We've written in this space before about noise-cancellation headphones. The technology doesn't come cheap, but its ability to block out background noise is much appreciated by travelers who spend long hours surrounded by engine noise in the air and ambient noise in crowded airport terminals.
Problem is, most noise-cancellation headphones we've seen are bulky, full-size affairs that require batteries and have to be stored in a case or pouch that takes up way too much space in a carry-on bag.
Traditional ear buds, like those that come standard with iPod or other MP3 players, are uncomfortable for many people and don't do a very good job of blocking ambient sound.
We were blown away by a new product that incorporates superior noise-blocking ability and full-size earphone comfort in a package just a wee bit larger than regular ear buds.
The Comply NR-10 earphones deliver sound – including full, rich bass response – that is nothing short of amazing. And the super-soft memory foam earpiece conforms to the ear canal to provide a fit so natural you forget it's there.
When my son and I tried these out on a recent flight, I was so transported that I lost track of the fact that I was in the air. It's been ages since I got so absorbed in my music. I also popped a movie DVD into my laptop and plugged in the phones for sound. In both cases, the engine noise that often interferes with listening to anything on airplanes became a complete non-issue.
According to the literature that comes with the product, the earphones are engineered and proven to deliver 48 decibels of noise reduction using the same patented technology as that adopted by the U.S. Army for helicopter crews. I'm not sure what that means in technical terms, but I sure am impressed with the product.
Now, if I can just get my son to give them up …
The Comply NR-10 earphones are available for $79.95 from Hearing Components, www.complyfoam.com. The package includes a storage pouch and two extra sets of foam tips.
– Janet Fullwood
