Headphones to silence the chaos: The need for noise cancellation

In today's often noisy world, active noise cancellation (ANC) in headphones has become one of the most sought-after features. Whether using headphones on crowded public transport, during a flight, or at the office, ANC allows us to block out noise and focus on music, podcasts, or conversations. In this article, we'll look closer at noise-cancellation technology and its impact on our health and recommend headphones worth considering.

Active noise cancellation, also known as ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), is a technology used in headphones that effectively blocks out environmental noise. It emits sounds with frequencies opposite to those of external noises, effectively cancelling them out. In practice, microphones placed outside and inside the headphones capture ambient sounds, and an electronic circuit generates sound waves of opposite phases to eliminate unwanted noises. This technology is particularly useful in noisy environments like aeroplanes, trains, or crowded offices, allowing the user to focus solely on music or conversation.

In headphones with active noise cancellation, a "transparency" mode provides quick access to ambient sounds. This way, the user can hear what's happening around them without removing the headphones, which is useful, for instance, when crossing the street or listening to announcements at the airport.

Headphones with active noise cancellation not only improve user comfort but can also impact hearing health. By reducing ambient noise, users can listen to music at lower volumes, which, in the long term, can reduce the risk of hearing damage. In noisy places like public transport or crowded offices, we typically increase volume to drown out external noise—ANC technology eliminates this need.

On the other hand, individuals sensitive to changes in sound pressure may experience discomfort when using active noise cancellation, especially in over-ear or in-ear headphones. It's recommended that users choose devices that allow for adjusting ANC intensity so that they can tailor the level of noise reduction to their preferences.

Currently, many models of headphones on the market are equipped with active noise cancellation, varying in price, sound quality, and additional features. Here are some popular and highly regarded models:

1. Sony WH-1000XM5 – Sony has long been a leader in ANC technology, and the WH-1000XM5 model is among the best on the market. It features excellent noise suppression, clear sound, and long battery life. This model also offers the ability to adjust ANC intensity and an adaptive mode that adjusts to the environment.
2. Bose QuietComfort 45 – Bose is known for its pioneering noise reduction solutions. QuietComfort 45 ensures high user comfort and effective noise reduction. The headphones are lightweight, making them ideal for long trips. It's also worth noting that this model is easy to use and offers balanced, natural sound.
3. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)—Ideal for Apple device users, AirPods Pro provides effective noise cancellation in an earbud format. The advantage is also the adaptive transparency mode, allowing users to clearly hear their surroundings and the deep and clear sound characteristic of Apple equipment.
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless—Sennheiser is a brand for those who demand high audio quality. Momentum 4 is a wireless headphone with highly efficient noise cancellation and impressive battery life. These headphones deliver a balanced sound and allow for customisation of the ANC function to the environment.

Each model offers slightly different features, but all stand out for their high-quality active noise cancellation, so it's worth choosing a model tailored to your needs and preferences.