soundproofing for urban people

This is yet another video extolling the virtues of using Roxul "Safe and Sound" insulation.  Because Rockwool is fire-resistant, you can insulate with it up to the cans that support the recessed lighting without fear of overheating the lights (and burning out the bulbs) or igniting a spark. However, any time you open a hole in your ceiling, you invite the opportunity to transmit noise between floors. Remember: if you're going to spend money on drywall, get something like QuietRock or Supress that dampens noise. This is your one chance to get it right – don't cut corners on the materials and regret it later!

Recessed lights need to be insulated. If you cut holes in your ceiling for recessed lighting, this opens up a "window" for cold air or noise. So how can you insulate them safely? This 5-minute video from Dr. EnergySaver  is as pertinent to soundproofing as it is to thermal insulation. You have to cut holes cut in your ceiling to accommodate recessed lighting cans. If you don't have insulation in your ceiling at all, the hole makes an existing noise problem worse. If you do have insulation, you already know that you need to keep the insulation material away from the heat of the can. This video demonstrates a rockwool product that you can put over the can in order to prevent heat/electrical issues. Of course you need to have an attic or someplace where you can access the recessed can from above the ceiling, not from below. It's a great solution if it fits your space! I found these covers for $15 each at Amazon . You can subscribe to  Dr. EnergySaver 's ch