Cheap fixes for a muddy room

Before spending money on treatment, try the free moves that cut mud.

Move first, buy later

Record away from parallel bare walls, put the mic off-axis to the room’s longest dimension, and hang a duvet behind the performer. These three changes beat most cheap foam kits.

Frequently asked questions

Do foam panels help?

Thin foam does little for the low frequencies that cause mud. Bookshelves, rugs, and irregular surfaces do more per dollar.