SOUND ON SOUND

[JRocker]

Hi,

I am setting up a proper tracking studio in my home, (including a makeshift vocal booth ie: a corner of the room dedicated to recording vocals only) where I will record only acoustic and electric guitars and vocals. I have all the acoustic foam and reflection filters sorted, but the floor is carpeted and there's a window (looking outside) as well (when i record I usually pop up a acoustic foam to cover the window to prevent any reflection spill). I've heard people say that floors should always be wooden for recording, yet I've recorded with carpet rooms before and achieved great tones, due to the fact I do take care with mic positioning etc. Whats the view on carpet versus wooden floors? I know for mixing, it would be different as it would not give much of an accurate representation of a mix, but for tracking I find it is a different matter.

[Wonks]

Some instruments, like acoustic guitars, benefit from a reflective floor. The easiest way to do it is to have a fairly large sheet of hardboard or MDF that you can lay down when you need it. Then you can have the benefits of both worlds.

[Mixedup]

Depends on the room... including how high and how reflective the ceiling. I tend to prefer a more reflective floor and absorbent ceiling... but as has been said, you can put board down when required... Another good option is a rug instead of a carpet -- that way you can roll it back!

[Humble Bee]

I would go for a nice wooden floor and add a nice rug when needed. It will be much nicer from a hygienic point of view.

[JRocker]

Would adding the rug on top of the carpet do the job?

[Humble Bee]

A sickle leaf, vine scroll Kerman would be ideal... :thumbup:

[Hugh Robjohns]

My preference is for a wooden floor and if you have a large, heavy, removable rug you can have the best of both worlds...

But equally, you can use a sheet of MDF on a carpeted floor to provide a similar level of versatility.

H

[n o i s e f l e ur]

Until you try and roll up the sheet of MDF that is! :D

[JRocker]

I have usually gone for a dry carpeted room for vocals and a more live, wet room with space for guitars in my approach to recording.