An experiment worked; how to proceed?


A post here a while back suggested placing blankets or quilts on the floor around, between, in front of and behind the speakers. Today I did just that and am pleased with the results, particularly with orchestral music. The sound stage imaging and bass are improved, and the shrillness I sometimes experience with violins and woodwinds is gone.

Although I'm fortunate enough to have a more-or-less dedicated listening room, for practical and domestic tranquility reasons this obviously can't be a long-term solution. The room is about 12.5' x 15' with a thin oriental rug on the floor, gypboard walls, 6' of (curtained) glass door along one wall, bookshelves against the front and back walls, and a 9'-12' asymmetrically vaulted ceiling.

This is my first foray in "room treatment." I'd appreciate any suggestions or ideas on how to make these benefits permanent. I wouldn't mind using bass traps and the like but don't have a lot of free wall space to devote to these.
john_g

Showing 1 response by jadedavid

One of the first things to do is to address the first reflection points on the walls. Usually absorbing type panels are used. I.E. Fiberglass, foam or hanging throw rugs etc.
After that, perhaps trying a more "plush" and larger carpet in place of your existing oriental rug. 
Additional throw rugs could be tried in various positions.
Another area to consider is the ceiling. Quite often gains can be realized by using hanging "clouds".
Using smartphone acoustical apps or a Sound pressure level meter would be very helpful in understanding what is going on in the room. 
Many good videos on their usage on Utube.
It is a challenge and a journey to get the room to behave.