The number of acoustic panels needed depends on the space. In recording studios, panels should cover reflection points on the walls and ceiling, and bass traps should fill the room corners. For general spaces like offices, covering 15-25% of wall space lowers noise levels. Large, echoey spaces often require a professional assessment, combining walls and ceilings for best results.

The proper placement of acoustic panels depends on the space. In recording studios, panels should be placed at reflection points between the speakers and the listener, with bass traps in corners for low frequencies. In spaces such as offices or restaurants, panels should be placed near noise sources e.g. the walls or ceiling areas close to where people sit. In large open spaces, panels should be spread out to reduce reverberation and echoes. A professional assessment is recommended for optimal results.

If you're producing or mixing music on monitor speakers, effective acoustic panels are definitely worth the investment for improved sound accuracy. The same applies to home cinemas, where clarity is key. In busy spaces like offices or restaurants, acoustic panels reduce noise and distractions, creating a calmer, more productive atmosphere. For many, the benefits of suitable acoustic panels often outweigh the costs.

Acoustic panels are typically made from porous materials like open-cell foam or fibre insulation, which absorb sound by converting it into friction. At EQ Acoustics, we use Friendly Fibre, a 100% PET (polyester fibre) material that is non-irritant, durable, and exceptionally fire-rated (Euroclass B). Made primarily from recycled plastic bottles, it’s eco-friendly and safe for all environments, including schools.

Acoustic panels work by absorbing sound waves and reducing reflections within a room. Made from porous materials like open-cell foam or fibre, they allow sound to penetrate the material, where it’s converted into friction and dissipated as heat. This process reduces reverberation, echoes, and background noise, improving sound clarity in spaces such as recording studios, offices, or classrooms.