Building a pop-up vocal booth in 30 seconds

Need to record speech in a pinch but have an unpleasant-sounding room? Using just 4 acoustic blankets, light stands and clamps, we were able to drastically reduce this conference room's reflections and capture quality sound on a budget.
For increased treatment and isolation, create a "ceiling" with an additional acoustic blanket. If nothing else, you'll have an awesome fort to escape to during lunch!

[@dnp41]

What blankets did you use, and does it also help with sound insulation?

[@senalsound214]

For this video, we used Matthews Sound Blankets from B&H Photo in New York (www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/140104-REG/Matthews_329040_1_Sound_Blanket_with_Grommets.html). The primary function is to deaden acoustic reflections but, as a result of the dense fabric and fort-like design, there is considerable insulation benefit. While blankets alone won't "soundproof" a space, you'll definitely have more acoustic control of the room and should be able to yield solid recordings. The cost/benefit ratio is in the buyer's favor. Plus, you can use them to protect your gear on moving day! ;)

[@bangswift]

But how about the ceiling?

[@senalsound214]

Hey, Bangswift!
For the low decibel voice-over work I was doing, I was able to leave the top off. If you're projecting or mic'ing a louder source, you'll want to clamp a blanket across the top as well. I set this up in a carpeted room but if you're recording over a hard floor, you'll also want to lay down a rug or additional blanket (bringing the total count to six, including the topper).
Thanks for your question!
- Shawn C.