noise-cancelling headphones

I had a pair of Panasonic noise cancelling headphones for a while, model RP-HC100; certainly not the cheapest, but at the time they looked like the best noise cancelling set next to Bose. Then the Panasonic headphones had problems with static in one ear, and finally stopped working. It was actually a good thing though, because these Sennheisers absolutely blow those panasonics out of the water. The sound quality is indescribably better; everything sounds good on these headphones. And the noise cancellation circuitry is far better than what was in the panasonics; it seems to block out a wider range of background noise without taking away from the music. And just the headphones without the noise cancelling turned on block out a good deal of noise. They're extremely comfortable with the padded ears and headband, and compact, too. Before, I might have hesitated about spending [the money] on a pair of headphones, but after using these for a few weeks every day on the subway and buses, I have to say I'd definitely pay for them again. One note: the first pair I bought had a similar problem to the panasonics, with a noticable hiss in the left ear with noise reduction on; I simply returned them to J&R for another pair and they've been working great.

I've used the headsets for about 20 flights so far. I chose them in preference to the Bose noise-cancelling headphones because of 1) cost, 2) comfort, and 3) sound quality. They proved to be very convenient (for music listening, as well as noise cancellation). Not nearly as good as suppressing noise as Bose set, but this is mostly due to construction--the Sennheiser are light and fit over the ear; the Bose are heavier and surround the ear. On the other hand, these are more comfortable to wear (less sweating, and can also hear the flight attendant).

The sound quality is very good, and it works even without batteries.

My biggest complaint is the switch broke after 6 months (I have to poke it with a toothpick to operate): it uses a very thin plastic connector. I wish this part, which moves all the time was a bit sturdier.

--inotherworlds.com

I like this unit, it was a real help on a trip with some very inconsiderate people in the vicinity. With noise-cancelling on, it really helped pick out movie dialogue- it completely enhances your enjoyment of films on a plane. It also really improves the sound of music too, although on the flight I was on even the lowest volume setting was way too loud is some cases. This unit could use an on-board volume control to combat this. The cigar shape noise cancelling thing is kind of a pain, particularly when someone wants out in the aisle and you have an extra cord to fiddle with. But it's not that bad.

The unit isn't perfect, and it doesn't seal out all noise by a long shot, but when you turn on the music or movies it goes a long way toward helping you forget that you are surrounded by a hundred strangers. You also aren't battling engine noise to hear dialogue. It makes a big difference and it will be going with me on all future flights. I had no problems with pressure or ill feeling, even after wearing it for 4hrs at a time on an int'l flight.