While headphones have always been used to withdraw from the outside world, now you can block it out entirely with noise-canceling headphones. These high-tech devices sense ambient noise and essentially block it out by sending an opposite wave form into your ear. Some work well, others not so good. Here are the noise-canceling headphones that TSS staffers tried out. Please note that these comments are entirely un-scientific – this is simply how the ‘phones sounded to us; they were not tested in the Lab. 

 
Sennheiser PXC250 ($149.99)
They felt that the PXC250s did a good job of taking out the ambient noise, and sounded good with music, but the headphones themselves were uncomfortable. Also, Alex noted a decided lack of style: "At $150, they should look cool. These look like poo."

Sony MDR-NC20 ($179)
These seemed to be the best to Kevin and Alex in canceling ambient sound and in music playback for their price range. The guys said that these are definitely worth the extra $30 over the cheaper Sony model, and if you can't quite afford the 300 clams for the Bose, then these are the ones to get.

Sony MDR-NC11 ($149)
The guys thought that the sound quality went down with the noise-canceling function on, and the white noise was obvious without music playing. A $20 pair of regular Sony headphones sound better, according to Sarah, who didn't like these at all.

Aiwa HP-CN6 ($49)
Yes, these might be the cheapest, but they also sound like it, too. You may think you’re saving money by purchasing these, but you’re actually wasting it – you’d be better off with a regular pair of headphones. "Plus, nobody has a square head," said Alex, referring to the angular nature of the head piece. "I don't know why they do that."

The Boom Quiet ($249)
 
This company creates headsets specifically for when you need to talk on your cell phone in a noisy environment. It works well, "But it looks like you're driving a helicopter," observed Alex.

Bose QuietComfort 2 ($299)

These were the best o' the best -- comfy, great sound, and excellent noise-cancelling. And they come with a cool carrying case which is handy for air travel. "Lots of business people use these," said Alex. "They are worth the price." But the Sony NC20 comes close if you don't agree.

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For consumer reviews of these headphones and many others, you can find opinions from hardcore headphone fanatics at headwize.com and from more casual listeners at audioreview.com.