Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Make Cheap, Easy, Attractive DIY Sound Absorption Wall Panels Share
Also Check out our Complete Guide to Home Theater Acoustics for more information, including where to place your acoustic
panels.
1 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
(one) 2 ft. x 4 ft. x 2 in. fiberglass or rockwool absorption panel (~$6.60 per panel)
(two) 1 in. x 2 in. x 8 ft. wood furring strips (~$1.44 per panel)
wood glue
spray adhesive
Total Cost is about $20 per panel, or $2.50 per square foot.
Tools Required
Electric screwdriver/drill
Saw
Scissors
Hammer
Sound absorption panels trap acoustical energy (sound) and prevent it from reflecting off of the surfaces they
cover. The panels are used to eliminate echoes and reflections that muddle or color amplified music and
speech. These wall panels will also reduce reverberation levels in a room, which can sometimes provide
ambient noise reduction.*
*Note that choral music, piano, orchestral instruments, group singing, and pipe organ benefit from reasonably
reverberant acoustics, with many reflective surfaces. Installation of sound absorption material can harm
musician performance and sound quality for these specific applications.
Improving surround-sound imaging and clarity for dvd/blu ray movies, sports, or video games in a home
theater
Reducing slap-back echo and reverberation in large halls, auditoriums, and contemporary churches
Reducing chatter, din, and noise in crowded gathering spaces, restaurants, or bars
Providing more accurate listening conditions in recording studios and control rooms
2 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Note that sound absorption material is often called “soundproofing.” I believe that the term “soundproof” is
usually misapplied, which will be discussed in another post. Sound absorption panels are NOT able to
significantly reduce sound transmission through a wall between two adjacent spaces; they are intended to
improve sound quality within the room that they are installed by attenuating sound reflections and reducing
reverberation/decay times. If you are looking to reduce sound transmission through a wall, please see our
directory of noise control products and solutions here: http://acousticsfreq.com/noise-control-products/
1) Molded melamine foam wedges and eggcrate (e.g. Auralex, Sonex, etc.):
2) Decorative fabric-wrapped fiberglass panels (e.g. Golterman & Sabo, Wall Technology, Fabricmate, etc.):
3 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
The acoustic properties of each of these are very similar, with all of them absorbing approximately 100% of
incident sound energy at mid and upper frequency ranges. Feel free to compare Sabine absorption
coefficients at your leisure. These material types are mostly differentiated by their visual appearance.
An important consideration for any sound absorption panel, though, is thickness. A thicker panel will more
effectively absorb a longer wavelength (lower frequency) of sound. Therefore, when choosing an acoustical
material, consider the frequency content (tonal spectrum) of sound that you seek to absorb. For placement on
drywall surfaces, the following rules of thumb should be helpful:
– For human voices, crowds of people, and speech use 1” absorber thickness
– For amplified music with bass and drums or cinema surround-sound use 2” absorber thickness (or greater)
The necessary quantity and placement of sound absorption material for a given space is determined by the
specific type of listening functions occurring there. Extreme ends of the spectrum range from
traditional/classical worship spaces which are entirely hard-surfaced (great for pipe organ and choral music) to
THX-certified cinemas and movie theaters which have sound-absorbing materials on all wall, floor, and ceiling
surfaces.
Consider which wall and ceiling reflections need to be eliminated and cover those entire areas with sound
absorption treatment.
4 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Pricing for manufactured, two-inch thick, fabric-wrapped fiberglass sound absorption panels is usually $6 to
$8 per square foot. I have seen sound absorption panels priced as high as $12.25 per square foot! Given the
large square foot area that needs to be covered to achieve a suitable home theater acoustic, this falls well
outside of the average consumer’s budget.
I may annoy a few people by telling you this, but you can make your own sound absorption panels for MUCH
less. What follows are explanations, instructions, and specifications for very effective sound absorption
panels.
Step 1: Select a sound-absorbing core material
The sound absorbing core material must have the following characteristics:
Unfaced
2” thickness
Johns Manville 817 Spin-Glas 6lb pcf, 2″ thick: ~ $3.73 per square foot.
Owens Corning Fiberglas 705 6lb pcf, 2″ thick: ~ $3.06 per square foot.
Roxul Rockboard 80, 8lb pcf, 2″ thick: ~ $0.78 per square foot.
*Note: Insulation prices can vary greatly depending on your supplier, so check into all three or other equivalent
3-8 lb fiberglass or mineral fiber insulation board products.
**Also Note: Fiberglass and mineral fiber insulation are known irritants. Please wear a mask, gloves, and
glasses when handling the insulation. Follow the manufactures guidelines for safe usage.
Click to find dealer locators for: Johns Manville – Owens Corning – Roxul
5 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
My prototype panels were built with the Roxul RHT 80 insulation, which is the least expensive sound
absorption material that I have found. The Roxul acoustical performance is similar to the Owens Corning and
Johns Manville products, but it is softer and has a less regular shape. The manufacturer-supplied sound
absorption coefficients are as follows:
2″ Roxul RHT 80 2” Owens Corning 705 2” Johns Manville 817
125 Hz = 0.39 125 Hz = 0.16 125 Hz = 0.38
250 Hz = 0.84 250 Hz = 0.71 250 Hz = 0.93
500 Hz = 1.08 500 Hz = 1.02 500 Hz = 1.10
1000 Hz = 1.01 1000 Hz = 1.01 1000 Hz = 1.07
2000 Hz = 1.02 2000 Hz = 0.99 2000 Hz = 1.07
4000 Hz = 1.01 4000 Hz = 0.99 4000 Hz = 1.07
Sabine absorption coefficients are roughly the ratio of reflected sound absorbed. So, at a given frequency
range, a 1.00 coefficient equals a 100% absorption rate* (0.71 equals 71%, etc)*. Note that these figures are
provided by the individual manufacturers and tested in different labs. It is safe to assume that each of these
materials is equivalent to the others.
