There are several key advantages to using an acoustical wood panel or tile made with a MDF core and a veneer finish over a solid wood product.

Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is a high grade, composite material that is made from recycled wood fibers and resin with no added urea-formaldehyde.

MDF is more stable than solid wood and stands up better to changes in heat and humidity. MDF is considered a dimensionally stable product that will stay 

straight and true for the life of the product. 

Most recommendations when coating MDF are for two applications of oil or alkyd primer and then oil finish coatings.