Hello everyone,
I am currently looking into room acoustics and came across some information about the KALLAX furniture piece from IKEA. Of course, I understand that it is primarily a shelving unit, but I am interested in whether it actually helps to dampen noise within a room. Specifically: Does anyone have experience or solid knowledge about whether the KALLAX shelf can function as a form of sound insulation?
I am not only referring to the classic sound absorption (like with specialized acoustic panels), but also whether the volume, materials, or perhaps the placement in the room can achieve noticeable noise reduction. I would like to know if a piece of furniture like this can truly have a positive effect on room acoustics or if this is just a myth or a misunderstanding.
Maybe those who have experimented with this could also share their subjective impressions. Thanks in advance!
I am currently looking into room acoustics and came across some information about the KALLAX furniture piece from IKEA. Of course, I understand that it is primarily a shelving unit, but I am interested in whether it actually helps to dampen noise within a room. Specifically: Does anyone have experience or solid knowledge about whether the KALLAX shelf can function as a form of sound insulation?
I am not only referring to the classic sound absorption (like with specialized acoustic panels), but also whether the volume, materials, or perhaps the placement in the room can achieve noticeable noise reduction. I would like to know if a piece of furniture like this can truly have a positive effect on room acoustics or if this is just a myth or a misunderstanding.
Maybe those who have experimented with this could also share their subjective impressions. Thanks in advance!
KALLAX does not effectively insulate against noise in a room. It is primarily a storage furniture piece. For real soundproofing, materials that absorb or block sound are needed – such as foam or specialized panels. KALLAX might have a slight indirect effect if fully filled, but not in a targeted way.
Deoma schrieb:
KALLAX doesn’t really insulate sound within a room.I agree with that, but I wouldn’t see it in such black-and-white terms! 🙂 A fully loaded KALLAX shelf can actually act as a diffuser, meaning it can somewhat break up or scatter harsh sound reflections—basically ‘quiet’ little helpers for the room’s acoustics.
However, you shouldn’t expect it to effectively block loud noises. For small apartments or work areas, it can make the sound a bit more pleasant if you fill the compartments with books, fabrics, or decorations. So maybe a slight improvement, but no substitute for a proper acoustic treatment. 😉
billy schrieb:
Does anyone have experience or solid knowledge about whether the KALLAX shelf can act as a form of sound insulation?The mechanical and physical properties of furniture like the KALLAX are simply not designed for sound insulation. The shelf is usually made of MDF or particleboard and does not have a porous surface that absorbs sound.
However, KALLAX can have a minimal influence on room acoustics through its volume and internal sound diffusion, especially when filled with softer materials such as fabric boxes. This effect is passive and minor, not a form of technical soundproofing.
For targeted sound reduction, specialized acoustic panels, diffusers, or absorbers are preferable. KALLAX can provide supplementary help but should not be used primarily as a soundproofing element.
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