re: Audiophile/Vinyl Thread - Post Pics, Advice, Questions, Setups, etc.

Howdy folks, I’m remodeling a mid century modern home in Colorado. It’s on a hill and is one story with a walkout basement. The entire front on top and bottom is all glass sliders with great views.

I’ve carved out space for a music room/lounge downstairs and I originally told the architects I wanted to ditch the windows/sliders to make the room a complete sound proofed private bunker. But, when I stand in that room now and see the views I wonder if it’s a mistake. So my question to you more experienced audiophiles is… glass or no glass? Sound quality is obviously important but so is soundproofing and privacy. I’m sure I could do triple paned glass with thick curtains but I’d still be losing a sense of complete privacy and room to store more records, art, etc. And every other room has great views too.

Any advice on the glass/no glass or tips for a music room buildout would be greatly appreciated!


Current listen:

quote:

---

I’ve carved out space for a music room/lounge downstairs and I originally told the architects I wanted to ditch the windows/sliders to make the room a complete sound proofed private bunker. But, when I stand in that room now and see the views I wonder if it’s a mistake. So my question to you more experienced audiophiles is… glass or no glass? Sound quality is obviously important but so is soundproofing and privacy. I’m sure I could do triple paned glass with thick curtains but I’d still be losing a sense of complete privacy and room to store more records, art, etc. And every other room has great views too.

---

Acoustically reflective surfaces near speakers are generally not good if you care about stereo imaging and even frequency response. Especially if on the sides at the "first reflection point", they'll create strong delayed reflections that smear the sound. In your situation it's also asymmetrical, which is going to create more imbalance. If you must keep the glass wall, keep the speakers away from it or mitigate by covering as you suggested.

Here's a page on first (or early) reflection points.

quote:

---

Any advice on the glass/no glass or tips for a music room buildout would be greatly appreciated!

---

Obviously glass is not great for acoustics, but no way I would ruin the views. Just get thick curtains and it won’t be an issue.

Orquesta Akokan - Caracoles

Tito Puente y Celia Cruz - Alma Con Alma

Waylon Jennings - The Taker/Tulsa (VMP)

Hervir Nichols Trío (Tone Poet)

I listened to “Tommy” (CD) in its entirety last week for the first time in many years...it is fantastic beginning to end.