Frequent travelers, public transit commuters, and even cube dwellers all have something in common. They all suffer from noise pollution. Learn how to cut out the ear clutter tonight on "Tech Live."
Today, noise pollution is called background noise, whatever that means. Regardless, whether it's the constant purr of a jet engine, the rattle of metal wheels on a track, or just your co-workers' idle chatter, Sony's MDR-NC11 noise-cancelling headphones are just the solution.
Dude, listen
The Sony headphones listen to the noise going on around you, and using circuitry built into the device, create sound that is the opposite of what's going on around you. So, as the wave of sound goes up around you, the wave of the sound in the headphone goes down, giving you virtual silence.
But the MDR-NC11s go a step beyond the technical, using something relatively low-tech: rubber plugs. The earphones work like earplugs, sealing themselves in and comfortably blocking most of the noise.
Once you get the bulk of your background noise away, you'll begin to notice two things. First, you can hear all the noises in your head, sniffles, breathing, clearing your throat, even your heartbeat if you're moving around. Don't panic, you're not drowning.
Now bring in the music and notice it sounds better than anything you've ever heard on your standard headphones.
Sometimes, not hearing is bad
Our tests for the MDR-NC11 took us to the gym, a relatively noisy place where getting lost in your music can be great. While working out on a StairMaster, the headphones were enjoyable, successfully doing away with the noise of the motor driving our never-ending staircase.
However, when we hit the free weights we couldn't hear our surroundings and couldn't get out of people's way fast enough when necessary. Our advice? Don't do outdoor activities that require your complete attention, like cycling, jogging, or even walking through the park.
Long-term relationship
Long-term wear left us happy. Having the headphones stuck in our ears for a few hours was never uncomfortable, which was a surprise considering the earplug-like design. Overall, we were impressed with the audio quality of use, not to mention the ability to completely tune out of our surroundings. Suddenly loud planes, loud subways, and loud -- strike that -- annoying co-workers are a thing of the past.
Pros: Keeps background noise out; comfortable long term; double duty noise-cancelling.
Cons: Caution should be taken when using outside.
Company SonyPrice: $149.99
Available: Now
Category: Headphones
