Small Control Room Construction: Advice on mix position, bass traps, diffusers, etc.

[Daedalus77]

Hello, all—

The independent school where I work (my day job) is remodeling an existing one-floor building into a multi-purpose arts space that includes a large ensemble room (which will also function as studio live room) and adjacent control room. The control room space is quite small. The objective is to make the space as ideal as possible, acoustically, given a fairly limited budget, and the fact that the room, itself, is already "framed."

(Construction is underway, and I've just seen the plans for the first time and walked through and observed the initial construction of the walls. The basic dimensions and structure are set, so there's no room to alter the architect's basic plans.)

What is still up for (some) modification is the control room's interior arrangement. The current plans, as you can see from the attachment, prescribe a mix-position facing the room's long wall (and the window to the live room), as well as some odd counters which, I've been assured, are not set in stone.

My sense is that the mix position should face the south (short) wall, with the window to the engineer's right. (That would place the window right at the first reflection point, I believe, but my sense is that's the "lesser" of evils?) Of course, the bass traps, diffusors, and other room treatments should change, as well, me thinks.

HVAC and power and such have been handled well, from what I've seen from the plans.

So: Any advice on how to set up the room, as it exists? Again, the essential "frame" of the space is set; I'm seeking advice on how to make it a viable control room, even though it's so small.

FYI: A PT|HD 2 Accel rig and a bunch of quality outboard are going in the room. (And, most likely, a pair of Focal Solos, unless you all think the room's not too large for the Twins.)

Any advice appreciated, as always.

Thanks.

[avare]

There are so many things wrong, all I can write is:

good studio building is 90% design and 10% construction.

Regretfully,
Andre

[Daedalus77]

Well, gee. Thanks. That's helpful.

You really can't offer anything of use?

[avare]

Originally Posted by Daedalus77

Well, gee. Thanks. That's helpful.

You really can't offer anything of use?

First of all you cross posted over at last two websites. I have given advice on the other website that I am aware of.

If you don't like my tone, my professional tone is $200/hr. How is your pocket book?

Andre

[Daedalus77]

I posted on only two forums.
I hadn't seen your second post on the other site when I posted the above comments.
Thank for your help on the other site.

[Ethan Winer]

Originally Posted by Daedalus77

What is still up for (some) modification is the control room's interior arrangement.

Since you emailed me this information too, it's not clear to me if you're looking for a professional solution or free forum advice.

My best free advice is:

* Set up facing the short wall on the right.

* Get as close to that wall as possible so the window is behind the reflection point.

* Plan on as much bass trapping as possible, and of course absorption at the side-wall and ceiling reflection points.

--Ethan