Acoustic panels | page 22

Acoustic panels help shape the sound conditions in a room by reducing some unwanted reflections and reverberation. They can be useful for recording, mixing, playing and listening to music when hard surfaces cause echo or reduce clarity. They are not soundproofing: panels affect sound inside the room but do not stop it travelling through walls, ceilings or doors. The result depends on panel construction, placement, covered area and the properties of the room.

When choosing, first locate the troublesome reflections, then consider panel material and size, and finally the purpose of the room. From this category you can continue to foam or wooden absorption panels.

• Foam absorption panels: lightweight options in different sizes, thicknesses, profiles and colours. Check the type, material and mounting method of the specific model; the category name alone does not determine performance across the full frequency range.
• Wooden absorption panels: panels with wood, plywood or HDF parts where the complete construction matters, not only the visible surface. Check whether the model is listed as an absorber or diffuser and where the manufacturer recommends installing it.

Why choose acoustic panels?

• Managing reflections and reverb – a suitable absorption panel may reduce reflections from hard surfaces and shorten reverberation in a particular room.
• Matching the interior – material, finish, colour and format can suit the room, but appearance should not replace checking technical data.
• Product-specific mounting – fixing methods vary, so check whether mounting hardware is included and whether the panel is intended for a wall or ceiling.
• Different uses – home studios, rehearsal rooms, listening rooms and offices have different reflective surfaces and requirements; adjust panel quantity and placement accordingly.