noise-cancelling headphones

These headphones are wonderfully designed for the frequent traveler. They remove much of the low-frequency noise, which reduces the damage to the eardrum over time. They also allow an external sound source (airplane sound system, CD player, etc) to be heard with significantly less volume.

All of those features apply to all noise-canceling headphones. The Koss headphones excel in their wear-ability. Unlike many designs, the Koss headphones do not rest solely on the ears. Instead, they have foam shims that share the load between the ears and the head right above the ear. The result is a more comfortable design over a long period of time. On a short plane trip, it won't make a difference, nor will it on a commute to work. For those long-haul fights, however, it becomes crucial to its continued comfortable use.

The two AA batteries last for hours (the "low battery" indicator means only 30 hours remain) and are easy to replace. The two-prong adapter is ideal for most airline headsets, although through experience I've noticed some use a 1/4" phono jack, which I've now included in my kit.

If there was a picture of these headphones, you'd see what I mean. These headphones work by "passive" noise reduction - the pieces that fit over the ear are made of layers and layers of sound absorbing material. These monstrous pieces cover your ears and are pushed hard against your head by an imposing thick behind-the-neck piece which sports the word "KOSS" in large letters across it, so you feel like a billboard. An adjustable velcro two-piece headstrap holds the contraption in place so that its massive weight rests squarely on top of your head. I tried these at work and was mistaken for an air traffic controller. They reduce noise, but after wearing them about 1/2 hour I developed a splitting tension headache -> my neck could not hold up all the weight, and I felt like a vise had been applied to my temples. These are not made for personal use, but rather for industrial high-noise situations. Returned the same day.

I purchased the Koss QZ-5 Headphones.
THESE ARE NOT ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES!!!
I was duped. I believed these were active noise cancelling headphones, but they reduce noise by adding a ton of padding. These headphones are HUGE. The picture displayed is very decieving, only showing you the profile of the headphones. If you wear it and look in a mirror, you will look like a geeky mickey mouse. They stick out of the sides of your head making you look like a weirdo.

In addition to that, the sound quality is extremely poor. At the moment I am listening to the Fellowship of the Ring soundtrack, and any bass makes the headphones crackle. Bass performance is absolutely poor. Do not get these headphones, they are a waste of money. Do not get these headphones!