Understanding Noise Frequencies: Low, Mid and High — And How to Treat Them Effectively
West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd – Brighton & Sussex’s Leading Soundproofing Specialists
Noise isn’t just “noise.”
Every unwanted sound has a frequency, and different frequencies behave in very different ways. That’s why some noises feel like vibration in your chest, some sound like muffled voices, and others come through as sharp, irritating tones.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What low, mid and high frequencies actually are
- Why humans perceive these frequencies differently
- Which soundproofing solutions work best for each type
- Why professional installation from West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd is crucial for real results
🔊 What Are Noise Frequencies?
Sound frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz), which tells us how fast sound waves vibrate.
1. Low Frequencies (20–250 Hz)
Deep, powerful, penetrating noises.
Examples:
- Bass music
- Drum kits
- Heavy footsteps
- Road traffic rumble
- Industrial machinery
Low-frequency noise travels through solid structures, vibrates walls, and is the hardest to block.
2. Mid Frequencies (250–2000 Hz)
This is where most speech and everyday household noise sits.
Examples:
- TV dialogue
- Normal conversation
- Barking dogs
- Office noise
- Household appliances
Mid frequencies are easier to control because they don’t travel as far or vibrate the structure as deeply.
3. High Frequencies (2000–20,000 Hz)
Sharp, bright, directional sounds.
Examples:
- Screaming
- Whistles
- Phone alerts
- High-pitched tools
High frequencies bounce off hard surfaces and can feel piercing but are the easiest to absorb.
👂 How Humans Perceive Different Frequencies
Humans don’t hear all frequencies equally.
- We are most sensitive to frequencies between 1kHz and 4kHz, the range of human speech.
- We perceive low frequencies more as vibration than sound, which is why bass feels “felt” rather than “heard.”
- High frequencies decay quickly in the air but feel sharper and more irritating.
This is why different noise problems require different acoustic treatments.
🛠️ Best Soundproofing Solutions for Each Frequency Range
Low-Frequency Noise Solutions (Bass, drums, traffic rumble)
Low frequencies require mass, decoupling, and dense acoustic layers.
Best solutions include:
- Acoustic independent stud walls
- Decoupled ceiling systems
- Resilient bar or Genie Clip systems
- Mass-loaded acoustic boards
- Acoustic mineral wool (dense, low-frequency absorption)
- Floor and ceiling floating systems
- SilentSand Acoustic Boards
Low-frequency soundproofing must be carefully designed — DIY methods rarely work.
This is where the expertise of West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd is crucial.
Mid-Frequency Noise Solutions (TVs, conversation, domestic noise)
Mid frequencies benefit from:
- Acoustic plasterboard build-ups
- Acoustic insulation (45kg–60kg density)
- Resilient systems like Genie Clips or Acoustic Hangers
- Soundproofing membranes
- Solid-core doors and seals
- SilentSand Acoustic Boards
These systems reduce airborne sound and improve speech privacy significantly.
High-Frequency Noise Solutions (screaming, alarms, sharp tools)
Because high frequencies are easier to absorb, the most effective solutions include:
- Acoustic panels
- Soft furnishings and wall treatments
- Acoustic foam or fabric-wrapped absorbers
- Carpets, heavy curtains, and rugs
For studios or offices, high-frequency treatment dramatically improves clarity and comfort.
🧠 Why Full-Frequency Soundproofing Requires Professional Design
Every building behaves differently.
Materials, cavity depths, structural gaps, and even building age all affect how frequencies travel.
This is why West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd, based in Brighton and serving all surrounding Sussex areas, is the trusted specialist for:
- Home soundproofing
- Studio builds
- Drum room conversions
- Office acoustic upgrades
- Party-wall soundproofing
- Ceiling and floor noise reduction
- Full-room acoustic tuning
Their installations are engineered to treat all noise frequencies, not just the ones you can hear the loudest.
🎯 Conclusion: Effective Soundproofing = Frequency-Specific Solutions
Noise is complex, and each frequency range requires a different approach.
Whether you’re dealing with deep bass, everyday conversation, or sharp high-frequency sound, the most reliable way to eliminate the problem is a system designed by specialists.
For homeowners and businesses in Brighton, Hove, and across Sussex,
West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd remains the leading expert in diagnosing, designing, and installing effective frequency-based soundproofing systems.