Recording Under Blankets

Recording under blankets represents the simplest possible acoustic isolation approach. This primitive technique provides surprising improvement in problematic acoustic spaces, offering functional results with zero investment beyond items most homes already contain.

The Basic Approach

Heavy blankets draped over the performer and microphone create an absorbent enclosure. The blanket blocks room reflections from reaching the microphone while providing absorption for sound that would otherwise reflect.

The technique works because blankets absorb high and mid frequencies effectively. The same quality that makes blankets warm makes them acoustically absorbent.

Thicker, heavier blankets provide more absorption than thin sheets or covers. Moving blankets used by furniture movers work particularly well due to their substantial weight.

Setup Methods

The simplest approach drapes a blanket over the performer’s head and the microphone stand, creating a tent-like enclosure. The performer sings or speaks under this blanket tent.

Alternatively, blankets can be arranged over furniture or stands surrounding the recording position. This creates more space while maintaining the absorptive environment.

Combining blanket coverage with existing room treatment addresses remaining problems. The blanket provides portable, adjustable coverage where permanent treatment doesn’t reach.

Practical Limitations

Heat buildup becomes uncomfortable quickly. Recording sessions under blankets must be brief with frequent breaks for cooling.

The dark, enclosed environment may feel uncomfortable or claustrophobic. Some performers cannot tolerate the confinement.

The appearance is obviously unprofessional. This matters less for home recording than for sessions where clients observe.

Sound Quality Considerations

Recordings made under blankets sound dry with minimal room ambience. This character suits some applications better than others.

Very dry recordings may sound unnatural without added reverb during mixing. The blanket removes room sound that provides subtle naturalness.

The acoustic character differs from professional vocal booth recordings. Blanket recordings have their own quality that may or may not serve specific projects.

When This Approach Works

Voice-over recording, particularly for video narration or podcasts, suits blanket recording well. The close, dry sound is often desired for spoken-word applications.

Demo vocal recording captures ideas without committing significant resources. The quick, no-cost approach serves documentation purposes effectively.

Emergency recording when better options aren’t available makes blanket recording valuable. Having a functional fallback approach prevents missed opportunities.

Microphone Considerations

Close microphone positioning works best under blankets. Greater distances would require more blanket coverage to maintain the absorptive environment.

Large-diaphragm condensers work under blankets but condense moisture from breath more quickly in the enclosed space. Allowing microphones to air out between sessions prevents moisture buildup.

Dynamic microphones tolerate the environment well and may be preferable for extended blanket recording sessions.

Improving the Basic Approach

Supporting blankets on frames rather than directly on the performer provides more space and air circulation. PVC pipe frames covered with blankets create semi-permanent improved setups.

Multiple blanket layers increase absorption. A single blanket provides some improvement while stacked blankets approach professional treatment effectiveness.

Combining blanket coverage above and to the sides with hard floor reflection beneath creates intentional acoustic character. This hybrid approach offers control over the sound.

Professional Usage

Despite the humble approach, blanket recording has produced professional results. Necessity-driven creativity led many successful recordings to capture this way.

The technique demonstrates that expensive solutions aren’t always required. Understanding acoustic principles enables effective improvisation.

Advanced studios use blanket coverage situationally even when proper treatment exists. The flexibility and portability serve specific needs that permanent treatment can’t address.