*Edit: Sabine absorption coefficients are not a true energy absorption coefficient and can exceed 1.00.
Therefore the translation into % absorption of reflected sound energy is not quite accurate from a physics
perspective. However, for the purposes of acoustical design in architecture it is a good way to understand and
compare different materials.
6 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
2. Apply a heavy dose of spray adhesive to entire perimeter of insulation. (glue will hold the insulation in
3. Position the insulation such that the bottom face of the panel is flat and level with the wood frame.
4. Arrange wood segments around the fiberglass panel. You will want the frame to secure tightly around
Pre-drill a pilot hole for one corner to ensure alignment and prevent the wood from splitting.
7 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
8 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
The most common fabric choice for commercial panel manufacturers is Guilford of Maine Panel Textiles. This
is a high-quality material. That being said, there are a great variety of inexpensive fabrics that can work
equally well. Colored burlap is a very common choice. My prototype panels use a Keepsake Calico paisley
material purchased from a local fabric store. Considerations for your fabric cover:
Ensure that your fiberglass panel is not visible through the fabric
Beware that fabric with visual patterns will be tricky to line up squarely when stretched over the wood
frame
9 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
2. Place your framed panel on top of the fabric with the flat/level/even side facing up.
3. Have a friend wrap the fabric around the backside of the panel and staple it to the wood frame every 3”
4. Stretch the fabric tightly along the opposite edge and staple, continuing along the panel edge at 3”
intervals.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the top and bottom edges, taking care to neatly fold each corner.
6. Apply spray adhesive underneath the remaining loose fabric areas on the back side of the panel.
10 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
11 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Panel Back
12 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Panel Front
13 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
found in our detailed article: Where to Place Sound Absorption Panels in a Home Theater. Note: Adding a
small airspace (1.0 to 2.0 inches) behind the panel will significantly improve low frequency sound absorption
performance.
These panels can be mounted similarly to a heavy piece of artwork. Use your discretion and judgement to
make sure that your panel is safe, secure, and stable. I screwed two heavy-duty D-Ring hangers on each side
of the wood frame, measured to exact spacing. These were hung on two 20-lb rated picture hangers. See the
Equipment List below for hardware recommendations.
Step 5: Listen
Now you are ready to enjoy your music or home theater the way that it was intended. Most people are
surprised to hear what music and movies sound like in a properly-treated acoustic environment. The audible
difference cannot be overstated; it is like night and day.
You will probably need quite a few of these panels to get the desired outcome, so repeat the above steps in
an efficient assembly-line process until you have treated all of the desired wall and ceiling surfaces.
14 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Here are some photos from a recent build by our reader Mike:
15 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Tags: acoustical, acoustics, blu ray, foam, home theater, how to, noise reduction, recording studio, sound Share
insulation, soundproof, wall panel
142 Responses
Cheap Acoustic Panel DIY - Hack a Day October 21, 2011 at 10:43 am ·
[…] Wolfram] wrote in to let us know about a simple and cheap acoustic panel DIY he put together.
When installing a home theater acoustics are often neglected (especially if […]
Corning and used jute burlap coffee sacks as my fabric (super breathable fabric). Turned out really
Learn to make sound absorption panels for better audio - The Red Ferret Journal
November 3, 2011 at 6:33 am ·
16 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
[…] at AcousticsFreq they have put together a great guide on how to build your own sound
Make A DIY Sound Absorption Acoustical Panel | Lifehacker Australia November 6, 2011 at
2:00 pm ·
[…] How to Build Your Own Acoustical Panels [AcousticsFREQ via Red Ferret] audioacousticsdiy
Make a DIY Sound Absorption Acoustical Panel [DIY] | That Soviet Guy November 6, 2011 at
3:03 pm ·
[…] How to Build Your Own Acoustical Panels | AcousticsFREQ via Red Ferret […]
Make a DIY Sound Absorption Acoustical Panel [DIY] - Bowl of Leche : Bowl of Leche
November 7, 2011 at 1:01 am ·
[…] How to Build Your Own Acoustical Panels | AcousticsFREQ via Red Ferret […]
A DIY Sound Panel that Doesn't Distract from your Decor | Apartment … | sound November
7, 2011 at 9:10 pm ·
[…] and sound blog Acoustics FREQ shows us how it’s done. The bottom of this row is a sound-
NAG Meeting 11-28-11 | Nebraska Acoustics Group (NAG) December 5, 2011 at 4:52 pm ·
[…] which looks very pretty (shared by Megan Christensen), and a fellow blogger who has posted on
how to make your own acoustic panels (shared by Andrew Hathaway). One other item of interest to
Coffee Sack Sound Baffles | Grant Muller December 27, 2011 at 9:54 pm ·
[…] pretty much it. I realized that this wasn’t particularly novel when I realized that this guy did almost
the same thing independently, but I think the coffee sacks were a nice […]
Allegiance Records recording and design January 11, 2012 at 8:41 pm · Reply →
Great website. A lot of helpful info here. I?m sending it to several pals ans additionally sharing in
17 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Could the fabric be trimmed away from the frame (leaving the old fabric glued to the back of the
panel) and new fabric applied over the back? Would this secondary layer adversely affect the efficacy
look more finished and neat. If you wanted to change the fabric eventually, I would
suggest cutting off the excess and not gluing it down. Then you could just pull out the
The article suggests several times that many panels are needed, but it’s worth pointing out that in
many rooms, a significant improvement can be had by simply putting one panel on each side where
the primary reflection of each speaker occurs on the way to the listening spot. Second would
probably be the reflection off the wall behind the speakers. Many pros I know also like to have a
bookshelf behind the listening spot, with books and other knickknacks added randomly to diffuse the
No doubt you realize this, but the article might make some think the goal is to cover walls extensively.
