Noise canceling Headphones - Whats Good?

[powerscol]

In several threads here and in other forms folks mentioning using the noise canceling headphones for easing ear pain, especially on the high end frequency while baling or doing other chores on their tractors or in the shop. I decided I probably need some - boss unit indicates my selective hearing is getting worse :confused3:

I went on line and did a search - OMG - TMI I have no idea what really to look for so I thought I would ask how folks choose theirs, how they have worked for them, and what to look for when shopping. Also any brand or model to stay away from. Also are any that are all weather rated that I can store on the tractor. If it is there I will remember to use them.

Thanks in advance

 

[zmansmac]

powerscol, this question has been asked many times and in many different forums. Yes the choices, along with the range of prices, is mind boggling. Basic considerations are budget, how loud is the noise you're trying to suppress and whether you want a self contained unit (wireless) or wired. My worst scenario was cutting grass either with the tractor or my ZTR because you have the engine at full throttle plus the sound of the blades whirring. I don't think you'll find anything that will completely eliminate all the noise, but you don't really want to. If something goes haywire you want to be able to hear that. I've tried many different setups over the years starting with the older Worktunes, which is an AM/FM headset (newer ones can also be plugged into a MP3 player or phone. They are reasonably priced but radio reception wasn't very good in the rural area where I lived. I've also have a couple of different noise cancelling headphones, both wired and bluetooth enabled. Headphones are the most comfortable way to go, but in my opinion, don't give the best results. Here is my setup of choice, especially if you really enjoy listening to your music. I have my music on my smartphone, so I use a mid-priced bluetooth, noise cancelling earbuds. They came with different size cushions to fit your ear. Being in your ear, they give the best sound but not the best for eliminating outside noise. That's why I use an inexpensive pair of Peltor ear protecting headphones over the earbuds.

There's a lot of choices out there. I would only suggest not buying anything really inexpensive, but on the other hand, there's no need to spend hundreds like on some of the high end noise cancelling headphones like Bose. To answer your question about weather rating, I don't think any of these devices are made for storage or use in the rain. But if you want to just store them outside on the machine you could simply use a food storage container or even a zip lock bag.

 

[powerscol]

Thanks
Before I asked the question I did read a lot of hits through a search, but not many mentioned brand or model of what worked for them. I have an old set of noise muffs (not noise canceling type) I used years ago at the rifle range, but they are hard to wear bouncing on the tractor and dont do a very good job - great for rifle noise, but terrible on tractor drone.

Thanks for the help.

 

[Huskerfan]

Mowing and no cab:
Custom molded ear plugs and Peltors. Combo provides good value and passive protection.

Better, are Bose qc 35 noise cancelling headset with Bluetooth (allows phone calls and music with your smart phone and no wires) with custom molded ear plugs.

In a cab, the Bose alone provide adequate protection.

In aviation cockpits (one of the noisiest environments encountered) the Bose A20s are considered to be the industry standard. I find the Bose qc35 to be similar.

 

[Gunny]

These work well for me, almost knocks the bush hog noises completely out, 24db reduction. I listen to AM radio and we're way out in the sticks, but it gets good reception.

I will qualify my post by admitting that I've had a lot of hearing loss, so the noise reduction may not be as much for someone else.

3M WorkTunes Hearing Protector, MP3 Compatible with AM/FM Tuner (9541-4DC) - Hunting Earmuffs - Amazon.com

 

[N80]

My wife bought me a pair of the Bose for our anniversary because she heard me talking about this. It was very nice of her but they were $300 so I sent them back without opening the box. I use a pair of average ear muffs over ear buds with flexible rubber cups that fit down in the ear canal (Sony, $15). This combo works exceptionally well, is comfortable and super cheap. Very little tractor noise gets through and I do not have to turn the music up loud at all. The fact that this combo worked so well is the main reason I sent the Bose back without trying them.

I also get sweaty on the tractor and I'm always ducking brush and branches and I'm not certain how well $300 headphones would hold up to the abuse.

 

[TractorGuy]

These work well for me, almost knocks the bush hog noises completely out, 24db reduction. I listen to AM radio and we're way out in the sticks, but it gets good reception.

I will qualify my post by admitting that I've had a lot of hearing loss, so the noise reduction may not be as much for someone else.

3M WorkTunes Hearing Protector, MP3 Compatible with AM/FM Tuner (9541-4DC) - Hunting Earmuffs - Amazon.com

I have these as well and have been very pleased with them. Bought mine from the local Walmart. Did the buy online for store pickup but they had them in stock so no waiting. They may cost more in the store and they do not price match even their own online prices. FM radio reception is great and so is battery life.

 

[blackdog2086]

+1 for the earbuds and a set of muffs over the top. I can listen to music with that setup even while operating a chainsaw which is considerably louder than tractor or mower work.

 

[powerscol]

Thanks folks - this is a great help

 

[compact]

I use Howard Leight impact sports, wear them hunting also. I wear them a little bit over the bottom edge of my hat so they do not seal tightly on my ears, less "boomy" which aggrivates tinnitus. They are very comfortable for me.