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July 14, 2008
Brilliant New Use for Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Mowing the Grass
Back in March, I reviewed the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint Noise-Cancelling Headphones (shown). I've continued enjoying them whenever I fly, as they greatly reduce the stress and fatigue I usually get when traveling on an airplane.
Tonight, however, I discovered a more mundane, and therefore, more useful, application for these noise-silencing cans: transforming the chore of grass-mowing into a nearly pleasurable activity.
While they can't eradicate the mower's noise entirely...it's just too overwhelming...the combination of (a) the over-the-ear seals, and (b) the noise-canceling technology effectively drops the drone of the mower to easily tolerable levels. In fact, while I usually struggle to hear the radio over the mower when using my jogging headphones, even at top volume, I was easily able to listen in total comfort at only 60% volume when wearing the Audio-Technicas.
So, if you have a pair of NC headphones, give this a shot and let me know if you notice a difference. And if you don't already have a set, and you mow the grass on occasion, go grab some...your ears will be thankful.
Posted by Craig in Music & Audio
and Other
Comments
It's great to see ANR (Active Noise Reduction) technology coming down in price. Business-wise, it was only a matter of time, and I'd expect it to move to even more mundane uses as the price comes down and patents run out.
Can't say I've ever mowed the lawn with them, but I have worn them around jet engine run-ups, and the difference is striking. Too bad I'm still too poor to enjoy their full benefits.
Posted by: Court at July 18, 2008 11:16 AM