RockScience Music

Author: Bob Damiano

  • Building Acoustic Panels:

    Building Acoustic Panels:

    Transforming Soundscapes with Style and Simplicity

    Whether you’re a recording artist, a podcaster, or simply someone who enjoys a well-tuned space, the acoustic qualities of a room can make a world of difference. Reverb and reflections can muddy the sound, creating a less-than-ideal environment for critical listening or casual enjoyment. A very reverberant living or dining space can make it difficult to understand casual conversation.

    Building your own acoustic panels is a straightforward way to reduce reverb and reflections, while also allowing you to add a personal aesthetic touch. In this blog, we’ll explore the process of building acoustic panels, the science behind them, and how they differ from soundproofing. Plus, we’ll talk about how to incorporate artistic flair into your designs.

    Understanding the Basics: Acoustic Treatment vs. Soundproofing

    Before diving into the details of building acoustic panels, it’s essential to clarify the difference between acoustic treatment and soundproofing. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to entirely different goals in managing sound.

    • Acoustic Treatment: This is all about managing sound within a space. Acoustic panels reduce reflections and control the reverb time in a room, creating a cleaner and more balanced sound. They don’t prevent sound from escaping the room or block external noise from entering.
    • Soundproofing: Soundproofing focuses on reducing sound transmission through walls, floors, ceilings, and other boundaries of the space. This involves increasing the transmission loss of the room’s boundaries using dense materials, isolation techniques, and airtight construction.

    While acoustic panels enhance the sound quality inside a room, soundproofing is about isolating the room from the outside world. In this blog, we’ll focus solely on acoustic treatment.

    acoustic panel
    Panels in the Rockscience Mix Room

    Why Acoustic Panels?

    In any enclosed space, sound waves bounce off walls, ceilings, and floors, creating reflections that interfere with the direct sound you want to hear. These reflections contribute to reverberation, a lingering sound that can make speech unintelligible, music unclear, and recordings messy. The reverb time of a space is specified by RT60. This is the time it takes for sound to decay 60dB. In a modern studio mixing room, the broadband RT60 might be somewhere between 200 and 500 milliseconds. A small room with hard surfaces might get closer to 1200. A gymnasium, 5000.

    Can it be Too Dry?

    In my opinion, yes. Tastes ebb and flow on this topic but finding the optimum reverberation time, is somewhat a personal choice. The trend these days is extremely dead acoustics but despite what you may read on facebook, there are no hard and fast rules to this. In my own mixing room, I have an RT60 of about 350-400mS and I really don’t like it any deader than that.

    Applications for Acoustic Panels

    • Recording studios: To create a controlled environment for mixing and recording.
    • Home theaters: For immersive sound without distracting reflections.
    • Commercial Office / Restaurant space: To minimize noise distractions and improve speech clarity.
    • Living spaces: To create a more pleasant auditory experience.

    Materials and Design

    room treatment
    A framed panel in progress. One layer of Rockwool with a layer of 703 to come
    acoustic panel
    Finished Framed panel

    One of the simplest and most effective designs for acoustic panels consists of the following components:

    1. Backing: I use masonite or pegboard as a backing material. It provides structural support and ensures the panel is easy to hang or mount on walls.
    2. Core Absorptive Material: The heart of the panel is the absorptive material. Common choices include:
      • Rockwool: Dense, mineral-based insulation material with excellent sound absorption properties.
      • Owens Corning 703: A fiberglass board widely used in professional acoustic treatments.
      • Combination: A slightly more broadband absorber may be had by combining layers of both.
    3. Fabric Covering: Fabric stretched over the panel gives it a finished appearance while allowing sound waves to pass through to the absorptive material. I prefer using thin canvas cloth, which provides a good balance between sound permeability and durability. As an aesthetic twist, I have my photography or other artwork printed directly on the fabric.
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    Step-by-Step Guide to Building Acoustic Panels

    acoustic panel
    A fabric-wrapped panel in the works.