2-6 panels would probably double or triple the quality of most listening rooms. I’ve also read
somewhere that having about 25% of a room surface absorptive is ideal for conversational clarity. So,
“I’ve also read somewhere that having about 25% of a room surface absorptive is ideal for
conversational clarity”
yup,
18 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
within a space.. so, they can absorb echoes, reverberation, sound reflections, etc.
However, they are not an effective barrier to prevent sound from transmitting to an
adjacent space. You will need to improve the Sound Transmission Class (STC)
performance of your wall assembly. That’s a tricky task, that usually requires a
This sound barrier blanket may give you a few decibels improvement, if you cover 100%
of the common wall surface, leaving no gaps and seams. However, it might not be cost
effective for the small improvement you will gain. Sorry to say, but you are not going to
If the noise is affecting your sleep, consider using some soft ear plugs (Howard Leight
me. I just recently moved from an apartment because of bass from the tenant below me, now I am
hear voices from the neighbors, which is slightly more bearable. Any suggestions for that? I am
http://www.audimutesoundproofing.com/Audimute-sound-reduction-curtain-noise-proof-your-band-
room-soundproofing-existing-walls.aspx
%E2%80%99n%E2%80%99sound I’m just wondering if you were familiar at all with the Safe ‘n’
Sound, and if you considered the RHT 80 a better product for sound absorption. Thanks.
19 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
That product is a batt insulation for installation within a wall cavity. It will help improve
the sound transmission loss of the wall, but does not absorb reflections off of the
drywall surface. The Safe N’ Sound material does have excellent sound absorption
performance, but is not firm enough to be ideal for a wall-panel installation. The RHT 80,
or equivalent products,are what you want for the DIY sound absorption wall panel
construction.
and studio. However, it is the neighbor above me that is sometimes bothered by the transmission of
sounds going up through the ceiling. Between the floors is about half a foot or a foot of space I
assume. Will it make a significant difference and is it possible to fill the space between the joists with
characteristics, but is not always practical for everyone. That’s why I used the 2″ core
for the article. If your floor/ceiling cavity is currently empty (no insulation), then adding a
thick batt insulation will make a noticeable improvement. It may not get you all the way
there, but will be noticeable and worthwhile. There are lots of blow-in insulation options
out there (search google). Make sure you use something that does not harden or
become rigid. You want the equivalent of loose batt insulation in the cavity to eliminate
resonance.
This may be kind of a silly question, but how did you hang your panels from the ceiling?
Also, not knowing much about acoustics, if I just want to reduce echo from people talking (and
children screaming =) ) are there optimal places to put the panels, or would I just want to cover as
20 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Check out the picture frame mounting stuff at the hardware store, it’s really no different
than hanging a large piece of art. Also, it doesn’t have to be perfectly flat to the wall or
ceiling. The sound absorption properties actually improve if you leave a little space. I just
posted a new article that may give you some ideas about how to find the best
DIY Acoustic Panels - DIYMA Car Audio Forum April 17, 2012 at 1:10 pm ·
[…] and best investment for improving the overall quality of the sound . How to Build Your Own
Acoustic Panels (DIY) | AcousticsFREQ.com The panel in the middle is in front of my seldom used flat
office in the basement and hang it on the inside of the door leading down to reduce noise from the
upstairs (my kids!). Also, any recommendations for this project such as a door sweep (that will not
mar vinyl flooring with repeated use) and “weather” striping? Many thanks!
Unfortunately, this sound absorption panel will not significantly improve the sound
transmission class (STC) of that door. These panels will improve sound quality by
absorbing unwanted acoustic reflections, but do not act as a barrier for sound
transmission. I would instead look at treating the door itself. At some point, I plan to do
a little series on this site about noise control because it is a very common question. In
1) Start with a thick, heavy solid core wood door (not hollow core)
2) Use a neoprene bulb compression seal around the perimeter (sides and top)
http://www.ngpinc.com/product_view.cfm?nProduct_ID=42
3) Use an exterior grade threshold seal or automatic door bottom at the base of the
door.
21 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
It is important to maximize the mass of the door and the quality of the seals. Make sure
If you wish to achieve even more isolation, you could add a second door (treated as
to take (read: minimum $). So would I be right to assume that I will get the most improvement as a
function of area (ie, door mass, then threshold seal then perimeter seal)?
