Sterling Skye - Studio Design & Optimization

07/16/2026

Most people start shopping for lights before they’ve decided what they’re actually trying to achieve.

That’s backwards.

I just added a new Home Studio Lighting Guide to the free Home Studio Success System. It opens with the five decisions that should shape your entire lighting setup before you spend a dollar.

If you want to look clearer, more consistent, and more professional on camera, I think you’ll find it helpful.

Grab the new Home Studio Lighting Guide, plus the rest of the free Home Studio Success System, here:

https://sterlingskyestudios.com/home-studio-success-system

07/07/2026

Friction kills momentum.

Build a setup that helps you get into the creative zone faster and stay there longer.

Smart plugs, voice commands, preset lighting scenes, one-button startup routines, and automated gear power can seem like small upgrades, but they’ll save you countless time and creative energy in the long run.

07/02/2026

Three common misconceptions of the Shure SM7B:

1. “It’s the Michael Jackson mic.”

Not quite. Michael Jackson recorded Thriller on the original Shure SM7, not the newer SM7B.

2. “You don’t need a Cloudlifter.”

Sometimes you don’t, but many setups benefit from one. The SM7B is gain-hungry, and pushing your preamp to its limits can introduce unwanted noise. A Cloudlifter, or the newer SM7dB with built-in gain, can make life much easier.

3. “It sounds incredible right out of the box.”

It’s a fantastic microphone, but most voices benefit from a little EQ. The SM7B has a naturally darker sound, so depending on your voice, you may want a low cut, a presence boost, or a bit of high-end EQ to help it shine.

The SM7B is still one of my favorite microphones. I install them all the time, but don’t expect to simply plug it in and get the best possible sound without a little tweaking.

07/01/2026

Your gear doesn’t have to be perfect, but a few smart upgrades in the right places make a bigger difference than most people expect.

Swipe through to see my top 3 studio upgrade recommendations →

Grab the free Home Studio Success System for a full list of essential tools and gear used in successful home studios: https://sterlingskyestudios.com/home-studio-success-system

06/30/2026

06/26/2026

How do you stop sound from getting out of a room?

For true soundproofing, you’re looking at serious construction: adding mass, isolation systems, sealing, and decoupling vibrating surfaces.

For light sound control, start with the weak points: doors, windows, air gaps, and obvious sound paths.

06/25/2026

Can curtains or sound blankets stop sound from entering or leaving your room?

No. Any curtain or blanket described as soundproof is lying to you. They’ll absorb and reduce some sound, but they’re definitely not soundproof.

06/24/2026

can make your room sound better, but they will not stop your neighbors, traffic, or a washing machine.

Acoustic panels do not help with

06/19/2026

How does your studio sound?

Quality acoustic panels are essential for capturing clean, echo-free recordings.

Need help building or optimizing your studio? Send me a message or visit my website to learn more

06/04/2026

Acoustic panels are great, but they won't stop your noisy neighbors.

New video is up: I answered a few real soundproofing questions from Reddit and broke down what actually helps.

Acoustic panels can make your room sound better, but they will not ...