    Here’s how to build your own acoustic panels:

    1. Gather Your Materials

    • Masonite or pegboard backing (cut to your desired panel size, e.g., 2’ x 4’).
    • Rockwool, Owens Corning 703, or similar material.
    • Thin canvas fabric (plain or printed with your artwork).
    • Staple Gun
    • Wood strips (optional, for framing).
    • A mounting screw or anchor (depending on the wall surface)

    2. Cut and Assemble the Frame

    If you’d like your panel to have a sturdy frame, you can build a simple rectangular frame using wood strips. This frame will house the absorptive material and provide additional rigidity. I normally skip the frame and instead do a smooth wrap-around of the material.

    4. Insert the Absorptive Material

    Cut the rockwool or fiberglass to fit snugly within the frame or directly on the backing. Ensure the material covers the entire surface for consistent absorption. If you are going frameless, make sure the edges are nice and clean so the fabric wraps nicely with no lumps or dips.

    5. Stretch and Attach the Fabric

    Lay the fabric over the front of the panel, ensuring it’s large enough to wrap around the edges. Pull the fabric tight and secure it to the back of the panel using a staple gun. If you’re using printed fabric, take care to align the artwork properly for a clean, professional look.

    For stapling into Masonite, you need a pretty hefty staple gun. Press the gun down very firmly when you fire it, else it will “hop” up off the hard masonite.

    6. Mounting

    For wall mountings, I keep it very simple and use a single screw centered about 1 inch down from the top. Mount that screw into the wall with the head sticking out about 3/4 an inch. Use anchors or mount into a stud as appropriate. I drill a oversized hole in the Masonite and the screw head simply stick into that hole. If you’ve centered it will, the panel will hang vertically.

    Aesthetic Considerations: Adding a Personal Touch

    One of the most exciting aspects of building acoustic panels is the ability to customize their appearance. While plain fabric works perfectly well, I take it a step further by printing my photography or artwork on thin canvas fabric. This transforms the panels from functional tools into pieces of art that complement the room’s décor. There are plenty of online services that will print artwork on lightweight canvas.

    Three Small panels ready to hang
    A two-panel set for a living room
    Two panel set for an apartment
    acoustic panel
    Panels at Rockscience
    Three panel set for a condo

    I made this one for low on the wall behind my studio desk where all the messy wires are. I borrowed the iconic photo on the rear of the Who’s Next album.

    The key to a polished result is selecting high-quality fabric that allows sound to pass through while showcasing the printed design vividly. I’ve had great luck with 9oz canvas cloth available at most fabric printing services.

    Applications Beyond Studios

    While acoustic panels are essential for recording studios, their benefits extend to a variety of other settings:

    • Living Rooms: Panels can help reduce the “lively” sound often found in rooms with hard surfaces like tile or wood floors.
    • Home Offices: If you work remotely or participate in virtual meetings, acoustic panels can help reduce echo and improve speech clarity for both you and your listeners.
    • Restaurants and Cafes: Acoustic panels can help create a more comfortable environment for patrons by reducing noise levels.
    • Classrooms: Panels can improve focus and reduce auditory distractions for students.

    Examples in Action

    I’ve installed panels in my own recording studio and in living spaces, and the results have been transformative. In the studio, the panels create a controlled soundscape that’s perfect for mixing and recording. In living spaces, they subtly improve the acoustic environment without drawing attention to themselves—unless, of course, someone admires the printed artwork.

    Tips for Success

    1. Start Small: If you’re new to DIY projects, begin with one or two panels to refine your technique before tackling a larger batch.
    2. Choose Materials Wisely: The absorptive material and fabric covering are critical to the panel’s performance and appearance, so invest in high-quality options.
    3. Plan Your Placement: Panels are most effective when placed at reflection points, so take the time to analyze your room’s acoustics.
    4. Mix Function and Aesthetics: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics and designs to create panels that look as good as they sound.

    Final Thoughts

    Building your own acoustic panels is a rewarding project that combines functionality with creativity. By reducing reflections and reverb, you can dramatically improve the sound quality of any space. And with the option to customize the panels with your own artwork, you can make them a true reflection of your style. Whether you’re outfitting a professional studio or simply creating a better environment for listening to music, acoustic panels are an investment in both sound and aesthetics.

