Listening Room Dimensions... I'm building one and need your help


Sounds simple but I'm having a hard time coming up with most 'ideal' dimensions for this dual -purpose room that I'm building this year (hopefully).  



Purpose #1:
listening room for 2-ch hi-fi 
I have BIG speakers- several pairs 
*ideal is approx 25'x40'x12'
*want to sit 6-10 people in prime listening area 

Purpose #2: (other side of the room)
band rehearsal area (loud guitars, drums, keys, PA system, lots of 
*ideal is...bigger the better 

- I've read really good threads about general guidelines especially from Doctor Fine- hope he jumps in...
- I know the Cardas, and other rule ratios. But this room is a combination room so I'm not sure how much that changes anything 
- I know I'll probably have to use quite a bit of sound treatment 


My first inclination before research was 30' x 50' x 11'. 

What dimensions would you recommend and why??



ramoneo14

Showing 3 responses by bdp24

True @artemus_5, the ratio is not of Cardas' invention, merely his "re-discovery". He uses it in the construction of his cables too, the relative sizes of the various gauge strands of wire he combines.

As you know, the Cardas Golden Ratio H/W/L ration is 1.0 x 1.6 x 2.6 (say, 10' x 16' x 26'). Gordon Holt went by the older 1.0 x 1.6 x 2.3. Or equal multiples of that.

Whatever the size you decide on, seriously consider constructing the room using the ASC isolation materials, including the fantastic Wall Damp constrained layer damping between two layers of sheet rock. No wall or ceiling resonance! And a poured concrete floor, if possible.

 

Give Art Noxon at ASC a call. He'll work with you all the way through the build. I've been in a room constructed using his wall products (that of Audiogoner folkfreak), and it was incredible.