Acoustically transparent fabrics
Our acoustic fabrics are suited for a wide range of applications.
Including sound-absorbing screens, panels, pods, acoustic partitions, wall systems and other specialist acoustic solutions.
They provide visual appeal with genuine acoustic properties, which is why they’re designed to be seen but not heard.
Understanding acoustically transparent fabrics
The acoustics of a room are one of the most important, yet often overlooked, features of an environment. As with light, when sound hits a surface, part of its energy is absorbed and part of it is reflected into the room. So, just as we may install a blind in front of a window to control brightness, acoustic solutions effectively manage sound and the effect it has on a room.
Acoustically transparent fabrics are designed to allow sound waves to pass through without interference, making them ideal for applications such as speaker covers, acoustic panels, and other interior solutions where sound quality is paramount. These fabrics ensure that sound is transmitted clearly, without reflection or absorption, maintaining the integrity of the audio experience. One of our most well known acoustic fabrics is Carlow which has been used for this very purpose by several audio hifi manufacturers.
Tested for transparency
To demonstrate the extent to which a fabric possesses acoustic properties, it is tested under ISO 10534 Part 2. This test measures the sound absorption of a fabric when it is applied to a 4in thick sound-absorbing foam.
The results are then compared to the absorption of the foam in isolation, therefore demonstrating how well the fabric will complement the performance of an acoustic panel.
The data will illustrate that the sound passes through a transparent fabric and is absorbed by the foam, or that it is partially absorbed by the fabric before passing through to the foam.
A variety of style and substance
In addition to the synthetic fabric Carlow, which we weave from our in-house produced air-textured polypropylene yarn, we have a broad selection of post-consumer recycled polyesters such as Lucia, Quest and RePlay Zero.
There are wool felts, like Blazer and Synergy, and a wool effect non-woven called Sonus. Our wool-flax fabrics Main Line Flax and Main Line Twist are also used extensively for acoustic applications in a wide range of interior settings.
To view our selection of acoustic fabrics, click here.
FAQs
Acoustically transparent fabrics are specially designed materials that allow sound waves to pass through without interference. They are used to cover acoustic panels, speakers, and other sound-absorbing surfaces while maintaining optimal sound clarity.
These fabrics are engineered with a structure that minimally reflects or absorbs sound waves. This ensures that sound passes through them to the underlying acoustic material, enhancing the overall performance of sound-absorbing systems.
Acoustically transparent fabrics are commonly used for:
- Speaker covers
- Acoustic panels and baffles
- Partitions and room dividers
- Wall systems and ceiling installations
- Home theatres and recording studios
The main benefits include:
- Enhanced sound clarity by allowing sound waves to pass through effectively
- Aesthetic flexibility with a range of colours and textures
- Durable and long-lasting design
- Compatibility with various acoustic applications
Yes, many of Camira’s acoustically transparent fabrics comply with fire safety standards such as Crib 5 and BS 5852, ensuring they are suitable for commercial and public spaces.
Camira offers a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. We also offer bespoke print solutions and customization options are available to meet specific design and branding requirements.
Cleaning our fabrics is simple:
- Vacuum regularly to remove dust.
- Wipe with a damp cloth using soap and water or use proprietary upholstery shampoo.
- For deeper cleaning use bleach or alcohol.
Full details can be found in our cleaning and disinfection guide.
Many of our fabrics are manufactured using sustainable processes and materials. They also meet certifications for environmental friendliness, ensuring a low impact on the planet.
We provide detailed technical specifications for our acoustic fabrics which can be found within the technical specification section on all of our acoustic product pages.
These fabrics are widely used in:
- Office interiors
- Hospitality and leisure spaces
- Educational institutions
- Public spaces such as cinemas, theatres and auditoriums
- Home entertainment systems and music studios
No, acoustically transparent fabrics are designed to maintain sound quality by allowing sound to pass through without distortion or reflection.
Consider the following:
- The intended application (e.g., speaker covers, wall panels)
- The desired color and texture to match your design
- Acoustic performance requirements
- Fire safety certifications
To view our selection of acoustic fabrics, click here.
Our fabrics are available to buy directly via our website. If you are working on a large commercial project, please contact us for more information.