  • Focal Solo6 Be Studio Monitors: A Timeless Contender

    Focal Solo6 Be Studio Monitors: A Timeless Contender

    For nearly two decades, the Focal Solo6 Be studio monitors have remained a staple in professional and project studios alike. When they first hit the market, they were instantly recognizable, perched on the console bridge in nearly every Mix Magazine cover shot. Their reputation for accuracy, clarity, and durability made them a must-have for engineers and producers looking for reliable nearfields that could translate mixes with confidence.

    Today, the Solo6 Be is still a serious contender in the world of studio monitoring, offering exceptional performance at prices that are now surprisingly reasonable on the used market. At my studio, Rockscience, we’ve relied on a pair of these monitors for the past 20 years, and despite their age, they continue to impress. In the last three years, we’ve replaced the amplifiers in both units, but thanks to the availability of used parts and single replacement monitors, keeping them in top shape has been a straightforward process.

    First Impressions and Build Quality

    When I first set up the Focal Solo6 Be monitors in my studio, one thing became immediately apparent: I was mixing at lower volumes than ever before. The level of detail and resolution these monitors provided at reduced listening levels was nothing short of remarkable. Unlike other monitors that seem to lose clarity and articulation when played softly, the Solo6 Be maintains a full spectrum of frequencies with an incredible sense of balance. This means you don’t have to crank them up to make critical mix decisions, reducing ear fatigue during long sessions.

    That said, these monitors love to be loud too. Push them, and they deliver powerful, uncolored, and dynamic sound with surprising authority for a speaker of their size. Their 6.5” “W” composite sandwich cone woofer and Focal’s signature Beryllium inverted-dome tweeter produce an incredibly detailed and balanced response across the spectrum, ensuring that your mixes translate well to other systems.

    The build quality of the Solo6 Be is as solid as it gets. The cabinets are dense and well-damped, eliminating unwanted resonances. The front-firing bass port keeps the low-end tight and focused, even when placed near walls or in smaller rooms. These monitors were built to last, and our pair has stood the test of time without any structural issues.

    Sound Performance and Mixing Experience

    Low-End Clarity

    One of the most impressive aspects of the Solo6 Be is its low-frequency accuracy. Unlike many nearfields that either hype or suppress the bass, the Solo6 Be delivers an incredibly natural and defined low-end. The tight, controlled bass makes it easy to judge low-end balance in a mix without needing a subwoofer. You won’t get the kind of extended low-frequency response that larger three-way systems or dedicated sub setups offer, but for most mixing and tracking applications, these monitors provide all the low-end clarity you need.

    Midrange Precision

    The midrange is where the Solo6 Be truly shines. Vocals, guitars, synths, and percussive elements come through with exceptional detail and presence. If there’s any buildup in the mids, you’ll hear it immediately. This precision makes it easy to dial in EQ and compression decisions with confidence. If your mix sounds good on these, it’ll sound good just about anywhere.

    High-End Detail

    Thanks to the Beryllium tweeter, the high frequencies on the Solo6 Be are crisp, open, and highly detailed, without ever sounding harsh or fatiguing. Many tweeters in studio monitors can introduce artificial brightness that may mislead your mixing decisions, but the Solo6 Be delivers a natural top-end that allows you to hear subtle reverb tails, transient details, and harmonic textures with clarity.

    Stereo Imaging and Depth

    The stereo imaging on these monitors is outstanding. The soundstage is wide, deep, and precise, allowing you to place instruments in a mix with pinpoint accuracy. Panning decisions are effortless, and the sense of front-to-back depth makes it easy to judge reverb and spatial effects. The transient response is incredibly fast, which helps reveal subtle dynamics and micro-details that can often be missed on less revealing speakers.

    Reliability and Longevity

    As mentioned earlier, our pair of Solo6 Be monitors at Rockscience has been in service for 20 years, and they’re still going strong. The only major maintenance we’ve had to perform was replacing the amplifiers in both units within the past three years. Thankfully, finding replacement parts was relatively simple due to the availability of used units on the market. If you ever experience a driver or amplifier failure, picking up a single used monitor for spare parts is an affordable and effective solution.

    Rear Panel

    This kind of longevity is a testament to Focal’s commitment to quality and engineering. Many monitors from the same era have long since fallen out of favor due to aging components or outdated designs, but the Solo6 Be remains a respected and relevant choice.

