There are many acoustic panels now available to combat the problem high reverberation or echo in rooms with hard surfaces. We would like to put forward our thoughts on the top 5 acoustic panel systems available to the UK market.
We talk impartially and from experience, having used many different acoustic wall panels systems, either specified on projects or used in our own design schemes. This small list takes into account a number of factors including ‘effectiveness’ (most important, we believe), aesthetics, ease of installation, durability and supporting test data.
1. ECOPHON ‘VISTA’ WALL PANEL C
When it comes to reducing room reverberation, this class A sound absorbing wall panelling system is incredibly effective. The result of installing this panelling system to echoing rooms is quite amazing. It is the first product we recommend for highly reverberant areas, it looks great, its aesthetically versatile, suiting all spaces from high-end boardroom environments to noisy school canteens. The Texona fabric range is fashionable and timeless.
2. FABRIC WALL
This system achieves the highest possible marks for aesthetics and the look and feel of high quality. In terms of flexibility there is nothing that cannot be achieved. This system is site built by specialist installers. Floor to ceiling, wall to wall stretched fabric with a huge range of hidden track profiles. Very high levels of sound absorbency can be achieved with the right core thickness and fabrics. Certainly not the cheapest option, but with fabrics from Camira to Kvadrat to Paul Smith the design possibilities are endless and beautiful sound control can be achieved.
3. CUSTOM PRINTED ACOUSTIC PANELS
We have now overcome the old issues of reduced acoustic performance and fabric printing quality problems. It is now possible to produce over sized acoustic panels with high resolution printing the fabric with stunning results. Class A sound absorbency can be achieved and we believe this solution should be seriously considered by anyone looking for ‘office art’ or intelligent ways of branding receptions, atria, common parts, restaurants and canteens. It combines acoustic benefits, with high quality art, branding or marketing.
4. OFFECCT SOUNDWAVE
Offecct Soundwave panels are an excellent way of providing acoustic treatment to spaces by way of absorption and specifically diffusion. Although they are not as effective at reducing echo through sound absorbency as the Ecophon panels already mentioned above, they provide an excellent feature and texture and are available in many different textures and designs.
5. ECOPHON SUPER G
Ecophon Super G panels are a surprisingly versatile solution where durability and impact resistancy is required. They are an attractive way of treating environments such as sports halls, leisure centres and gymnasiums. The woven Super G glass-fibre surface is extremely durable, with the panels achieving Class A absorbency.
For more information on the above acoustic wall panel systems, contact ReSpace Acoustics. Who provide a complete assessment, design and installation service.