Title: Anyone else feel awkward talking to their TV?
That’s actually a great point about the panels blending in more than people expect. I’ve run into similar resistance—folks worry anything “acoustic” will look like a recording booth, but it really doesn’t have to. If you’re careful with placement and color, you can make them almost disappear.
Here’s how I usually approach it: First, I’ll walk around the space and clap or talk at normal volume to figure out where the echo is strongest. Then, I’ll suggest starting with just a couple of panels in those spots—no need to cover every wall. Matching the paint or even going for a subtle pattern can help them feel intentional, not clinical.
And honestly, after a week or two, most people forget they’re even there. The only time anyone notices is when they realize their voice assistant finally understands them without repeating everything twice... which is a win in my book. It’s not a cure-all, but it does make open spaces feel less like you’re shouting into a canyon.
Funny, I’ve had clients get hung up on the “recording booth” look too. But you’re right—
I’ve even used custom fabric wraps to match drapes or artwork, and people don’t notice unless I point them out. The improvement in clarity for voice assistants is real. Still feels a little odd talking to a TV, but at least I don’t have to yell across the room anymore... which is definitely an upgrade.“if you’re careful with placement and color, you can make them almost disappear.”
Totally get what you mean about the “recording booth” vibe—my partner was convinced our living room would look like a podcast studio. But honestly, after we tried matching the panels to the wall color, they just kind of faded into the background. I still feel a bit silly saying “Hey TV, turn on Netflix,” but not having to repeat myself three times is worth it. It’s weird at first, but you get used to it pretty quick.
I get the appeal of blending the panels in, but I’ve actually gone the other way—left them exposed and kind of leaned into the “techy” look. I figure if you’re going to have smart stuff everywhere, might as well own it. As for talking to the TV, I still find myself just grabbing the remote half the time. Maybe I’m old school, but sometimes it feels faster than waiting for the voice command to register. Anyone else feel like the novelty wears off after a while?
As for talking to the TV, I still find myself just grabbing the remote half the time. Maybe I’m old school, but sometimes it feels faster than waiting for the voice command to register.
Yeah, same here. I tried using the voice thing for a while but honestly, it just feels awkward—especially if someone else is in the room. Half the time it doesn’t even get what I’m saying and then I have to repeat myself or just give up and use the remote anyway. The techy look is cool though, I’ll give you that. But talking to my TV? Still feels weird, not sure I’ll ever get used to it.