    The Used Market: A Hidden Gem

    One of the biggest advantages of the Solo6 Be today is its affordable presence on the used market. Given their durability and repairability, picking up a used pair can be an incredible value. Many high-end studio monitors depreciate significantly over time, and while newer models like the Focal Shape series or the Trio6 Be have introduced modern innovations, the Solo6 Be still holds its own against most competitors.

    If you’re considering a pair, here are a few tips for buying used:

    1. Test both monitors together – Ensure there are no major tonal imbalances between the two speakers.
    2. Listen for amp noise – Some aging units may develop amplifier hiss or hum, which could indicate worn components.
    3. Inspect the tweeters and woofers – Check for damage, as replacement drivers can be costly.
    4. Confirm amplifier functionality – If one monitor has a faulty amp, make sure you can source a replacement.
    5. Look for single-unit deals – If you already own a pair and need spare parts, picking up a single used monitor is a cost-effective way to keep them running for years.

    Final Thoughts: Still a Top Choice

    The Focal Solo6 Be has proven itself to be one of the most reliable, detailed, and versatile nearfield monitors ever produced. Two decades after their debut, they continue to be a go-to choice for engineers and producers who demand clarity, precision, and longevity in their monitoring setup.

    At Rockscience, our Solo6 Be monitors have been essential tools in countless projects, and we have no plans to replace them anytime soon. Whether you’re buying them new (if you can find them) or picking up a well-maintained used pair, you’ll be investing in a piece of monitoring history that still competes with some of the best modern options available today.

    If you’re looking for monitors that have truly stood the test of time, the Focal Solo6 Be should absolutely be on your radar.

  • PreSonus FaderPort 16 Review: Compact, Versatile, and Powerful

    If you’re in the market for a compact yet powerful control surface, the PreSonus FaderPort 16 is a serious contender. Designed to give hands-on control over your DAW, this motorized fader controller provides an impressive balance of functionality and footprint, making it an excellent choice for home studios and professional setups alike. It supports multiple protocols, delivers smooth and quiet fader action, and features a solid, well-built button layout that enhances workflow efficiency. Whether you’re using Pro Tools in HUI mode or Cakewalk/SONAR in Mackie mode, the FaderPort 16 integrates seamlessly, providing an intuitive and responsive experience.

    Design & Build Quality

    At first glance, the FaderPort 16 looks sleek and professional, with a clean layout that maximizes its compact footprint. Despite offering 16 touch-sensitive, motorized faders, it remains relatively small compared to larger control surfaces, making it ideal for those who need a lot of tactile control without dedicating too much desk space.

    The build quality is impressive. The buttons feel solid and responsive, with a satisfying tactile click that assures you of every press. This is particularly important in fast-paced mixing environments where accidental double presses or mushy buttons can be frustrating. The faders move quietly and smoothly, which is a huge plus compared to some competing surfaces that tend to generate distracting motor noise.

    Multi-Protocol Support: A Big Win for Compatibility

    One of the standout features of the FaderPort 16 is its multi-protocol support, allowing it to work seamlessly with various DAWs. It operates in:

    • Native PreSonus Mode (ideal for Studio One users, offering the deepest integration)
    • Mackie Control Mode (compatible with DAWs like Cakewalk/SONAR, Cubase, and Logic Pro)
    • HUI Mode (for Pro Tools and other HUI-compatible DAWs)

    This level of flexibility makes it an attractive option for producers and engineers working across multiple DAWs.

    Performance & Functionality

    Smooth & Quiet Motorized Faders

    The 16 motorized faders are touch-sensitive, ensuring precise control over your mix. Unlike some other control surfaces that can be noisy when adjusting automation or switching banks, the FaderPort 16’s faders operate very quietly. This is a major advantage, especially in studio environments where minimal noise is crucial.

    Each fader also provides 100mm of travel, allowing for fine-tuned adjustments that feel much more natural than using a mouse. The faders respond quickly to automation playback, keeping up with even the most intricate mix moves.

    Positive, Solid Button Action

    Every button on the FaderPort 16 feels tactile and solid, offering positive feedback with every press. This is especially noticeable when using frequently accessed controls like solo, mute, and automation functions. Unlike some control surfaces where buttons can feel soft or unresponsive, the FaderPort 16 ensures that each press is deliberate and reliable.

