When choosing headphones, you may come across terms like “Noise Isolation” and “Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).” These features play a crucial role in determining the overall audio experience and comfort. Let’s explore the differences between them in simple terms.
Noise Isolation:
Noise isolation, also known as passive noise cancellation, involves using physical barriers to block out ambient noise. This is similar to covering your ears with your palms to reduce noise. Headphones with foam pads in the ear cups form a secure seal around your ears, isolating them from external sounds. While effective to some extent, noise can still leak through depending on the fit and materials used.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):
Active Noise Cancellation, or ANC, is a more advanced method of blocking ambient sound. It employs miniature microphones within the headphones to listen to the surrounding noise. The data from these microphones is then processed by a built-in chipset that generates an opposing soundwave (180 degrees out of phase) through the speakers. This counter-signal cancels out the incoming ambient sound waves, reducing the noise.
How ANC Works:
To better understand ANC, imagine adding +1 and -1, which results in zero. ANC follows a similar concept to achieve silence by emitting a counter-signal that neutralizes the incoming sound waves. However, it’s essential to note that most ANC systems are more effective at canceling low-frequency sound waves, like the hum of a car engine or air-conditioner.
Difference Between Noise Isolation and ANC:
- Noise Reduction: Noise-isolating headphones rely on physical attributes to block ambient noise, reducing mid to high-frequency sounds by about 15dB to 30dB. On the other hand, ANC headphones use electronics and can effectively reduce ambient noise, mainly low-frequency sounds, by an average of 30dB.
- Sound Quality: Noise-isolating headphones generally focus on design and construction for the best sound quality, while ANC headphones may experience some sound “coloration” due to the electronics involved. Nevertheless, some high-end ANC headphones can still compete in sound quality with top-notch audiophile headphones.
- Power Consumption: Noise-isolating headphones do not require any power source, whereas ANC headphones need power, usually from batteries, to operate their noise-canceling features.
- Comfort & Safety: Comfort can vary depending on the individual’s preferences, but noise isolation might be uncomfortable if the fit is not good. Some users may experience pressure on their ears when wearing ANC headphones due to the cancellation of low-frequency sounds. Both types of headphones, when used responsibly, are safe for hearing protection.
Conclusion:
In summary, noise isolation and active noise cancellation have their strengths and weaknesses. Noise-isolating headphones are better at reducing mid to high-frequency sounds, offer excellent sound quality, and do not require power. On the other hand, ANC headphones are more effective at canceling low-frequency sounds but may have slight sound coloration and need power to operate. Ultimately, choosing the right type of headphones depends on your personal preferences and the situations where you’ll be using them.