In case you’re sensitive to noise and look for a discreet way to solve the problem in your apartment or office building, for example, the so-called Feltone [JP] might do the trick for you. Developed by Japan-based Tokyo Blinds, Feltone is a blind that can absorb sound and push down power noise by up to 60%.
Feltone, which is – as the name suggests – made of felt, looks like an ordinary blind and can be used on windows or walls – just like conventional blinds, without any special modifications. Tokyo Blinds says installation takes about two hours, with their solution costing up to 90% less than soundproof panels, for example.
The company explains:
This sound-absorbing blind works because sound is absorbed extremely well if there’s a rear air layer, 50-200 mm thick, between the blind slats and a wall, when the blind is attached in the usual way. We’ve utilized this phenomenon to achieve an effect like a sound-absorbing panel, by adding sound-absorbing felt.
Feltone (which is available in Japan only at this point) doesn’t come cheap: a 2mx2m blind costs $1,500. Since 2009, Tokyo Blinds has been marketing the blind to home theater owners, companies (for meeting rooms, server rooms etc.), families with children, etc.
This video, shot by Diginfonews in Tokyo, provides more insight (it’s in English):
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