Soundproof box: the complete guide to choosing the right pod

As workplaces open up more and more, finding a quiet space to focus, take confidential calls, or hold meetings has become a real challenge. The soundproof box is now the go-to solution for creating calm zones within modern workspaces.

This guide helps you understand and choose the right acoustic pod for your needs, covering the different types, technical specifications, selection criteria, and practical uses.

To remember

Up to 31.1 dB of ISO 23351-1 certified insulation
Island Solo: 30.2 dB (Class A). Island Desk: 31.1 dB (Class A). Island Duo: 28.7 dB (Class B). Island Quattro: 29.8 dB (Class B). Tested to AFNOR standards by COFRAC-certified laboratories.
For 1 to 4 people, 1 to 2.5 m² footprint
Individual calls, interviews, team meetings: each size answers a specific need. Island Solo for quick calls, Island Desk for longer work sessions. Duo and Quattro for group meetings.
Installed in your office in under an hour
A standard power socket is all you need to plug in your acoustic pod. Delivered anywhere in Europe within a few weeks, assembly included.
Made in France, 5-year warranty
Origine France Garantie label, PEFC wood, Métisse® insulation. More than 4,000 customers, including Siemens, RATP Real Estate, and Qonto. 100-day trial, money back if not satisfied.

What is a soundproof box?

A soundproof box, also known as an acoustic pod or phone box, is an enclosed space designed to give optimal sound insulation in the workplace. These modular structures use specialised acoustic materials to significantly cut noise, both inside and outside the pod.

Modern acoustic pods use multi-layer panels combining acoustic foam, rock wool, and absorbent materials. This design achieves sound insulation of 25 to 35 dB of reduction, to ISO 23351-1.

These private spaces fit into open-plan offices, coworking spaces, call centres, and shared offices. They answer the growing need for concentration, privacy, and wellbeing at work.

The four main uses of an acoustic pod include:

  • Confidential phone calls
  • Tasks that need focus
  • Small-group meetings
  • Remote training sessions
  • Team brainstorming

Companies that install acoustic solutions generally see an improvement in team productivity.

The different types of acoustic box

Individual pods (1 person)

The 1-person pods, with a footprint of around 1 m², are designed for phone calls and individual focus. Fitted with quiet ventilation, automatic LED lighting, and power sockets, they give you the ideal environment for tasks that need concentration.

These models include advanced technology: screens, video conferencing systems, USB-A and USB-C ports. A particularly good fit for remote work and virtual meetings, these connected pods turn any open-plan office into a private office.

Collaborative pods (2 to 4 people)

The 2-person pods (around 2 m²) suit one-to-one meetings, HR interviews, and brainstorming sessions. They usually come with two comfortable seats and a shared work surface with stronger connectivity.

The 4-person models (around 2.5 m²) are designed for team meetings, client presentations, and training. Their stronger sound insulation keeps conversations private, even during lively discussions.

At Siemens, installing acoustic pods brought a satisfaction score of 4.6/5 from employees, with growing demand for additional spaces. B Corp and Origine France Garantie certification reflects the quality and environmental commitment of leading manufacturers.

Pod type
Island Solo
Island Desk
Island Duo
Island Quattro
Floor space
1 m²
1 m²
2 m²
2.5 m²
Capacity
1 person
1 person
2 people
4 people
Main use
Quick calls
Focus work
Confidential meetings
Collaborative work

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Get our product guide by email. A clear, complete document with the weight, dimensions, and available options for our soundproof boxes.

Download the product guide

Key technical specifications

Sound insulation performance

Acoustic performance is measured in decibels (dB) of sound reduction. Class B pods offer 25 to 30 dB of insulation, enough for most office uses. This certification guarantees an insulation quality verified by independent bodies to ISO 23351-1.

The panels use PEFC materials (certified wood), combined with high-density acoustic foam and absorbent fabrics. This combination absorbs voice frequencies (500-2000 Hz) effectively, creating an environment suited to concentration and privacy.

Built-in features

A quiet ventilation system (under 35 dB) renews the air users need for comfort. Automatic LED lighting switches on with presence detection, cutting energy use while creating a pleasant working atmosphere.

Power sockets, Ethernet, and USB ports let you connect laptops, screens, and video conferencing equipment. Some models include touchscreens for booking and managing spaces, making it easier to organise teamwork.

Work With Island pods reach 31.1 dB of sound reduction, with automatic ventilation and adaptive lighting. These acoustic tests follow AFNOR standards, carried out by COFRAC-certified laboratories.

Standard equipment includes:

  • Quiet automatic ventilation
  • LED lighting with presence detection
  • Power sockets
  • USB-A and USB-C ports
  • Ergonomic work shelf
  • Adjustable feet for levelling

Benefits of acoustic pods in the workplace

Installing soundproof boxes brings a significant improvement in productivity. Fewer noise interruptions support concentration and the quality of work, especially for complex tasks that need sustained attention.

