In the world of audio technology, wireless headphones with active noise-cancelling (ANC) hold a special place. These devices allow you to enjoy music wirelessly while blocking external noises, providing a high-quality and comfortable listening experience. Let’s take a look at the features of such headphones, their advantages, and the important parameters to consider when purchasing.
What is Active Noise-Cancelling (ANC)?
Active noise-cancelling is a technology that allows headphones to reduce the level of external noise. Unlike passive noise-cancelling, which is achieved through the physical isolation of the ear using ear pads, active noise-cancelling uses built-in microphones and algorithms to neutralize external sounds.
Here’s how it works: microphones embedded in the headphones capture external sounds, and a special processor generates sound waves in reverse phase that “absorb” the external noise. This significantly reduces the volume of surrounding sounds, such as the noise of an airplane engine, street sounds, or office conversations.
Advantages of Headphones with Active Noise-Cancelling
Improved Listening Comfort
The main advantage of ANC headphones is the ability to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts without being distracted by external noises. In regular headphones, background noise can interfere with fully immersing yourself in your listening experience in noisy places like the subway or airport. With active noise-cancelling, this is no longer an issue.
Versatility
These headphones are ideal for people who travel frequently or work in noisy environments. Active noise-cancelling helps create a “personal space,” isolating you from chaotic sounds.
Hearing Protection
With ANC, you can listen to music at lower volumes. Since external noise is blocked, there is no need to raise the volume to drown out background sounds. This reduces the risk of hearing damage during prolonged headphone use.
Important Parameters When Choosing ANC Headphones
Noise-Cancelling Effectiveness
Different models offer varying levels of ANC performance. Some devices can completely block low-frequency noises, like the hum of a motor or ventilation, but may allow certain high-frequency sounds, like voices, to pass through. It is important to pay attention to how well the headphones handle different types of noise, especially if you plan to use them in high-noise environments.
Sound Quality
Active noise-cancelling should not affect sound quality. Good headphones will provide clean, balanced sound regardless of whether noise-cancelling is enabled. Pay attention to deep, clear bass, as well as balanced mids and highs.
Battery Life
Wireless headphones rely on built-in batteries, and their battery life can vary greatly depending on the model and usage mode. Many headphones offer around 20-30 hours of operation with noise-cancelling enabled, while without ANC, this time can increase to 40 hours or more. Some models feature fast charging, allowing you to get several hours of listening time after just 10-15 minutes of charging.
Comfort and Fit
Headphones should sit comfortably on your head and ears. Models with soft ear cushions and adjustable headbands are better suited for extended use. Poor fit can reduce comfort and lower the effectiveness of noise-cancelling, as the tightness of the headphones affects the ANC system’s performance.
Connectivity and Additional Features
Modern wireless standards like Bluetooth ensure a stable connection and high-quality wireless audio. Pay attention to additional features such as touch controls, transparency mode (to hear surrounding sounds without removing the headphones), support for voice assistants, and control via mobile apps.
Should You Buy ANC Headphones?
ANC headphones are not just a trendy accessory, but a tool that can significantly improve your quality of life. If you frequently find yourself in noisy environments at work, while traveling, or in the hustle and bustle of the city, ANC headphones are an excellent choice. They help you focus on work, enjoy music, or simply relax in silence.
However, if you rarely find yourself in noisy places and don’t need full isolation from the outside world, such headphones might seem unnecessary. In this case, it might be worth considering more affordable models without ANC that still provide good sound quality and comfort.