When it comes to solving a noise problem, the internet can be a minefield of suggestions and wording can often be difficult to understand, we don’t want our customers to have a degree in acoustics in order to understand how our products work. 
In this blog we will look at the difference between sound proofing and sound absorbing, as well as hearing from a That Sounds Better customer on why they chose to install Ecophon sound absorbing panels into their space.

We often find that people ask for sound proofing solutions when in fact sound absorption is what’s needed. The difference being sound proofing will stop sound escaping by containing it, however, this will not help to correct issues with sound within a room. Acoustic sound absorbent panels are design to improve the acoustics within a room by absorbing sound waves, reducing reverberation (echo), and helping to limit the build-up of background noise, so, improving the acoustic environment.

If your issue is with noise from external sources such as adjoining neighbours, road noise, or noise created in a separate room within your home, (like kids playing their music too loud in their room) then unfortunately acoustic absorption solutions will not be able to eradicate the noise. Although if you can convince your neighbours that they require sound absorbing panels then they may be able to help if placed in the same room as the noise source.

Reverberation

You may be familiar with the term reverberation, if you’re not, let us explain. Reverberation is the effect caused by noise, bouncing off of the surfaces such as hard wood floors, windows, glass patricians and doors, these bounce around the room, resulting in echo and build-up of noise. This means you needing to talk louder and may have difficulty maintaining concentration.

You can reduce reverberation by increasing the amount of soft furnishings in your space, for example fitting carpets instead of hard wood floors and curtains instead of blinds as they help absorb sound and stop it from bouncing around the room, acoustic panels can further reduce reverberation and absorb echo when positioned correctly, meaning you don’t have to compromise on décor.

Have you ever been in a restaurant or bar that was so loud from background noise as well as the people opposites conversation that you barely hear yourself think? Let alone conduct your own conversation without having to shout to be heard. (I think we can all safely say we’ve been there.) Or have you been in a meeting room where you can hear yourself echo whilst on a video call with a colleague? Acoustic sound absorbing panels are perfect for these types of scenario; when placed correctly they absorb excess noise allowing conversations to be heard and enjoyed without interfering with others happening in the same space.

Tip: if you are trying to reduce echo/reverberation then fit wall panels on adjoining walls rather than opposite.

Still think that sound proofing is right for you?

Check out what That Sounds Better customer, and Owner of CD Creates Studios Casey Heyburn, says about why he chose to install Akusto™ One Panels to the ceiling and walls of his podcast studio, rather than installing a traditional sound proofing system.