Hexagon Panels For Walls - Do They Work?
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In recent years, hexagon-shaped acoustic panels have gained popularity as an aesthetically pleasing and effective solution for improving sound quality in various spaces. With their unique shape and versatility, these panels have become a favorite choice for home recording enthusiasts, streamers, content creators, and home theater folks.
The question needs to be asked; do hexagon panels truly live up to the hype? In this post, we will take a look at the pros and cons of using hexagon-shaped acoustic panels for walls and evaluate their effectiveness for enhancing acoustics.
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the primary reasons for the popularity of hexagon panels is their visually striking design. The geometric shape adds a modern and eye-catching element to any room. You can mix colors and create cool designs and concept in your space.
Whether you're aiming for a contemporary vibe or a minimalist aesthetic, hexagon panels can be a stylish addition to your space. Additionally, their modular nature allows for creative arrangements and patterns, offering flexibility in design.
Sound Absorption
Hexagon panels, like other acoustic panels, are designed to absorb sound waves and reduce unwanted reflections and reverberations. The felt material converts sound energy to heat with friction.
Check out the absorption ratings for 9mm thick hexagon panels below.Â
When strategically placed on walls, these panels can help minimize echo and improve the overall acoustic environment. It's important to note that the effectiveness of hexagon panels is primary in the higher frequency range; this is perfect for echo reduction. However, if you need full frequency absorption, hexagon panels can be paired with bass traps to meet your needs.Â
Also, the coverage area is important to consider. If you have a severe amount of echo in your room you most likely have a lot of flat, hard surfaces. To reduce the reverberation time to a proper level you will need a decent amount of coverage.Â
Not sure how much coverage you need?Â
Versatility and Placement
Hexagon panels offer versatility in placement allowing you to customize the acoustic treatment according to your specific needs. They can be installed in various configurations making it easy to spot treat reflection points.
Depending on your room's characteristics, you can experiment with different panel arrangements to find the most effective solution. It's advisable to consider the size of your space, the position of speakers, and the location of reflective surfaces when determining the placement of hexagon panels.
Combination with Other Treatments
Hexagon panels can be used in conjunction with other acoustic treatments for enhanced sound control. Combining them with bass traps, diffusers, or corner absorbers can provide a more comprehensive treatment solution. Each treatment type serves a specific purpose, and by utilizing a combination, you can target different aspects of sound control and achieve optimal results.Â
Check out more acoustic panels and corner solutions!
Considerations and Limitations
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Another limitation is installation. You may not want to ruin your walls by glueing the panels directly to your wall.Â
If you do not want to leave the walls with residue from adhesive or holes from push pins then your best bet would be the 3M command strips for hanging pictures. These can be peeled off without leaving residue behind on the wall. However, note that 3M command strips cannot be used with all brands of hexagon panels.Â
Another cool technique is to mount the hexagon panel to a piece of plywood, thick cardboard, or coroplast board with adhesive and then, rest or hang the assembled panel on the wall. This not only saves your walls from destruction, but it also gives you the freedom to move the panels around for sound testing or take them with you when you move. I attached a diagram of what this would look like.