Secondarily, the door opens to the stairwell (wood stairs with sheet rock walls and ceiling) leading
down to the basement floor landing. So the stairwell seems channel sound coming through the door,
reflect off the sheet rock basement wall at the bottom landing and into the basement. The stairs will
ultimately be carpeted. Would this panel be of any significant benefit on the basement wall at the
sound absorption material to the intermediate space (carpet, wall panels, etc.) will
1994. My wife hated my cardboard egg crates. I now have a 20ft x 20ft theater room since 2006 and
the echo is killing me. The wife and daughter do not notice it.
The cost to do this has stopped me every time. I was hoping the price would drop on this stuff but
I have thought about doing it my self but I was stuck on foam. Fiberglass is a very good material to
22 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Hello, I’m looking for Roxul RHT 80 in my area of Los Angeles, CA. I went to the Roxul RHT 80
website and got the local distributors. I called them all and they don’t even know what I’m talking
about. Did the name change? is it no longer RHT 80? Do anybody know where I can get some Roxul
I contacted Roxul customer service and they gave me these dealers who have
purchased Roxul RHT80 it in the past. They may have it in stock or can order it for you.
CWCI Insulation
626-369-4424
Pacific Insulation
Benicia, CA 94510
707-741-2963
If anyone else has trouble finding the product, try calling Roxul Customer Service at
1-800-265-6878.
on this website
http://www.atsacoustics.com/roxul-rockboard-80.html
If you can’t find any of the three products listed in my article, then look for an equivalent
23 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Excellent. Just what I needed for my home cinema (buying finished acoustic panels are quite
Peter
echo-y classroom. I live in Canada and was wondering what material I could use that is available
Bexter
Roxul is actually a Canadian company, so I would guess that you should have no
thicknesses. The other options listed just are not locally available to me. Looking at the accoustic
thickness or consider using 2 layers of 1.5″. The thickness is important for improving
confusing for me, shouldnt it be cubic foot? How important is the density of the material? Because in
my country Ive found many suitable materials, mainly I was looking for insulation(mineral and
fiberglass) with better acoustic properties (average sound absorption coefficient 0.90 – 0.95 in band
24 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Lahino, Absorption coefficients are more important than material density. If you have an
insulation material that has been tested and performs well, then use that. Note that
How to Record Sound Effects on a Budget | Jetstreaming October 17, 2012 at 8:39 pm ·
[…] How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels is written from a home theatre perspective. Use their
detailed instructions to create panels for your sound effects studio. […]
and 6.0 PCF looks to have pretty good sound absorption coefficients.
film? I’m thinking of doing that to contain any dust fibers and make them safer to be around.
Any thoughts?
The US government has excluded mineral fibre from its list of carcinogenic materials.
Which is good because the stuff is used in many different ways in commercial and
residential construction, including as HVAC liner material. Mineral fibre dust is only a
concern in high quantities, such as for people who work with the material. So, you
should wear gloves and a mask when you are handling or cutting the insulation to avoid
irritation from breathing in high concentrations of dust. More info on health issues with
seen any evidence of fiber dust coming from my fabric wrapped panels.
you wish to go that route I would find a material that is acoustically tested with
encapsulation.
25 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Starting my DIY build of these panels on monday, my question concerns the material. Did the
Keepsake Calico work out or was it to heavy? My problem is the right material I did research yours
and its 100% cotton, so in theroy if I stay with the guidlines of that material I should be ok, provided
yours did work out. As you stated “Prototype” so curious if the material changed or ???
of craft and it looks like I’m about to spend a bucketload to drown out the family of wild animals living
through the fabric. We were thinking the durability may be needed because the walls we are covering
are in a gymnasium in a family center for our church. They will be up high but the possibility of a
basketball or volley ball hitting them makes us worried about using burlap or a light weight fabric.
I would suggest using one of the acoustical core materials described in the article or
The canvas cover should be acceptable as long as it is breathable and permeable (i.e.
Regarding the frame, please follow the instructions for construction and mounting in the
article. This is the easiest, least expensive, most effective way I have found to make
these panels. Remember: if you deviate from the recipe, you can’t expect the dish to
26 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
We have never seen or felt this material. We have no idea how rigid it is? Would screws or staples
We just have no idea what it looks like or just how rigid it is, but we are hoping we can do this without
a wood frame.
Amazon has some Roxul products but not the RHT 80.
http://www.amazon.com/Roxul-Rockboard-Mineral-Wool-Board/dp/B006C10IR6
It seems like they are identical though but different names. The “Rockboard 80” also has a density of
Eric, do you know what the main differences are? Seems like this product will do the same job.
I think these may be the same panels, but resold from another company. The price is
actually similar to what I paid from a local insulation supplier. SO, I would say go ahead
The room has two windows, which I plan to cover with these DIY panels. But I also am curious as to
where or how man panels I should have in addition to this in order to enhance my music recording,
which involves acoustic drums, vocals, and amplified guitars. Is there some method or general idea
I love these DIY panels because I have a good feeling I can make the room both aesthetically
27 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
theater” will apply to your recording studio project as well. However, you’ll be
substituting the instrument locations as the source point and the microphone locations
as the receiver position. I would also recommend getting THIS BOOK for a very good
overview of architectural acoustics and recording studio design techniques. I hope this
Thanks for asking. No, it will not sag if you follow my instructions. I have recommended
a rigid mineral fiber insulation board as the acoustical core, which will hold its shape. If
you use a standard fiberglass batt insulation, then yes, it would sag.
