ANC Headphones: What is it and what are the benefits?

27th Oct 2021

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a method of noise reduction that has been in use for several years, however, until recently, buying a pair of headphones with ANC was expensive. It's now evident that several new headphones launched that utilize this technology and prices are beginning to come down, too. Although the name of the technology is the clearest indicator of what it is, many are confused about what the word is. We'll attempt to explain the concept to help you decide whether activating noise cancellation might be right for you.

As the name suggests, active noise cancellation is a technology that blocks the sounds around us, but it is important to know that there isn't a pair of headphones that will completely block out all sounds, but they can reduce the amount of background noise and make our surroundings much quieter. Let's look at the way noise cancellation works and whether it is suitable for your needs.

WHAT IS ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION (ANC)?

Active noise cancellation is a technology that blocks out specific elements of ambient noise. The most important word is active -The technology doesn't block out noise simply by trying to eliminate it. Instead, it listens to audio using the microphones in the headset and then creates a sound wave that effectively cancels the sound. The sound is deliberately and actively diminished.

The first time active noise cancellation technology was employed in practice was in the 1950s. The technology was founded on the patents of Lawrence Fogel, who is considered to be the creator of the technology. It was initially developed and utilized for aviation; the technology assisted in making it easier for pilots. Active Noise Cancellation is also employed in certain cars, such as Ford Endeavour (available in India) in order to make the car quieter. But the most popular application of the technology currently is in headphones for consumers.

THE ADVANTAGES OF NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES

All headphones can be described as "noise cancelling" in some way as they block external sounds by blocking your ears. However, even the most powerful pair of headphones cannot stop all outside noises like the engine of an airplane, so companies such as Skullcandy and others have turned to the field of science to address the issue.

Picture this: Sunday morning, your'e drinking your morning coffee and trying to write an important e-mail. Your wife is on a Zoom meeting while you're kids are watching their favorite TV show, on maximum volume. You're trying to be productive but the noise is unbearable. That's when your ANC Headphones come into use. Your noise cancelling headphones will create your surrounding entirely yours. You will be able to focus more at home, at work or at the gym.

Suddenly, noisy kids on the flight will be less of an issue and you'll be more likely to fall asleep on your yearly flight to Vegas.

CAN HEADPHONES WITH NOISE CANCELLATION CUT ALL SOUNDS?

Whatever noise-cancelling headphones you purchase - from the mose premium ones to the least expensive they will not entirely block all sounds. Contrary to what you might think, noise-cancelling headphones won't eliminate all sounds, and any sound that's not continuous will be unaffected. The sounds of voices, the use of tools, traffic noises and any loud noises will nevertheless go through your ears.

In general, ANC headphones are effective at lower frequencies of sound between 50 Hz and 1 kHz. This is the reason ANC is more suitable for cutting down on low, continuous sound like airplane engines and motors, and this is the reason that these headphones aren't able to block out screaming children.

WHAT NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES SHOULD I BUY?

1. Skullcandy Crusher ANC

The Skullcandy Crusher ANC headphones contain three different premium technologies, that make up a one amazing experience! The Crusher ANC are adjustable, comfortable, and all you need for a noise-proof music experience.

2. Skullcandy Venue ANC:

The Skullcandy Venue headphones let you hear only the music. When you're riding the subway or at home getting annoyed by your roommates TV, or simply escaping the distractions of an open-office, Venue lets you create your own private space, with the help of active noise cancellation.

3. Skullcandy Hesh ANC:

With its powerful 40mm drivers and outstanding acoustics, Hesh ANC features audio quality that has been refined through four generations of continuous advancement. The crystal clear and rich sound, combined with active noise cancellation provides an audio experience you'd get at a price that is twice as expensive.