First Steps for Basement space improvement

I have a small finished basement space that I want to improve acoustically and would appreciate any of your wondrous guidance. I have already learned a great deal from searching old posts. The room is 21’x13’ with low 7’3” ceilings. There are also two covered HVAC ducts along the ceiling reducing the height beneath them to 6’4”. Background: I’m a cellist and do mostly acoustic recording of overdubbed string music. I’m looking to get rid of bad reflections and create a nice ‘neutral’ playing/recording space. Floor – Currently the room is carpeted but I’m looking at putting in hardwood for a more reflective surface. Walls – painted wood paneling. A lot of parallel surfaces. Would like to remove paneling and dry wall which would give me the opportunity to create some different wall angles. The two windows, fireplace, and circuit box create a few obstacles. Ceiling – was thinking of putting a ‘cloud panel’ made of 703 insulation boards above the area that I play from and possibly the mixing area. Good idea? I’ve built four panels using 705 that are now leaned up against corners. Can anyone suggest a starting point?! I have $1500-2000 to begin with. Thanks, Derek

Aloha and welcome to the forum, Derek Here's a good place to read up on acoustics, absorbers, and construction principles: http://www.saecollege.de/reference_material/index.html Wall Units and placements: http://www.johnlsayers.com/HR/index1.htm If you care to, here's a couple of links to an acoustic treatment/build/install threads: http://johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic ... ght=#15598 http://johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=4091 Hope this helps, Aloha 8)

Thanks for the reply Kendale. And the links. You've done some great work! Given me all sorts of ideas. Looking forward to reading through all those past posts. Thanks again, Derek