-Eric
I’m about to start my first panel, but I’m having trouble getting any of the insulation materials here in
south Florida at a reasonable cost. For example 1 panel with shipping is almost $30, 6 panels of the
RHT 80 is $100 after shipping. I can’t find a supplier in my area. I went to Home Depot and picked up
3 5/8″ 2’x4′ acoustic ceiling tiles. Using all 3 panels would give me a thickness of 1-7/8″. Do you
I think your plan should work as long as the tiles are high performance (high NRC) and
28 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
not backed by foil or any other non-permeable material. You could also add a little
airspace behind to improve the low frequency absorption rates. How much did that cost
-Eric
I bought the USG Ceilings Fifth Avenue 2 ft. x 4 ft. Lay-In Ceiling Tile (3-Pack) from Home Depot. It
was $18.52 for all three panels. The panels are made of Fiberboard material. The NRC is 55, but
since I’m using three panels would it be higher than that? The price is pretty comparable to the six
pack of RHT 80 ($115 for 6), but this way I can build one at a time – I probably only need 3 panels in
my room, maybe 4 at the most – so the rest would be wasted. Do you think the RHT 80 would be that
much better and worth it? How did you get your RHT 80 for $6.60 / panel?
Well, it depends whether the NRC performance of those tiles is limited by its thickness,
or surface reflection. That could be something for me to try to test in my quest to find
the cheapest DIY absorption panel possible. The price I list in the article is what I
purchased the originals for from Allied Insulation in Milwaukee. If you contact Roxul’s
support line, they can probably find you a wholesale retailer in your area.
/blog/?p=62 Anyone know of a good circuit simulator? Gandolf probably eliminated all other possible
designs, […]
29 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
from the Milwaukee area so would be willing to drive to save on the ridiculous shipping that other
places are charging to order these. Do you have a part number that you used with Allied when you
contacted them?
I am a photographer and have lots of stretched canvas photos in my apartment. If I have deep
enough frames, can I insert the Material behind stretched canvas with ink and get enough acoustic
transparency? I would love to be able to make the photography functional as well as decorative.
Thoughts?
That is an interesting question. Is the stretched canvas very permeable? Could you
easily breath through it if you held it up to your mouth? This will determine whether it will
market a “photo faced” acoustical panel, but they do a lot of R&D to make sure the
cover allows sound to pass through into the sound absorptive core. Check this out:
http://www.gsacoustics.com/acousti-image.aspx
is. I am guessing hat darker pictures with more ink may be more problematic, but I’ll give it a try when
therapy gym. They do work great. The problem I’ve encountered in these situations is that these
kinds of spaces typically have large areas of glass at the street side of the space. Any thoughts?
30 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
It will be hard to absorb sound reflections from a glass surface without affecting the view
through the window. Plush draperies can help. There are also some micro-perforated
clear acrylic sound absorption materials on the market. See here: http://en.wikipedia.org
/wiki/Micro_perforated_plate
-Eric
a mask. Cut it outside if you can to minimize the dust fibers in your house. -Eric
In the article I give a link for finding local insulation suppliers for Roxul, OC and Johns
Mannville. If you buy from one of these distributors, the price should be lower. Also, in
some areas Owens Corning 703 may be less expensive than the Roxul. You are looking
31 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
I purchased black burlap for my fabric, from JoAnn fabric but I am concerned it will show through. I
got it for 20% off so I thought it was worth a try. About $6 per panel.
Took me 20 minutes to find enough straight wood at home depot to build 6 panels. But paid about
$1.74 per panel. Because I was concerned about the wood showing through, I spray painted the
So without screws, hanging hardware and glue (which I have), I am at ~$15 per panel.
I was thinking about miter cutting the corners on the wood for a cleaner fit. May not be worth the
Which form was used for the build? Thanks! The band can’t wait to build these and move into our
completing projects like this (i am one.), lemme tell you, it is super easy to do, mine turned out great. I
ended up using Roxul Safe N’ Sound after doing some research, and you can get 12 3″ batts for $42
which is a great deal, this was easily available at most of the Home Depots in my area, so no tough
hunting. if you use 2″ strips of wood for the frames, each frame costs about $5 or $6, and then it’s
just making a fabric choice and making sure you have the other supplies entailed.
I recommend the Safe N’ Sound for your material as it is specifically made for sound/fire insulation.
Thanks for the kind words! Send me pics and I’ll add them to the article.
and scrubbable. I’d like to use a marine/automotive vinyl for those reasons. How much sound
absorption will I be sacrificing? I tried the “breathe test” and it hardly moves. Thanks!
32 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
I am sorry to say that if the fabric is not permeable, then it will be somewhat sound
reflective, especially at higher frequencies. There are products available that are
Web/Hygiene/Hygiene-Advance-Wall-C3/
article, and I made a large one that is 55×89. The large one is behind our sofa with LaserDiscs framed
and hung on it. I did it that way for aesthetic reasons. You can see how they turned out here:
http://www.livgeek.com/blog/2013/11/22/diy-building-acoustic-treatments
they’re working great! I’ll probably need to do another 6 but this is a huge step in the right direction. I
couldn’t get any of the insulation types you recommended – at least not for a reasonable price, but
what I discovered was that Roxul Comfortboard IS has nearly identical absorption coefficients at 3″
thickness as the Rockboard 80 at the same thickness, and is much more widely available. I used 2 x
1 1/2″ boards per panel, and I’m very pleased with the results, for a fraction of te cost of buying pre
Anyone who is doing remodeling should use a trick I have used for years. I insulate ALL walls, interior
as well as the usual exterior. I also try not to build “square” rooms. If I have a little latitude, I use
non-90 degree corners, helps prevent “ringing” like when you clap your hands.
