What Are the Disadvantages of Acoustic Wall Panels?

Acoustic wall panels have become a go-to solution for reducing echo, improving sound quality, and enhancing interior aesthetics in both residential and commercial spaces. While the benefits of acoustic panels — especially wood slat acoustic panels — are widely recognized, it’s also important to understand their limitations.

At Guangdong Liyin Acoustics Technology Co., Ltd. ( Leeyin , we believe in providing full transparency about our products. As a leading manufacturer and exporter of wood slat acoustic panels in China, we are committed to delivering high-quality, eco-friendly acoustic solutions with honest insights.

Leading Acoustic Wood Slat Panel Distributor


🔍 Common Disadvantages of Acoustic Wall Panels

1. Limited Soundproofing Capability

Acoustic panels absorb sound, but they do not fully block sound from traveling between rooms. If you're aiming for complete sound isolation (e.g., to stop noise from entering or leaving a space), you’ll need additional soundproofing materials such as mass-loaded vinyl, double-layered drywall, or insulation.

💡 Tip from Liyin: Our PET-backed wood slat panels are excellent at reducing echo and reverberation, but we always advise clients to combine them with soundproofing strategies for full isolation.


2. Higher Initial Cost for Quality Panels

High-performance acoustic panels made with sustainable materials like E0 MDF and recycled PET felt can cost more than low-quality foam alternatives. However, they offer better durability, safety, and aesthetic value.

💡 Why Choose Liyin: As a direct manufacturer with a 20,000 m² facility, we provide factory-direct pricing, custom finishes, and OEM/ODM services to ensure you get premium value without inflated costs.


3. Installation May Require Planning

For optimal acoustic performance, panel placement matters. Installing acoustic panels incorrectly — for example, placing them in random spots — may result in limited effectiveness. Additionally, installation on certain surfaces (e.g., concrete or glass) may require professional tools or adhesives.

💡 Liyin Solution: Our panels are designed for easy installation, whether you prefer glue, screws, or mounting systems. Our team also provides guidance on best practices for placement.


4. Wall Coverage Is Often Partial

Some users expect complete acoustic transformation with minimal panel coverage. In reality, you may need to treat 20–40% of wall surfaces for noticeable results, especially in larger or more echo-prone rooms.

💡 Expert Tip: Liyin offers acoustic design support for determining the ideal panel quantity and layout based on your room size and purpose.


5. Not Always Suitable for Humid Environments

Acoustic panels made with MDF may not be ideal for areas with excessive moisture (e.g., bathrooms or outdoor spaces), as long-term humidity exposure can affect the integrity of the wood core.

💡 Our Material Choice: We use E0-grade MDF combined with PET felt, ensuring low formaldehyde emissions and enhanced structural stability. For special projects, we can also offer custom water-resistant solutions.


🎯 Why These Disadvantages Shouldn’t Deter You

 

While there are some limitations, the advantages of acoustic wall panels far outweigh the drawbacks — especially when you choose a trusted supplier like Guangdong Liyin Acoustics Technology Co., Ltd. With the right planning and quality materials, you can create a space that is both acoustically optimized and visually stunning.

What is the Best Size for an Acoustic Panel?

When designing a space with acoustic panels, one of the most common questions is: What is the best size for an acoustic panel? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the purpose of the space, and the level of sound control needed. In this blog, we'll explore the considerations for choosing the right size for your acoustic panels and how Guangdong Liyin Acoustics Technology Co. Ltd., as a leading manufacturer of wood slat acoustic panels, can help you optimize your acoustics while enhancing your room’s aesthetics.

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Size for Acoustic Panels

 

  1. Room Size and Shape
    The dimensions of the room play a crucial role in determining the size of the acoustic panels you need. In larger rooms, bigger panels will be more effective in absorbing sound and reducing noise reverberation. Conversely, in smaller rooms, using too many large panels can overwhelm the space and negatively impact the aesthetic appeal.
    Key Tip: Measure the size of your walls and consider the room’s overall acoustics when determining panel sizes.