    Seamless Integration with Pro Tools (HUI Mode)

    For Pro Tools users, the FaderPort 16 works efficiently in HUI mode. You get full control over track levels, panning, transport, and automation. While HUI doesn’t provide as deep an integration as PreSonus’ native mode with Studio One, it still makes a huge difference in workflow, especially when dealing with multiple tracks. Bank switching is smooth, and the faders follow automation data accurately.

    Excellent Performance in Cakewalk/SONAR (Mackie Mode)

    If you use Cakewalk or SONAR, the FaderPort 16 operates in Mackie Control mode, providing excellent hands-on control over mixing. The transport, navigation, and automation controls work flawlessly, making mixing much faster and more intuitive than relying solely on a mouse.

    Customization & Workflow Enhancements

    Beyond basic fader control, the FaderPort 16 provides a host of features that enhance workflow:

    • Dedicated Transport Controls: Play, stop, record, fast forward, and rewind at your fingertips.
    • Session Navigation: Quickly scroll through tracks and banks with intuitive navigation controls.
    • Automation Control: Easily toggle between read, write, latch, and touch automation modes.
    • User Assignable Buttons: Customize functions to suit your workflow.
    • Pan & Plugin Control: The pan knob allows quick adjustments, and in some DAWs, you can use it to tweak plugin parameters.

    These features make the FaderPort 16 more than just a fader controller—it’s a full-fledged mixing assistant.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros:

    ✔ Compact and well-designed—offers 16 motorized faders without taking up too much desk space.

    ✔ Smooth, quiet fader operation—virtually noiseless movement.

    ✔ Solid, tactile buttons—positive feedback and responsive action.

    ✔ Multi-DAW compatibility—works in PreSonus Native, Mackie Control, and HUI modes.

    ✔ Seamless integration with Pro Tools (HUI) and Cakewalk/SONAR (Mackie).

    ✔ Excellent automation control—touch-sensitive faders accurately follow automation.

    ✔ User-friendly interface—intuitive and easy to navigate.

    Cons:

    ❌ Small LCD scribble strips— this is the tradeoff of having 16 channels of control is such a small footprint.

    ❌ Some advanced functions are DAW-dependent (best integration is with Studio One).

    ❌ No motorized pan knobs—panning is controlled via a single encoder.

  • NAS in Your Audio or Video Studio

    NAS in Your Audio or Video Studio

    In the world of audio and video production, data is king. Whether you’re recording a podcast, editing a film, or producing music, the sheer volume of media files generated can be overwhelming. Managing, storing, and backing up these files efficiently is crucial to maintaining a smooth workflow and ensuring the safety of your valuable content. This is where a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device comes into play. In this blog post, we’ll explore the value of having a NAS in your audio or video studio, with a focus on the Synology brand and some of its competitors. We’ll also discuss the benefits of constant backup synchronization, using the NAS as a gateway server for file exchange, and some of the extra apps you can run on a NAS, such as surveillance with IP cameras.

    rockscience microphone mods

    What is a NAS?

    A NAS is a dedicated file storage device that connects to your network, allowing multiple users and devices to access and store data centrally. Unlike traditional external hard drives, a NAS is designed to be always on and accessible, making it an ideal solution for studios that need to manage large amounts of data and collaborate with team members or clients.

    Why a NAS is Essential for Audio and Video Studios

    Centralized Storage and Accessibility

    One of the primary benefits of a NAS is centralized storage. Instead of having files scattered across multiple external drives or computers, a NAS allows you to store all your media files in one place. This makes it easier to organize, search, and access your files, whether you’re working on a solo project or collaborating with a team.

    For example, at RockScience, our studio in Newport, RI, we use a Synology NAS in a redundant RAID configuration to ensure that all our audio and video files are stored securely and can be accessed quickly by anyone on our team. This centralized approach not only streamlines our workflow but also reduces the risk of data loss due to hardware failure.

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    The Synology DSM in the basement at RockScience next to a batter backup for it.

    Constant Backup Synchronization

    In the world of audio and video production, losing data can be catastrophic. A NAS provides a reliable solution for backing up your media files. Most NAS devices, including those from Synology, offer built-in backup software that allows you to schedule automatic backups of your files. This means that every time you save a project or record a new track, your data is automatically backed up to the NAS.