The interesting thing about the in-wall insulation is that it improves the acoustic qualities of the
33 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Just read your article. We have a dog care Center and need to cover the feeding kennels. Would dogs
barking be in the high frequency or the low? I m wondering what thickness to use…thanks
You may want to use 2″ panels. Larger dogs will have a relatively low fundamental
frequency to their voice. Note that sound absorption treatments like these panels are
good for reducing reverberant energy and echo within a room, not for acting as a barrier
between rooms.
-Eric
You are right, it is probably not necessary. However, I thought it helped keep everything
together better. With the glue, there was no movement of the insulation within the panel
or of the fabric on the back. Use you judgement and do what works best for you.
-Eric
Yes, that could be a possible application. If you have a large wall that is reflecting noise,
absorption panels can eliminate that reflection and help reduce the perceived loudness
of “chatter”.
-Eric
34 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
placement. I have converted a hobby room into a listening room. The room size is 9′ x 11′
approximately and is all gypsum and hardwood floor. I started up my sound system in it yesterday
and the echo and reverb are out of this world. I’ll be making your panels this week!
I did some research and it seems that the panels that you recommend (RHT80) are now SL900
boards (http://www.roxul.com/products/industrial/sl+900+boards+and++slabs+
(thermal+applications)). I’ve looked at various places where they say they are distributors and no one
carries these. I wanted to use the Safe’nSound boards but this was discouraged further up. Would
you have comments about the ComfortBoard IS? I can find these.
Last question, I saw in your blog a picture of someone with multiple smaller boards put together. I
liked that look. Will this have an impact on the sound absorption or will they effectively act as one big
panel?
Bertrand
Yes, Roxul seems to have changed their marketing name for the product. I believe that
now it is called “Rockboard 80” or something like that. You can use an equivalent board
as long as the absorption coefficients are similar across the spectrum. The
Comfortboard IS seems to be good too. I have also heard that in some areas the Owens
Corning products or Johns Manville products are cheaper, so try those too. There is
bound to be an insulation supply warehouse in your area and I am sure they have a
There is no problem with butting smaller tiles together to make a nice design. Sound
absorption is all about surface area covered, the size of individual pieces do not matter
much.
Send me photos when you are done and I will post them to the site!
capable of ordering Roxul Rockboard 80 for $70 per pack (6 sheets per pack). Someone at the pro
desk has to call their distributor to get it. not at all a difficult process, but sometimes only a manager
35 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
The caveat is that it can take 2-4 weeks because US distributors don’t stock it, so it comes from
Canada and they wait until they have a truckload of product to include it on, at which point it gets in
HD’s hands and ships to the store for free. This is not a solution for quick delivery, but beats the heck
out of $30+ shipping per pack that I’ve seen at most online vendors.
Added bonus – Home Depot’s frequently available 10% of coupons work for this, dropping the price
I purchased several packs today (8/28), looking forward to trying this design out! Thanks for all the
great info!
Thanks, this is very helpful! By far the most common question I get is how to find the
good to know that Home Depot is an option too! Send me some photos when you are
-Eric
(See http://www.roxul.com/files/RX-NA_EN/pdf/Brochures%20and%20Sell%20Sheets/Industrial
/ProRox%20Board%20Products%20Brochure_web%20version%2005202014.pdf)
to make our sound absorbing panels but still have one item left.
We are planning on hanging the finished artwork with sound absorbing materials behind the artwork,
a small distance from the wall on standoffs or on cables away from the wall. Will these sound
absorbing panels do the trick. We have long 12 foot high hallways and very echo laden break and
36 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Also, have you had any material changes since 2012 that you’ve found work well?
EJ
I live in a basement suit and share stairs going up with my upstairs neighbors, there is no door from
my living room area to the stairs and I do podcasting/they have loud hockey game nights.
If I was to build one of these panels door size(or larger than the door like a door panel), would if cut
I called Roxul. Their specifications engineer Abraham Sebastian returned my call (while he was on
vacation, no less). The upshot is that they no longer publish ASTM acoustical co-efficients since a
global rebranding of the name RHT80 to SL960 (I presume because the product is marketed for
thermal applications), but he confirmed the product is “identical” save for the name. So nice to have
a company that actually takes the time to put you in contact with someone who will answer your
question. That alone makes me want to buy Roxul. The lower cost and similar or better performance
when compared to Owens Corning and Johns Mansville is the other factor.
While the Rockboard is marketed for sound absorption, check the specs versus RHT80.
The Lowe’s here can find these products at a distributor, but being an “industrial product”, cannot
order it into store, so go to the manufacturer’s website and get distributors directly from Roxul, OC or
JM.
