Acoustical treatment involves the use of sound dampening panels to adjust a room's natural acoustics with the aim of controlling the reflection of sound waves, according to Sweetwater Music Instruments & Pro Audio.
Recording studios use acoustical treatment to control acoustics during recording or editing sessions. Home theaters also make use of acoustical treatments.
Some panels absorb the sound waves, while others spread the remaining reflections evenly around the room. "Bass trap" absorbers can dampen bass frequencies.
Acoustical treatment panels consist of foam rubber shaped into wedges, pyramids, flat panels or columns. Bass traps have a wedge shape so they can fit into corners.
Individual rooms have their own particular sound dampening needs. Generally, bass traps go into the room corners, while recording studios use a mix of absorbers and diffusers hung on the walls.