    Moreover, many NAS devices support RAID configurations, which provide redundancy by storing data across multiple drives. In the event of a drive failure, your data remains safe and accessible. At RockScience, we use a redundant RAID configuration on our Synology NAS to ensure that our media files are always protected.

    Gateway Server for File Exchange

    Collaboration is a key aspect of audio and video production, and a NAS can serve as a gateway server for exchanging files with other studios or clients. With a NAS, you can set up secure file-sharing links that allow external users to upload or download files directly to and from the NAS. This eliminates the need for cumbersome email attachments or third-party file-sharing services, which often have size limitations and security concerns.

    For instance, if you’re working on a film project and need to send raw footage to a post-production studio, you can simply upload the files to your NAS and share a secure link with the studio. They can then download the files at their convenience, without worrying about file size restrictions or data breaches.

    Part of our file system on the NAS at Rockscience

    Above is a look at part of the file system in the NAS at Rockscience. home/music-projects is a constant sync of everything musical that is generated from any DAW we use. There is a similar one for raw-media for photography and video. On the left, you can see some “-share” directories which are landing zones for other studios and users to transfer data in and out.

    Extra Apps and Features

    Beyond storage and backup, many NAS devices come with a range of extra apps and features that can enhance your studio’s capabilities. Synology, for example, offers a wide variety of apps through its DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system. These apps can turn your NAS into a multifunctional tool that goes beyond simple file storage.

    Surveillance with IP Cameras

    One of the standout features of Synology NAS devices is their ability to function as a surveillance system. With the Surveillance Station app, you can connect IP cameras to your NAS and monitor your studio remotely. This is particularly useful for studios that have expensive equipment and need to ensure the security of their premises.

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    Keeping an eye on the porch pirates with the NAS

    Surveillance Station allows you to record footage from multiple cameras, set up motion detection alerts, and even integrate with other security systems. This added layer of security can give you peace of mind, knowing that your studio is protected 24/7.

    Using another package – Cloud Sync, the surveillance images from cameras are continually sync’d to an Amazon S3 bucket where they are kept for 90 days.

    Media Server and Streaming

    Another useful app for audio and video studios is the Media Server app, which allows you to stream media files directly from your NAS to compatible devices. This is ideal for studios that need to review footage or listen to audio tracks on different devices, such as smart TVs, tablets, or smartphones.

    With the Media Server app, you can create a centralized media library that can be accessed by anyone in your studio. This eliminates the need to transfer files between devices, saving time and ensuring that everyone is working with the same version of a file.

    Virtual Machine Manager

    For studios that require advanced computing capabilities, Synology NAS devices also support virtual machines. With the Virtual Machine Manager app, you can run multiple operating systems on your NAS, allowing you to test software, run specialized applications, or even set up a virtualized environment for remote work.

    This flexibility is particularly valuable for studios that need to run resource-intensive applications or collaborate with remote team members. By virtualizing your workflow, you can maximize the efficiency of your NAS and reduce the need for additional hardware.

    Synology vs. Competitors

    While Synology is a popular choice for NAS devices, there are several other brands worth considering, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

    QNAP

    QNAP is one of Synology’s main competitors, offering a wide range of NAS devices that cater to both home and business users. QNAP NAS devices are known for their powerful hardware and extensive app ecosystem, which includes options for virtualization, surveillance, and multimedia streaming.

    One of the key advantages of QNAP is its support for Thunderbolt connectivity, which allows for faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional Ethernet connections. This can be a significant benefit for studios that work with large video files and need to transfer data quickly.

    Western Digital (WD)

    Western Digital is another well-known brand in the NAS market, offering devices under the My Cloud series. WD NAS devices are generally more affordable than Synology and QNAP, making them a good option for smaller studios or those on a budget.

    However, WD NAS devices tend to have fewer features and a less robust app ecosystem compared to Synology and QNAP. While they are suitable for basic storage and backup needs, they may not offer the same level of flexibility and functionality required by more advanced studios.

    Asustor

    Asustor is a lesser-known brand that offers a range of NAS devices with competitive pricing and features. Asustor NAS devices are known for their user-friendly interface and support for 4K video transcoding, making them a good choice for video production studios.

