Some acoustic tiles are better at absorbing echoes within a room, some excel at stopping or blocking sound and others (called composite acoustic panels) do both.
Sound absorbing panels tend to be lighter products that may feel cushion-like to the touch. Capable of “softening” room surfaces, these panels suppress echoes in larger areas such as auditoriums, banquet halls and gymnasiums, so that everyone can understand speakers and enjoy musical events without straining to listen.