Audio and video systems offer sanctuary from the harsh-noisy-daily grind. An AV system delivers music and movies, relieves stress, recharges energy, and soothes the soul. It’s a promising shared space that can also bring family and friends together.
Elevate the experience
A better/best audio & video system elevates the sanctuary experience.
A floor-standing or bookshelf floor-stand-mounted speaker anchors the better/best experience.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Speakers-Taking-up-Floorspace-1-1.png?resize=603%2C313&ssl=1)
However, the better and best speakers require floor space.
And this may be at odds with your desired room aesthetics.
The Negotiation
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Negotiation.png?resize=512%2C197&ssl=1)
A custom-installed architectural in-ceiling/in-wall speaker system can negotiate and bridge the speaker/aesthetic floor-space gap.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Architectural-Speakers.png?resize=407%2C241&ssl=1)
However, a typical drywall installation compromises audio performance.
Drywall (chalk, paper, glue) sucks the heart out of your music and movie soundtracks.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Sheetrock.png?resize=441%2C317&ssl=1)
The graph exposes a vast distorting gap of a premium brand name in-ceiling speaker mounted in drywall.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/STAIC-Before-Spec-Graph.jpg?resize=648%2C240&ssl=1)
The average 10-decibel loss from 600Hz to 1.5KHz illustrates how drywall generates muddy bass, harsh mid-range vocals, and forfeits decibel level.
Why?
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Why-.png?resize=1024%2C606&ssl=1)
Why does drywall corrupt your music and movie sound?
A demonstration illustrates.
Move laterally along and strike/tap a typical drywall-covered wall.
If you hear a solid thud, you have found a wood stud location.
Custom in-wall/ceiling speakers must be centered between studs for proper installation.
You’re centered between the studs if you hear a hollow drum-like sound.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/DRUM.png?resize=918%2C867&ssl=1)
The hollow drum-like sound illustrates inherent drywall resonance, which will combine with your custom-installed speaker’s sound. It is as a discordant distorting uninvited guest to the band.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Angry-Vacuum.png?resize=256%2C293&ssl=1)
In addition, drywall mechanically flexes out-of-phase with your speaker.
The drywall becomes a vacuum that sucks vocal and mid-bass warmth.
Drywall Solutions
Here are three options that minimize distorting out-of-phase drywall resonance, which recovers the premium audio performance you paid for.
1. Install hardwood paneled walls and ceilings.
This solution comes at an expensive time and materials cost.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Hardwood-Paneling.png?resize=698%2C339&ssl=1)
2. Install a wood baffle between studs before hanging the drywall.
Confirm the drywall installation avoids baffle damage.
Or create a retrofit baffle that inserts through the speaker cutout.
Both baffles require time and materials.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Drywall-Wall-.png?resize=1024%2C739&ssl=1)
3. Install the SandTrap Architectural Speaker Tuning System.
This out-of-the-box solution is an easier-to-install, lower-cost, retrofit solution.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/st_ceiling_spread_large-photo.png?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1)
The following graph illustrates the SandTrap reviving the previously noted in-ceiling speaker.
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/STAIC-After-Spec-Graph.jpg?resize=702%2C264&ssl=1)
It measurably & demonstrably reversed the distorting effects of drywall (paper/chalk/glue).
The $69.99 SandTrap easily inserts via the speaker cutout.
Do It
Go to SandTrapAudio.com
The SandTrap patented Architectural Speaker Tuning System
![](https://i0.wp.com/blog-sandtrapaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SandTrapAudio-Logo.png?resize=207%2C159&ssl=1)
Select This LINK — custom in-ceiling/in-wall speaker installation guidelines,