There is an endless selection of cost effective acoustic panels on offer to the market today. At SONIO, we are proud to work with some great brands and manufacturers to bring stylish, innovative and effective acoustic products to the UK market. Sound absorption is an important aspect of indoor spaces, as it helps control noise levels and improves overall acoustic comfort. In this article, we'll explore our top 3 cost-effective acoustic panels that offer high-quality sound absorption without breaking the bank. These panels are Autex Quietspace, Ecophon Solo, and SilentSpace Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Panels. These cheap acoustic panels can transform the sonic environment in almost any interior situation!

What is an acoustic panel?

The term 'acoustic panel' is incredibly broad, but the basic definition is; a sound absorbing panel designed to mitigate excess reverberation and absorb background noise and restore comfort.

When to use acoustic panels?

Acoustic treatment is often essential in certain environments. Studios, theatres, offices and meeting rooms almost always benefit from some level of acoustic treatment. An untreated room will experience high reverberation times and interference on video calls or audio recordings for podcasting or streaming. A few correctly placed panels can make a big difference. It is important to note, that acoustic panels will not keep sound out!

How many acoustic panels do I need?

Every space is different and there isn't necessarily a set rule to solve the problem. Our panels can be installed in most spaces. Generally, some is better than none and the first panels added to the space will make the biggest impact. Try adding a few Class A wall panels and see how the space changes.

There are some guidelines available for spaces such as open plan offices. We have an article detailing the British Standards for Open Plan Office acoustics.

In the most general terms, covering approx 30% of the surface area with absorption will make a significant improvement. For more rules around sound absorption, check out this article from Resonics.

 

Top 3 Cost Effective Acoustic Panels 

For some people, just solving the acoustic problem is the number one priority. With such a wide range of selection, it can be confusing when shopping for a product that will actually just do the job required. For the most cost effective solutions, we recommend Class A absorbers which will give you the most bang for your buck including

1. SilentSpace Wall or Ceiling Panels
2. Ecophon Solo
3. Autex Quietspace 

 

SilentSpace Fabric Wrapped Panels

The SilentSpace Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Panel is a cost-effective solution for those looking to improve indoor acoustics. Made from a combination of high-density fiberglass and fabric, these panels are designed to absorb sound waves effectively, reducing noise levels and improving overall acoustic comfort.

One of the key benefits of the SilentSpace Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Panel is its versatile design, which allows it to be used in a wide range of environments, including offices, homes, and other indoor spaces. Additionally, it is easy to install, with a range of mounting options available, and its fabric wrapped provides a stylish and attractive finish that can complement any interior design.

For wall applications, we offer the SilentSpace Wall Panels starting from around £80 per panel! We also offer these as ceiling rafts starting from £124.

 

These panels are a fantastic option for wall or ceiling applications. SilentSpace panels can be custom made to any size, and wrapped in an endless choice of fabrics. For simple purchases, select from the Camira Sonus or Camira Lucia fabric colours. The 40mm panels offer Class A sound absorption for the best acoustic treatment possible.

Ecophon Solo

The Ecophon Solo Acoustic Panel is a highly effective sound-absorbing panel that is designed to improve indoor acoustics. Made from glass wool, these panels are environmentally friendly and offer excellent sound absorption qualities. They are also easy to install, with a range of mounting options to choose from.

Solo is a free hanging unit, offering high level design possibilities. Manufactured from 40mm compressed glass wool, they are a common product that can be used in almost any environment. Three different suspension systems offer opportunities to create several layers and angles. Suitable when the room volume should be maintained or when it's not possible to install a wall-to-wall ceiling.

They are offered as Circles, Squares or Rectangular panels allowing you to mix and match to meet the requirements of your project.

For a cost effective option, we offer a 2 pack of Ecophon Solo Square including the fixings for £329!

One of the key benefits of the Ecophon Solo Acoustic Panel is its ability to absorb sound waves across a wide frequency range, making it suitable for a variety of environments, including offices, homes, and other indoor spaces. Additionally, it has a high fire rating and is resistant to mold and mildew, making it a durable and long-lasting investment.

Autex Quietspace

Quietspace Panel is a discrete, high-performance acoustic treatment engineered to absorb a minimum of 85% of the sound energy it meets—perfect for reducing reverberation and echo in spaces with high noise levels. Designed to blend into any interior environment, Quietspace Panel is available in black, white, or gray.

Autex Quietspace Acoustic Panels are made from 100% polyester fiber and are an excellent option for those looking for a cost-effective solution for excess noise. These panels are lightweight, easy to install, and come in a range of colors to match your interior design.

These panels start from £211.50 per sheet.

One of the key benefits of Autex Quietspace Acoustic Panels is their ability to absorb sound waves effectively, reducing noise levels and creating a more comfortable environment. Additionally, they are fire-resistant and have excellent durability, making them a great long-term investment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Autex Quietspace Acoustic Panel, the Ecophon Solo Acoustic Panel, and the SilentSpace Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Panel are all excellent options for those looking for cost-effective solutions to improve indoor acoustics. Whether you're looking for improved sound absorption in an office, home, or other indoor space, each of these panels offers unique benefits and features that make them stand out in the market. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and budget, so be sure to carefully consider all of your options before making a final decision.

 

Contact us if you have any questions.