37 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
names and estimated costs. That’s odd that they wouldn’t publish the ASTM C423
Four Steps to the Best Listening Room | erinsoundatx March 8, 2016 at 2:28 pm ·
[…] just as well as the store bought versions. It’s really all about the foam you use. I found these great
instructions on […]
Build Your Own House And Inside Games Online March 22, 2016 at 1:19 am ·
[…] How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) – Also Check out our Complete Guide to Home
Theater Acoustics for more information, including where to place your acoustic panels. […]
make fabric covered acoustic panels, can I do some decorative painting with acrylic paint? I’m an
artist, and don’t care for the looks of plain or printed fabric..thanks!
the fabric. A non-permeable surface will be sound reflective (ie not absorptive) at high
frequencies. In practice, that limits quite a lot of options. You might try water-colors or
use products on fabrics used so that the fabric does not become reflective,
are there any fabrics that you can recommend that are better at absorption?
There are many blends of materials out there…. I was actually thinking about
some sort of fleece type material, however, before I do, wanted to get your
input.
38 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
it goes over what to look for. Basically, you want the fabric to be
it’s hard to have exact quiet hours but I want to keep noise levels down for my roommates and my
neighbors. Would a few of these panels on each wall of the living room make a decent difference for
Sorry, no. These panels will change the sound within your practice room, but will not
improve the sound insulation between your room and the adjacent space. You will need
to increase the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of the partition wall, which is no
cheap or easy task! That will involve a construction project to rebuild the walls or
floor/ceiling with materials and components that provide a higher sound transmission
loss performance.
frame, and is easily wall mountable. you could also wrap it in fabric, and it would have soft edges and
be much lighter.
Yes, these are all good options. There are many creative ways to achieve the acoustic
goals here. With the “artist canvas” make sure that the canvas is permeable as
39 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
over. The batts are 4″ thick, if I cut them in half would they be acceptable as material for acoustic
panels or should I buy another material? At 4″ would they work? Just looking at options to use what I
already have.
4″ Batt should be very absorptive. See if the publish sound absorption coefficients for it.
The problem is that it will be hard to work with since it does not hold its shape like the
more rigid panels do. If you build a good frame for it, it should work ok. The panels I
used were not very expensive and they still look good today. Before proceeding, check
with a local insulation supplier to see if you can get the more dense panels for a
reasonable price.
is a conference room that shares a wall and a door into our community library. Not a great
combination! Our troop will be learning about air quality, air pollution and noise pollution this year,
and we will need to create a community Take Action Project to earn our journey badges.
So, I’m wondering if building acoustic panels such as these would help deaden the sound between
our conference room and the library. If so, would we install them inside the room we meet, or on the
Nina Gilliam
Chaska, MN
So I am thinking of making a panel but I want to make it more decorative. I understand that the fabric
has to let sound waves through it. So logically, if you paint on top of the fabric the sound waves will
40 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
What about layering fabrics over each other and sewing a design onto it? Would having more than
one layer of fabric make them less useful for absorbing sound waves?
to exhale through the fabric and ensure air flows through. Painting the fabric will reduce
Sorry if this is a stupid question or has been answered… but is it completely necessary to build a
wooden frame?
rectangular shape. If you do not use a frame, it will look “loose” and will not be as
strong. Many commercial panels use a resin hardened edge instead of a frame. I tried to
do this for this project but it was much easier to build the frame.
the amount of noise pollution from the engine noises? They are a deep rumble, sometimes even
seem to vibrate the house a bit. Would this provide any sound reduction?
Thanks!
intended to improve sound quality for amplified audio sources within a room. From what
you describe, your neighbor may be in violation of local noise ordinances. I would start
there. This will likely be a costly renovation for you with heavy window glazings. Low
41 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
sharing your blog with more updates. It’s very interesting to read.
doesn’t hold the Roxul in place and now that my panels are all done, the Roxul is pushing out the
back under the tension of the fabric. My fabric has begun to wrinkle and lose it tautness. Anybody
else experience this? I was thinking some sort of “L” bracket on the frame but that will require taking
the panels apart which doesn’t sound like a good time. Any thoughts?
if you don’t get a good adhesion on the side. Let me know if you figure out a solution. I
think you also may not have made the frames tight enough to the insulation. It should
compress a bit when you screw them together. I will add a note about this to the article.
to the neighbors new dog that barks ALL night (cheaper than a new window). Works WAY better than
HOWEVER, I didn’t bother covering the Corning 703 rigid panels with anything, and now I’m
wondering if the tiny fibers are floating in the air for me and my spouse to inhale all night long…
should they be covered for health safety? I DID have lots of fibers stuck in my hands after installation,
Hope you answer, as it will be quite a job to undo installation and reinstall, but I will gladly do so if
The panels work well as a treatment to reduce reverberation, echoes and sound
reflections within a room. They are not very effective at improving the sound
transmission loss of a wall, however. That would likely require a construction project
whereby you add mass, insulation, and sound isolation elements to the wall structure.
Google this: “How to improve STC rating of a wall.” Oh, and yes, glass fiber insulation is
an irritant, so you should definitely cover those panels with fabric and use gloves and a
42 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Thanks for a great article, and awesome directions for a DIY absorption panel. And answering
questions for 5 years! Hopefully you can answer mine. I’m building a 4’x4′ vocal booth constructed of
3/4″ mdf about 6’8″ tall, with a solid core door that has a 21×24″ cutout for a slightly angled double
paned glass. On the inside, there are no parallel walls, my buddy has designed the booth with 2
additional slightly angled interior walls. I would upload the pic if I knew how!