Being able to step away from ambient noise reduces stress and auditory fatigue. A large majority of users report better comfort at work after acoustic pods are installed, changing their day-to-day office experience.

Sensitive conversations (HR, sales, legal) benefit from insulation that protects confidentiality. This acoustic security is especially valued in banking and consulting, where discretion matters most.

Unlike traditional meeting rooms, acoustic pods install directly in the open-plan office, making the most of available space. Their modularity allows reconfiguration as the company's needs evolve.

"What our employees told us: noise is tiring and wears you down. They need moments to recharge, to pause and step away. The pod lets you fully step away, into a completely quiet atmosphere." - WiiSmile customer testimonial

Feedback from more than 4,000 equipped customers, including Siemens, RATP Real Estate, and Qonto, confirms these measurable benefits on the ground.

Choosing a soundproof box: what to check

Assessing your needs

Defining the main use determines the best choice: phone calls (1-person pod), confidential meetings (2-person), or collaborative sessions (4-person). This assessment directly shapes the size and equipment you need to get the most out of the pod.

For heavy use (over 6 hours a day), favour models with stronger ventilation and durable materials. Occasional use allows for more affordable versions, while keeping the essential acoustic performance.

Technical constraints

Measuring the exact location matters: ceiling height, floor space, and access for installation in particular. Allow 50 cm of clearance around the pod for ventilation, to get the best performance and comfort. All the technical details of our pods are available in our product guide.

Check that a power socket is available nearby, to make installation easier.

Budget and financing options

Prices range from €3,990 (1-person pod) to €9,990 (equipped 4-person model). For tighter budgets, refurbished pods are available through the "Work With Me Again" programme, with a manufacturer warranty.

Sales and customer service teams particularly value these quiet spaces dedicated to their calls. French manufacturing guarantees quality and traceable materials.

Installation and maintenance of acoustic pods

Installing an acoustic pod usually takes a few hours, depending on the model. The prefabricated parts go together with no major construction work, allowing immediate use with minimal disruption to your team.

Checking the floor is level (5mm tolerance), that there's access for moving the parts in, and that power is nearby makes the process easier. Adjustable feet compensate for minor unevenness, ensuring a stable, lasting installation.

Maintenance is limited to cleaning surfaces (fabric, glass). The materials used resist wear and keep their acoustic properties over time, keeping maintenance costs low.

Manufacturers typically offer 2 to 5 years of warranty on structural parts and 1 year on electronic equipment. A preventive maintenance service can be added to extend the pod's life and maintain performance.

"Work With Island's great strength is being able to respond, from sales all the way to logistics, to install the pods smoothly and simply." - Maxime Cohendet, Co-founder at Wefy Group

The exceptional customer satisfaction rate reflects the quality of these installations.

Work With Island supports your project

For 8 years, Work With Island has designed and manufactured high-quality acoustic pods, certified Origine France Garantie. Our team supports more than 4,000 customers in optimising their workspaces.

What sets us apart:

  • B Corp certified in 2025, reflecting our environmental and social commitment
  • French manufacturing with locally sourced components
  • 100-day trial to test the pod in real conditions
  • 4.9/5 customer rating

Siemens, RATP Real Estate, Qonto, Personio, and Seedtag trust our solutions to improve their employees' wellbeing. These references reflect our expertise and our ability to meet the needs of large companies.

Looking for an acoustic solution that performs and lasts? Contact Work With Island for a personalised quote and see how our pods can transform your workspace.

Download our product guide

Want to know more? Fill in this form and get all the key information about our pods: weight, dimensions, prices and more.

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Frequently asked questions about soundproof boxes

How effective is an acoustic pod at reducing noise?

Work With Island acoustic pods reduce noise by 28.7 to 31.1 dB, to ISO 23351-1. This performance effectively isolates conversations and significantly cuts ambient noise.

How do you choose a soundproof box?

It depends on the intended use (individual calls, meetings), the space available, your budget, and the equipment you want. Look at your needs in terms of capacity (1 to 4 people) and features (screen, connectivity).

How much does an office acoustic pod cost?

Prices range from €3,990 for a 1-person pod to €9,990 for an equipped 4-person model. Refurbished pods are also available at a lower price, with a manufacturer warranty. This cost usually includes delivery, installation, and set-up by specialist technicians.

How do you install an acoustic box?

Installation takes a few hours, depending on the model. The prefabricated pods go together with no major construction work, needing only a level floor, access for moving the parts in, and power nearby.

What are the benefits of an acoustic pod in an open-plan office?

Acoustic pods improve productivity, reduce noise-related stress, guarantee privacy for conversations, and make better use of space, with no need for major fit-out work.

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