In this video, Karra demonstrates what a bedroom studio sounds like with and without PSY Acoustics panels.

Mineral wool, renowned for its excellent Noise Reduction Coefficient rating (NRC), is a versatile and high-performance insulation material used extensively in the construction industry. NRC refers to a material’s ability to absorb and reduce sound, making mineral wool an exceptional choice for acoustic insulation in commercial and industrial buildings. Its dense and fibrous structure allows it to effectively dampen noise transmission, creating a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.

Noise Reduction Coefficients (NRC) are determined through standardized testing procedures to accurately assess acoustic performance. The most common method employed for NRC testing is the ASTM C423 standard, known as the Reverberation Room Method. In this method, a sample of the material under evaluation is placed in a specialized acoustic chamber called a reverberation room. A sound source emits a controlled, broad-spectrum noise signal within the room, and microphones measure the sound levels at various positions.

What is the difference between 2″ thick panels and 4″ thick?

The sonic difference between 2-inch thick and 4-inch thick acoustic panels is substantial and primarily relates to their capacity for sound absorption across different frequency ranges. Generally, 4-inch thick panels provide more extensive absorption capabilities, particularly in lower frequencies. This makes them highly effective in controlling bass frequencies and reducing room resonance, resulting in a more balanced and controlled acoustic environment.

On the other hand, 2-inch thick panels are better suited for managing mid and high-frequency sound reflections, making them valuable for improving speech intelligibility and controlling mid-range echoes. The choice between the two depends on the specific acoustic needs of the space; while 4-inch thick panels excel in studios or home theaters where deep bass control is crucial, 2-inch thick panels may suffice in offices or conference rooms primarily concerned with speech clarity and reducing high-frequency noise.

In this video, Karra demonstrates what a bedroom studio sounds like with and without PSY Acoustics panels.

Mineral wool, renowned for its excellent Noise Reduction Coefficient rating (NRC), is a versatile and high-performance insulation material used extensively in the construction industry. NRC refers to a material’s ability to absorb and reduce sound, making mineral wool an exceptional choice for acoustic insulation in commercial and industrial buildings. Its dense and fibrous structure allows it to effectively dampen noise transmission, creating a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.

Noise Reduction Coefficients (NRC) are determined through standardized testing procedures to accurately assess acoustic performance. The most common method employed for NRC testing is the ASTM C423 standard, known as the Reverberation Room Method. In this method, a sample of the material under evaluation is placed in a specialized acoustic chamber called a reverberation room. A sound source emits a controlled, broad-spectrum noise signal within the room, and microphones measure the sound levels at various positions.

What is the difference between 2″ thick panels and 4″ thick?

The sonic difference between 2-inch thick and 4-inch thick acoustic panels is substantial and primarily relates to their capacity for sound absorption across different frequency ranges. Generally, 4-inch thick panels provide more extensive absorption capabilities, particularly in lower frequencies. This makes them highly effective in controlling bass frequencies and reducing room resonance, resulting in a more balanced and controlled acoustic environment.

On the other hand, 2-inch thick panels are better suited for managing mid and high-frequency sound reflections, making them valuable for improving speech intelligibility and controlling mid-range echoes. The choice between the two depends on the specific acoustic needs of the space; while 4-inch thick panels excel in studios or home theaters where deep bass control is crucial, 2-inch thick panels may suffice in offices or conference rooms primarily concerned with speech clarity and reducing high-frequency noise.

On almost a daily basis, we have customers asking about the difference between acoustic panels made from Owens Corning 703 and the panels we make which are  made with mineral wool (rock wool). Many of them have visited different acoustic/AV forums and have heard “OC703 purists” saying that nothing works as well as 703/705. However, acoustical lab tests show that even though Owens Corning 703 and 705 are great products, their performance is nearly identical to mineral wool.

This makes sense, because when the thickness, fiber structure, and density of two materials are the same, the sound absorption will be the same too. Beyond that, you’re just being fed buzz words and hype.