Starting VTuber activities but worried about voice concerns with family and neighbors? Many share this worry.
This article compiles soundproofing basics specifically for VTuber activities. From selecting soundproofing levels based on voice volume to equipment placement tips, explained accessibly for beginners.
What Soundproofing Level Do VTubers Need?#
First, understand necessary soundproofing performance for VTuber activities.
Required Soundproofing by Streaming Style#
VTuber necessary soundproofing varies significantly by streaming style.
①Quiet Streaming (D-40~45)
- Chatting, drawing streams
- Late-night whisper streams
- ASMR (ambient sound emphasis)
- Reading, narration
This type: Simple soundproofing measures sufficient.
②Normal Volume Streaming (D-45~50)
- Standard game streaming
- Singing streams (low-medium volume)
- General talk streams
- Collaboration streams
Most common type. Unit soundproof room consideration level.
③High-Energy Streaming (D-55~60)
- Competitive game streaming (excited shouting)
- Full-volume singing streams
- Highly reactive streams
- Horror game reactions
Requires serious soundproofing investment.
④Professional/Studio Quality (D-60+)
- Professional music content
- Premium production values
- Commercial recording quality
- Corporate VTuber operations
Character Voice Type and Soundproofing Needs#
High-Pitched Characters#
Characteristics:
- Cute, energetic voices
- Often louder than normal speech
- High frequencies penetrate walls easily
Required Soundproofing: D-50~55
Considerations:
- High frequencies challenging to block
- Extra acoustic treatment helpful
- Neighbor tolerance lower for high-pitched sounds
Low-Pitched Characters#
Characteristics:
- Cool, mature voices
- Generally quieter delivery
- Low frequencies leak differently (vibration)
Required Soundproofing: D-45~50
Considerations:
- Low frequencies travel through structures
- Vibration isolation important
- Generally better neighbor tolerance
Shouting/Energetic Characters#
Characteristics:
- Very expressive
- Frequent shouting
- High emotion expression
Required Soundproofing: D-55~60+
Considerations:
- Highest soundproofing needs
- Time restrictions may apply even with good soundproofing
- Consider character modification if housing inadequate
Equipment Selection for VTubers#
Microphone Choices#
Dynamic Microphones:
- Price: 10,000-40,000 yen
- Pickup pattern: Narrow (less ambient noise)
- Best for: Noisy environments, energetic delivery
- Examples: Shure SM58, Audio-Technica ATR2100x
Condenser Microphones:
- Price: 15,000-100,000+ yen
- Pickup pattern: Wide (captures detail)
- Best for: Quiet environments, quality priority
- Examples: Audio-Technica AT2020, Blue Yeti
Recommendation for VTubers:
- Start with dynamic if soundproofing uncertain
- Upgrade to condenser once soundproofing verified
- Consider USB models for simplicity
Audio Interface#
Entry Level:
- Behringer U-Phoria: ~5,000 yen
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo: ~15,000 yen
- Adequate for beginners
Professional:
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: ~20,000 yen
- MOTU M2: ~30,000 yen
- Better quality, more features
Monitoring#
Headphones:
- Closed-back essential (prevents audio bleed)
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Price: 10,000-40,000 yen
- Examples: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sony MDR-7506
Room Layout Optimization#
Compact Setup (1 Tatami or Booth)#
Essential Items:
- Compact desk
- Single monitor
- Microphone on boom arm
- Minimal decorations
- Wall-mounted storage
Space-Saving Tips:
- Vertical monitor orientation
- Under-desk cable management
- Minimal peripheral count
- Multi-function equipment
Standard Setup (1.5-2 Tatami)#
Equipment:
- Standard desk
- Dual monitors
- Microphone + boom arm
- Lighting setup
- Equipment rack/shelf
Layout Tips:
- Desk against longest wall
- Equipment rack beside desk
- Lighting: Ring light or panel lights
- Background: Green screen or decorated wall
Professional Setup (2+ Tatami)#
Full Production Environment:
- L-shaped desk or multiple desks
- 3+ monitors
- Professional audio gear
- Multiple camera angles
- Complete lighting system
- Props and background sets
Soundproof Booth vs. Room Selection for VTubers#
Simple Booth (60,000-300,000 yen)#
Pros:
- Affordable entry
- Quick setup
- Rental-friendly
- Portable
Cons:
- Cramped (1-person only)
- Limited equipment space
- Ventilation challenges
- Not 24-hour comfortable
Best For: Part-time VTubers, testing before major investment
Unit Soundproof Room (800,000-2,000,000 yen)#
Pros:
- Comfortable space
- Excellent soundproofing
- Proper climate control
- Professional appearance potential
Cons:
- High cost
- Installation requirements
- Relocation challenges
- Landlord approval needed
Best For: Full-time VTubers, serious long-term commitment
Soundproof Rental (100,000-250,000 yen/month)#
Pros:
- No large initial investment
- Immediate availability
- Professional specifications
- Maintenance included
Cons:
- Ongoing monthly expense
- Location limitations
- Lease commitments
- Limited availability
Best For: Professional VTubers with stable income
Common VTuber Soundproofing Mistakes#
Mistake 1: Over-Specifying Soundproofing#
Problem: D-70 overkill for talk streams Solution: Match actual needs (D-50 often sufficient)
Mistake 2: Ignoring Acoustic Treatment#
Problem: Soundproof but echoey audio Solution: Budget for acoustic panels from start
Mistake 3: Inadequate Ventilation Planning#
Problem: 6-hour streams become unbearable Solution: Climate control essential for long sessions
Mistake 4: Forgetting Equipment Noise#
Problem: Mic picks up PC fans, AC, peripherals Solution: Quiet equipment selection, strategic placement
Budget Recommendations by VTuber Stage#
Hobbyist VTuber (Starting Out)#
Budget: ~100,000 yen
- DIY acoustic foam: 30,000 yen
- Silent keyboard/mouse: 25,000 yen
- Decent mic: 20,000 yen
- Software: Free
- Remaining: Lighting, minor items
Expected Environment: Acceptable for evening streams, neighbor-friendly hours
Part-Time VTuber (Growing Channel)#
Budget: ~500,000 yen
- Simple vocal booth: 300,000 yen
- Quality microphone: 40,000 yen
- Audio interface: 25,000 yen
- Acoustic treatment: 50,000 yen
- Peripherals: 85,000 yen
Expected Environment: Comfortable for regular schedule, some time restrictions
Full-Time VTuber (Professional)#
Budget: ~2,000,000 yen
- Soundproof room unit: 1,500,000 yen
- Professional audio gear: 200,000 yen
- Complete setup: 300,000 yen
Expected Environment: 24-hour streaming capability, professional quality
Conclusion#
VTuber soundproofing varies by:
- Character voice type and volume
- Streaming schedule intensity
- Budget reality
- Living situation constraints
- Professional vs. hobby distinction
Quick Reference#
Minimum for Casual: D-4045 (DIY + quiet equipment)
Standard for Regular: D-5055 (Vocal booth or comprehensive DIY)
Professional: D-55~65+ (Soundproof room unit or rental)
Start affordable, upgrade as channel grows and income justifies investment. Many successful VTubers began with minimal soundproofing, improving gradually.
Focus on content quality and audience engagement first—soundproofing enables but doesn’t replace compelling content. Invest wisely for sustainable VTuber activities.