    While Asustor may not have the same level of brand recognition as Synology or QNAP, it offers a solid alternative for studios that need a reliable NAS with good performance and a range of features.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, a NAS is an invaluable tool for any audio or video studio, providing centralized storage, constant backup synchronization, and a gateway for file exchange. Synology, with its robust DSM operating system and extensive app ecosystem, is a top choice for studios looking for a versatile and reliable NAS solution. However, competitors like QNAP, Western Digital, and Asustor also offer compelling options, depending on your specific needs and budget.

    At RockScience, our Synology NAS in a redundant RAID configuration has become an integral part of our workflow, ensuring that our media files are always safe, accessible, and ready for collaboration. Whether you’re a small studio or a large production house, investing in a NAS can significantly enhance your productivity, security, and peace of mind.

    So, if you’re looking to take your studio to the next level, consider adding a NAS to your setup. It’s a decision that will pay dividends in the long run, allowing you to focus on what you do best—creating amazing audio and video content.

  • DIY Studio Desk

    DIY Studio Desk

    I had always wanted an Argosy-Like desk with angled racks right at the desktop level. I resisted because the dimensions and layout weren’t quite exactly what I wanted and well… the price. Occasionally I would consider doing a DIY studio desk, begin the design and get too busy to follow through. So I just stuck with my lame “office furniture” desk and external racks. After seeing others doing fantastic looking DIY desks, I decided to go for it.

    One decision that made things simpler, and cheaper was to construct it out of MDF instead of plywood. I would have never considered that until I saw some amazing results that others have gotten with MDF. In the end, I had a desk that I love. It has 16u of rack space above the desk and another 16u below.

    So here we go…

    Let’s start with the design
    The basic idea was to have two side wings and a table top between them. One uniqueness to my design which I’m really happy about is that the computer monitors sit on a separate bridge that is 2 inches (52mm) lower than the desk surface. This gives me a much more comfortable viewing angle and gets them more out of the sound field. That monitor bridge is the thing that actually sets the orientation of the side wings. It sits on angle iron on the side wings and is held in place with some pins that go through the bridge into the metal angle pieces.

    I decided to fully draw the whole thing in CAD. I used LibreCad which is a free open-source package. This let me tweak things and determine very accurate measurements for cutting the pieces. A link to the DFX file is here and free for anyone.

    Construction

    I don’t own a table saw and that was always one reason that I thought this might be out of my league. But for this project, you can do just fine with a straight edge and clamps and a good sharp blade on your circular saw. Working from my CAD drawing, I cut out the various pieces of MDF. I had them rough cut into manageable chunks at Home Depot (I also don’t own a truck and so that made getting them home a little easier)

    The cutting and sanding of the side wing pieces went pretty quick and easy. Next were the cross pieces, supports, bracketry, leveling pads and other hardware. This is where progress got pretty slow. In hindsight, I wish I would have spent more time at the computer up front designing the bracketry and leveling pad placement. It would have saved a lot of experimental time (and some ruined pieces) later on.

    The Desktop

    My plan from the start was for the desktop to be plywood or maybe even laminated hardwood. To prototype and test the layout and shape, I decided to make one out of MDF as a temp stand-in. Well, once I primed and painted it, I couldn’t see any good reason to replace it. My MDF tabletop surface is working perfectly. It is supported well enough that there are no sags or wobbles at all.

  • Fralin P90 Noiseless Review

    Fralin P90 Noiseless Review

    A Game Changer for P90 Lovers

    For guitarists who love the gritty, dynamic tone of a classic P90 but struggle with the infamous 60-cycle hum, the Fralin P90 Noiseless pickup is a game-changer. At Rock Science (rockscience.net), we put this pickup to the test in a detailed before-and-after audio comparison, measuring the actual noise reduction—and the results were staggering.

    🎸 Watch the Full Review & Sound Test Here:
    📺 Fralin P90 Noiseless Review & Installation

    How Much Noise Does the Fralin P90 Noiseless Eliminate?

    Using a Gibson Melody Maker as our test guitar, we recorded both the stock P90 pickup and the Fralin P90 Noiseless under identical conditions. The difference? Over 20dB of noise reduction—without sacrificing the legendary P90 tone.

