How To Build A Soundproof Baffle Box
May 09, 2022What Is A Baffle Box
A baffle box is a way to slow the air as it enters your studio and a device that will reduce sound from entering your studio. It works by having air open up into a 1 foot by 1 foot duct that then does several 90 degree turns with insulation along the walls.
The air slows down by being introduced to a larger duct and therefore does not make as much noise. The insulation in the baffle box also dampens the hair as it passes through the box. This also dampens sound waves that may enter the box through the ducting entering the box.
How Do You Build A Baffle Box?
The concept is somewhat simple yet the exact dimensions are important to keep the air moving slow. My baffle box has a 1 foot by 1 foot opening through it with five 90 degree turns to reduce sound from traveling through the box. Below is a diagram of the design for my baffle box. This was designed by Rod Gervais the author of Home Recording Studio: Build It Like The Pros.
As you can see the box is made using 3/4" plywood and special duct acoustic insulation. The overall design is fairly straightforward and can be modified to fit your specific needs. As long as you do 4-5 turns and keep the airway large around 1 foot by 1 foot or even larger then you will get enough air and you won't hear the air traveling into your room.
How To Install The Baffle Box
The baffle box should be attached to the outside of your studio wall or above your studio ceiling. You can drill the baffle box into the existing wall studs to attach it to the wall. Once the baffle box is installed you should cover it and the rest of the wall with two layers of 5/8" drywall with Green Glue in the middle. This will ensure that your baffle box and wall our soundproof adjacent to your studio. It is truly incredible how well this baffle box design works. I don't hear any noise traveling through the box and I don't hear any air, but can still feel the air blowing into the room.
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