high priority. While i fully appriciate there is no 100% fix, how much mass and air is needed before a workable solution is achieved? Due to the nature of what the rooms will be above, it really does have to stop MOST of the noise for it to be a worth while venture. Ive included a sketch of what the ceiling in the basement is currently like, and my plan how to beef it up. Any help or knowledge will be greaty recieved. Thanks in advance, oZ

If you're using separate frames for the upper floor and your room's ceiling, you don't need RC - it will only cost you more time and money. As to having a hardcore band playing downstairs and silence upstairs, I don't think that's possible unless everyone upstairs is already DEAF. You would need a gap between upper and lower ceiling panels of around 18 inches, and about TWICE the mass you've shown on your sketch in each location, and that might get you close. The low frequency will be the bitch, as usual... Steve

Thanks for the relpy. No R.C is good news as, like you said it saves time and ££! So...... 18" air gap and 4 layers hardboard either side of the floor boards, and 3 layers 5/8" plasterboard on new ceiling. Are we getting close? The diagram does not show the final layer of flooring, whether that be carpet or wooden flooring e.t.c As i said in my original post, i know it cant be 100%, BUT if we can get to a dull background noise upstairs when animal is downstairs doing a double kick rhythm, Im sure everyone would be happy :lol: Thanks for all the help so far. Got a meeting on the 5th Jan to iron out all these problems with the designers and owners of the building, so need as much amo.. I mean info as possible :wink: oZ

What's your current ceiling height? Be sure you have enough clearance when you're done, inclusive of your finished ceiling and floor, because there are surely minimum height requirements to pass code.

Mery xmas to all!! Keith, the height is low, 245cm:8'. Thats why a floating floor is a no go with the kind of work i need to do the ceiling. Any help really would be appriciated, as it is needed! oZ

How tall are the floor joists?

Hey man. Good question. I really dont know. I will try and find out. I also need to find out what the legal requirement is for ceiling heights. All the best for the new year. oZ 8)