If you’re seeking the ultimate musical environment, your choice will be a large soundproof room of 2 tatami or more.
Released from “practicing in a narrow space”, this class, where you can pursue the original resonance of the instrument, is the “correct answer” for professional performers, music college students, and grand piano owners.
In this article, we will explain the value brought by a spacious 2 tatami or more and the “technical walls” you will inevitably face when introducing it.
Benefits for “Sound” Brought by Space of 2 to 3 Tatami#
It’s not just “spacious and comfortable”. Spaciousness directly correlates with sound quality.
- Rich Reverberation Control: In a narrow room, sounds tend to reflect off the walls and saturate (too loud), but if it’s 2 tatami or more, there is extra room in the space, making it easier to design an appropriate reverberation (reverb).
- Suitability for Grand Pianos: If it’s 3 tatami or more, a grand piano (C3 size or smaller) can be carried in, and space for a tuner to work can be secured.
- Ensemble with Multiple People: If it’s 2.5 to 3 tatami, two-person lessons for teachers and students, and small ensembles (trios, etc.) are also possible.
“Three Walls” to Know Before Introduction#
Large soundproof rooms are not all about benefits. There are hurdles that are incomparable to models of 1.5 tatami or less.
1. The Wall of “Weight” (Necessity of Floor Reinforcement)#
A 2 tatami soundproof room weighs 700kg to 900kg for the body alone, and if it’s 3 tatami or more, it exceeds one ton. Furthermore, if a grand piano (300kg〜) is to be placed, the floor of a general house cannot withstand it as it is.
- Measures: If it’s a house, install it on the first floor and reinforce the foundation. If it’s an apartment, confirm the load capacity with the management company and devise measures such as using a base panel (a plate that allows weight to escape on a surface).
2. The Wall of “Carry-in”#
Large panels do not go through the elevator or entrance of an apartment.
- Measures: “Dismantling and carry-in” where it is disassembled and carried as small panels, or “crane work” where it is hoisted from the balcony will be necessary, and the shipping cost will jump up (+$1,000〜).
3. The Wall of “Air Conditioning and Electricity”#
Because the space is large, only a small fan will make the air stagnant.
- Measures: Installation of air conditioning is essential. Also, if many pieces of equipment and lighting are to be used, electrical work to pull in an electrical system dedicated to the soundproof room should also be considered.
Summary: 2 Tatami or More is a “Lifetime Studio”#
The initial cost ($15,000 to $30,000) and the effort of installation are very large, but once you get it, it becomes a supreme studio where no one bothers you 24/7/365.
For those who want to “connect hobbies to work” or “pursue sound in the best environment”, choosing 2 tatami or more should be the best investment that changes the quality of life.