    ✅ Crisp highs, punchy mids, and rich harmonic overtones
    ✅ Massive noise reduction (over 20dB less hum!)
    ✅ Authentic P90 growl—without the buzz

    If you’ve ever played a P90-equipped guitar in a high-gain or live setting, you know how frustrating hum can be. This upgrade preserves everything you love about the P90 sound while eliminating the noise issue.

    Inside the Video: Installation & Sound Test

    In the video, we walk through:
    🔧 Step-by-step installation – Swapping the stock pickup for the Fralin P90 Noiseless.
    🎚️ Recording setup – Ensuring an accurate, unbiased comparison.
    🎵 Before & after sound clips – Hear the difference yourself.

    With nearly 8,000 views and climbing, the video is helping guitarists make an informed choice about upgrading their P90 tone.

    Is the Fralin P90 Noiseless Worth It?

    For anyone looking to keep the soul of a P90 while solving its biggest flaw, the Fralin P90 Noiseless is an outstanding investment. It’s a must-have for recording, gigging, or high-gain playing, where noise can become an issue.

    Want to learn more about pro audio, custom gear, and studio recording? Visit rockscience.net for more in-depth reviews and recording insights.

  • The Mic and The Studio

    The Mic and The Studio

    How Custom Microphones Elevate Your Sound

    In the ever-evolving world of music production, artists and engineers are constantly searching for ways to capture the most authentic, rich, and detailed sound possible. While advancements in digital technology have transformed how we record and mix, one crucial factor remains unchanged: the importance of a great microphone. At Rock Science (rockscience.net), we specialize in crafting custom microphone rebuilds and mods that offer superior clarity, warmth, and character—tailored to the unique needs of recording professionals and musicians.

    Why Microphones Matter More Than Ever

    Whether you’re tracking vocals, recording acoustic instruments, or capturing the nuances of a drum kit, your microphone is the first step in shaping your sound. A high-quality mic can reveal textures, dynamics, and tonal qualities that lower-end models simply miss. While big-name studio microphones have set industry standards, custom microphones bring something truly special to the table: personalization, innovation, and sonic excellence.

    At Rock Science, we build handcrafted, custom-tuned microphones designed to deliver world-class sound, whether you’re working in a home studio or a state-of-the-art recording facility. Our mics offer everything from classic vintage warmth to ultra-modern transparency—giving artists and engineers the exact tone they need.

    Custom Microphones vs. Mass-Produced Models

    Most commercial microphones are designed with mass production in mind. While they can deliver great results, they often lack the unique sonic characteristics that give recordings their own identity. Custom microphones, on the other hand, allow for fine-tuned adjustments in:

    • Frequency response – Tailor your mic to emphasize specific tonal characteristics, whether it’s adding richness to vocals or clarity to acoustic guitars.
    • Capsule selection – Different capsule designs impact how a microphone responds to sound sources. Our mics feature hand-selected capsules optimized for studio recording.
    • Circuitry & components – High-end transformers, tubes, and FET circuits define the depth, warmth, and detail of a mic’s sound.
    • Polar patterns – Need more isolation or a wider pickup range? We customize polar patterns to match your recording environment.

    By offering custom modifications and fully bespoke designs, we provide artists and producers with the right tool for their sound—not just another mass-market microphone.

    How Custom Mics Benefit Your Studio Workflow

    Every recording engineer knows that great recordings start at the source. By using a microphone specifically designed for your studio’s acoustics and your preferred recording techniques, you can:

    • Reduce the need for excessive EQ and processing.
    • Capture more detail and character in performances.
    • Improve your mixing workflow by starting with a better raw recording.

    Many top-tier producers invest in boutique microphones because they save time in post-production while delivering a richer, more engaging sound from the start.

    Explore Rock Science Custom Microphones

    At Rock Science, we combine engineering expertise with a passion for handcrafted studio gear. Whether you’re looking for a high-fidelity condenser mic for vocals, a custom ribbon mic for smooth instrument tracking, or a versatile dynamic mic for all-purpose use, we can help you find—or build—the perfect match.

    Ready to take your recordings to the next level? Visit rockscience.net to explore our custom microphone offerings and see how we can transform your studio sound.