“I want a soundproof room, but I don’t know which one to choose.” “What is the difference between a cheap simple soundproof room and a Yamaha soundproof room?”
There are three main types of soundproof rooms: “Simple Assembly Type, Unit Type, and Construction (Renovation) Type”. You should consider these as completely different things in terms of price and performance.
In conclusion, the type to choose is determined by “What (what kind of instrument), when (time period), and how seriously” you will do it.
In this article, we will compare the characteristics of the three types and explain how to choose the optimal soundproof room for you.
Comparison Table of 3 Soundproof Room Types#
First, let’s grasp the overall picture.
| Type | Simple Assembly (Simple Soundproof) | Unit Type (Fixed) | Soundproof Construction (Renovation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Products | Danbocchi, OTODASU | Yamaha (Avitecs), Kawai (Nasal) | Construction by professional contractors |
| Price Guide | $1,000 - $3,000 | $5,000 - $15,000 | $20,000 - |
| Soundproof Performance | Low (Dr-15 - 25) Conversation level | Medium - High (Dr-30 - 40) Piano/Singing almost stops | Highest (Dr-50 -) Drum/Studio level |
| Main Applications | Telework, light singing, games | Piano, flute, serious vocal recording | Drums, live piano, commercial studios |
| Air Conditioning | Many products cannot be attached | Air conditioner can be installed | Can be installed freely |
| Moving/Removal | Easy (DIY possible) | Professional contractors can relocate | Not possible (becomes demolition) |
1. Simple Assembly Type (For light users)#
Represented by “Danbocchi” and “OTODASU”, these are booths made of lightweight materials (plastic, cardboard, or sound-absorbing boards).
- Merits: Cheap (around $1,000), can be assembled by yourself, lightweight so no floor reinforcement required.
- Demerits: Soundproof performance is low (speaking voice becomes a little smaller). Many products do not have air conditioners, and it becomes a sauna in summer, making long-term use difficult.
- Recommended for:
- Do not want telework conference voices to leak.
- Game commentary or light narration recording during the day.
- Do not want to damage the rental property at all and want to introduce it easily.
2. Unit Type (Standard)#
Represented by Yamaha “Avitecs” and Kawai “Nasal”, these are assembly-type soundproof rooms sold by instrument manufacturers. It corresponds to the image of “making a small room (box) inside a room”.
- Merits: Stable high soundproof performance (there is a performance guarantee). Air conditioner can be attached. Asset value remains, and it can be sold used or relocated (this is the biggest feature).
- Demerits: Even 1.5 tatami costs nearly $10,000. It gives a sense of pressure in the room.
- Recommended for:
- Want to practice upright piano or wind instruments (saxophone, etc.).
- Pro-oriented vocal recording, late-night singing stream.
- Possible to move in the future (living in a rental property).
3. Construction (Renovation) Type (For pros/permanent residents)#
This is a method of remodeling the room itself into a soundproof room by demolishing the walls, floors, and ceilings of the room and incorporating sound-absorbing and soundproofing materials.
- Merits: Highest soundproof performance (drums possible). Can use the width of the room without waste. Layout and design are free.
- Demerits: Very expensive ($30,000 -). The construction period is long. Once made, it cannot be moved (recommended for homeowners).
- Recommended for:
- Want to play drums or grand piano 24 hours a day.
- Want to build a commercial-level recording studio at home.
- Homeowner and no plans to move in the future.
Flowchart for How to Choose#
Which type is recommended for you?
Do you live in a rental property?
- Yes → Go to 2
- No (Homeowner) → Go to 3
(Rental) Can you afford a budget of $5,000?
- Yes → Unit Type (including used Yamaha/Kawai)
- No → Simple Assembly Type (but instruments/late-night use might be tough)
(Homeowner) Do you want to play drums?
- Yes → Soundproof Construction only (if unit, special high insulation type is required)
- No → Unit Type if there is a possibility of returning the room to its original state in the future, Soundproof Construction if it will be a music room for a lifetime
Summary#
- For the time being, if cheap is “Simple Assembly”. However, compromise is required for heat and performance.
- If you want to play instruments/singing properly is “Unit Type”. A well-balanced choice that can also be sold.
- If you want ultimate performance is “Soundproof Construction”. A lifetime music room is available.
Please make a choice without regret according to your application and lifestyle.
→ Related: Soundproof Room Price Market | Average Price for 0.5 Tatami to 4.5 Tatami → Back to Soundproof Room Basics Map (Top)