When purchasing a soundproof room, the part you can least afford to fail at is “Size Selection.” “Even though it was expensive, the bow hits the wall and I can’t play…” “Once I set up a music stand, I can’t move…”
To prevent such tragedies, we’ll explain how to choose not just by the “number of mats” in the catalog, but by the actual “interior dimensions (effective space).”
The Trap of Mat Notations: Look at the “Interior,” Not the “Exterior”#
Sizes like “1.2 mats” or “2.0 mats” written in the catalog usually refer to the “exterior dimensions” of the soundproof room.
Since the walls of a soundproof room are around 10cm thick, the “interior dimensions (the actual space usable inside)” will be one size smaller. Be sure to check the “Interior Dimensions (W×D×H)” in the specifications and get a sense of the width by applying marking tape or something similar to your room.
Recommended Instrument List by Size#
Here is a summary of suitable uses by size of general unit soundproof rooms.
0.8 to 1.0 Mats (Telephone Booth Size)#
Extremely cramped. Limited to uses with little movement.
- OK: Vocals, narration, clarinet, flute (barely), oboe.
- NG: Guitar (neck hits), violin (bow hits).
- Note: Long-term stays can feel claustrophobic, and the risk of oxygen deficiency is also higher.
1.2 to 1.5 Mats (Standard Size)#
The best-selling sizes, but can be a bit awkward depending on the instrument.
- OK: Alto saxophone, guitar vocals, violin (standing), DTM desk (small).
- Caution: Trombone (possible if placed diagonally), tenor saxophone (a bit cramped).
- Note: At least 1.5 mats are needed to put in an upright piano, but 2.0 mats are ideal when considering tuning space.
2.0 to 2.5 Mats (Private Room Feeling)#
Suitable for instruments with movement, pianos, and comfortable desk work.
- OK: Upright piano, trombone, cello, two PC desks (streaming environment).
- Note: At this size, serious consideration for delivery to the room and air conditioner installation is also necessary.
3.0 Mats and Up (Studio Class)#
For putting in a grand piano (C3 class), start from here. Ensemble practice (two or more people) also becomes possible.
Installation Space and Maintenance Space#
What is easily forgotten is the space on the “outside” of the soundproof room.
- Air Layer: It is mandatory to install at least 5cm to 10cm away from the walls of the original room (to ensure soundproofing performance and prevent mold).
- Assembly Space: Space for construction workers to work is necessary.
- Opening/Closing the Door: Soundproof doors are heavy and typically open outwards. Confirm that there are no furniture within the radius where the door opens.
Summary: Because it’s an Expensive Purchase, Do a “Newspaper Simulation”#
If you’re unsure about the size, try taping newspapers together to create the “interior dimensions” of the room you’re considering on the floor. Place a music stand and a chair there and try holding your instrument.
“Ah, the bow hits.” “I can’t turn around.” This real feeling is the correct answer, more so than catalog values.
Related Articles#
- [Trombone Space]: Preventing “Slide Collision” - 1.5 Mats vs. 2.0 Mats
- [Violin Height]: Ceiling Height over Floor Space! Reasons to Choose the High Type