I have read that a small room can sound bad if not treated correctly, maybe the “chest hump” sound
described, although I don’t know what that means. Also described as boxy. I am hoping to avoid this
effect. I once tried recording in a 18 gal storage container lined with egg crate that was sprayed with
adhesive. My buddy who is a pro at VO since 2001 said the audio sounded squashed. I have a pic of
that aforementioned contraption as well. So, all that being said, I was thinking of two walls having DIY
PANELS, (maybe 8 columns measured 6″ x 48″ with 4 per wall), and the other 2 walls covered with
acoustic wedge foam tile like Auralux, and maybe on the ceiling as well. Do you think this layout
might work in getting a clear vocal sound? Maybe some corner bass traps too?
Johnny G
Thanks, I try to help. The issue you have experienced in vocal booths is caused by two
factors. First, the small, square booth will exhibit modal resonances in the lower mid
range, right in the fundamental of a male voice (125 Hz to 250 Hz). Second, many of the
absorption materials people use to treat their vocal booth are not effective in that range.
Try to find a product or material that provides an absorption coefficient of 0.5 or better at
125 Hz, rising with frequency above that. The effectiveness of a porous absorber is a
interior walls of your booth with fabric-wrapped, 6 pcf, 2.0 inch thick, fiberglass board
and install these on 1.0 inch deep furring strips. The furring should add airspace of
approximately 1.0 inch between the fiberglass and the wall. For the ceiling, I would
recommend an NRC 1.00 ceiling tile suspended 400mm from the true ceiling, batt
insulation in the cavity above, and foam wedge panels adhered to the under surface
(visible). This would be the cheap and effective way to get where you want to go.
43 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
problematic. Please, if I have been told wrong let me know. The only reason I haven’t done this yet it
because I don’t want fire resistant material hanging in my house. Sounds weird, but it is unnatural
Yes, that is a very good point. I should note that flammability is a concern in the article.
There was a famous nightclub fire where the acoustic treatment caught on fire.
I recently constructed 12 absorption panels in your method for my basement’s trumpet practice
room. Roxul’s rockboard material isn’t easily available in Georgia, so after looking at the acoustical
data, I decided to use Roxul’s “Safe-n-Sound” batt material. It worked very well and was available at
my local Lowes; $46 for twelve panels of 3″Tx16″Wx47″H batts. I modified the dimensions of the
The material works very well acoustically and sits within the panels nicely. While it is not rigid, it does
have enough mechanical integrity to stay in shape within the frames, and has turned the ear-splitting
Aaron
Insulation (Rockwool RWA45) a little while ago, so i’m just wondering if the one i’ve got is good
I did some research and the thickness is 50mm/1.97 Inches and the density is 45KG/2.80 lbs.
44 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
It looks like that is about 3pcf insulation. It should be ok as long as there is no seal,
coating or impermeable facing on the surface. See if they can provide 6 PCF if possible,
I am trying to help a friend to make a concrete block room less “noisy”. It is approximately 30′ x 30′
with a 16 foot high ceiling. All walls are concrete block and the floor is poured concrete. We want to
make this room into a general purpose room for “Creatives”. Small music groups, practice room for
dancers, teaching room, meeting room, etc. Right now the rooms is just too “live”.
In the comments, I saw that 25% to 35% wall coverage should be sufficient for conversational use.
My question is, how high up the walls would I need to place panels? Would it likely work to just place
Sorry for the delayed response. You will need to add enough sound absorption to get
the decay time down to about 1.0 seconds. Here is an RT calculator that can help.
Since this isn’t really a critical listening space, I think your approach would be fine. 25%
to 30% coverage should help considerably and you will see a gradual improvement as
you add the panels. There is an art and a science to placing the panels and it changes
based on the use of the room. Locating the panels closer to the sound sources can
expose them to more sound pressure level. Also, distributing them throughout the room
increases their effective absorption. I would distribute them evenly throughout the room
and elevate them to about 8 ft just to protect them from hands, etc. There is also likely
to be a lot of “flutter echo” between your parallel walls with the high ceilings. So,
distributed placement on the upper walls would help with that too.
45 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
We recently moved into a new home and find a lot of noise, made primarily by our young children
banging toys, etc, travels and echos into the upper level through the entryway, as it is open to the
second level. I was thinking (hoping) that some number of these mounted on the upper walls of the
Thanks!
Thank you for a fantastic article. I just made a six pack of these for my 15’ x 15’ x 8’ game/movie
/music room and the results were amazing. I can now hear every speaker in my 7.1 AV system
distinctly. I use one panel as a bass trap on the subwoofer and there is no longer muddiness in the
sound. I listen to music I’ve been listening to for almost 50 years and hear new things I’ve never
heard before. And it was a really fun build. I would recommend spending $80 at Harbor freight tools
for a small compressor and stapler/nailer. It is much easier on your hands and goes much faster. Also
I’d recommend against using burlap which I used for four of the panels. It has an appealing texture
and blond or black color but can be difficult to make professional looking corners.
You guys taught me so much and dramatically increased my enjoyment of sound and music. A
thousand thanks.
Joe
Leave a Reply
Name *
Email *
46 de 47 12/01/18 10:05
How to Build Your Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) http://acousticsfreq.com/how-to-build-your-own-acoustic-panels/
Website
Post Comment →
Sound Absorption vs. Sound Joe B on How to Build Your Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ: How is NRC calculated? Mark M on How to Build Your Table of Contents
List of Noise Control Products Own Acoustic Panels (DIY) Acoustical Guide to Home
Panels (DIY)
47 de 47 12/01/18 10:05