  2. Purpose of the Space
    The function of the room also influences the ideal size of acoustic panels. For example, in a home theater or studio, where high-quality sound control is essential, larger panels or multiple panels may be required. In contrast, in office spaces or conference rooms, smaller acoustic panels may suffice, focusing on controlling high-frequency noise like voices.

  3. Desired Acoustic Effectiveness
    Larger panels generally provide greater sound absorption, especially for low frequencies. If you’re trying to control noise from speakers, machinery, or a high-noise environment, larger panels or a higher quantity of panels may be necessary. Smaller panels are excellent for tackling mid to high frequencies, such as voice clarity in an office or meeting room.
    Tip: For low-frequency absorption, consider a larger panel or bass traps. For high-frequency noise control, smaller panels are typically sufficient.

  4. Aesthetic Considerations
    Acoustic panels also serve as an aesthetic element in a space. Larger panels can cover more surface area, making them ideal for larger spaces or open-plan areas. However, if you're looking for a more minimalist or less intrusive design, smaller panels or wood slat acoustic panels in specific configurations can add both functionality and visual appeal.
    Liyin Expertise: Our Natural Oak Acoustic Slat Panels are a perfect blend of acoustic performance and stylish design, offering various sizes and customization options to suit your aesthetic preferences.

  5. Cost and Budget
    Larger panels often come at a higher cost. For those on a budget, combining multiple smaller panels to cover a larger area may be an effective solution without compromising on acoustic performance. Keep in mind that larger panels tend to have better sound absorption properties, but the most cost-effective approach may involve selecting panels with the best performance-to-cost ratio.

 

Common Sizes for Acoustic Panels

 

  1. Standard Panel Sizes

    • 24” x 48” (60 x 120 cm): This is a typical size for wall-mounted acoustic panels and is commonly used in commercial and residential spaces. These panels are versatile and can be installed in various configurations to cover a significant portion of the wall.
    • 24” x 24” (60 x 60 cm): These smaller panels are ideal for spaces requiring a more minimalist approach or areas where wall space is limited. They are also effective when used in combination with other panels to provide targeted sound control.
  2. Custom Sizes
    At Guangdong Liyin Acoustics Technology Co. Ltd., we offer customized wood slat acoustic panels tailored to your exact specifications. Our Natural Oak Acoustic Slat Panels come in various sizes, shapes, and finishes, allowing us to create the perfect acoustic solution for your space. Custom sizing ensures that the panels fit seamlessly into your design vision while optimizing acoustics.

 

 OEM Natural Oak Acoustic Slat Panels

 

Why Choose Guangdong Liyin Acoustics Technology Co. Ltd.?

 

As a leading manufacturer of wood slat acoustic panels, we specialize in creating high-quality acoustic solutions that deliver both sound control and aesthetic appeal. Our Natural Oak Acoustic Slat Panels are designed to absorb sound effectively while providing a decorative element to any space. With over 20,000 square meters of modern manufacturing facilities, we strictly adhere to international quality standards, ensuring that every product we produce is of the highest quality.

Key Benefits of Choosing Our Acoustic Panels:

  • Superior Sound Absorption: Our panels are made from top-quality materials like MDF and PET polyester felt, providing superior acoustic performance.
  • Customization: We offer a range of sizes, finishes, and designs, allowing you to tailor your panels to meet the specific needs of your space.
  • Sustainable Design: Our products are made with environmentally friendly materials, ensuring that your space remains stylish and eco-conscious.
  • Easy Installation: Our acoustic panels are designed for simple installation, reducing downtime and labor costs.

 

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Size for Your Acoustic Panels

 

The best size for your acoustic panels depends on your room size, the function of the space, and the level of acoustic control you need. Whether you're designing a home theater, office space, or conference room, the right panel size can significantly improve the sound quality and aesthetic of your space. At Guangdong Liyin Acoustics Technology Co. Ltd., we offer a wide range of customizable acoustic wood slat panels to suit your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss how we can help improve your space with high-quality, stylish acoustic solutions.