If you’ve been shopping for headphones recently, you may have come across the term “ANC” or “active noise cancellation”. But what exactly does ANC mean and how does it affect your listening experience? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of ANC headphones and explore what it means for your audio experience.
What is ANC?
ANC stands for active noise cancellation, which is a technology that uses advanced algorithms and microphones to reduce unwanted external noise. This technology is commonly found in headphones and earbuds, and it works by analyzing the ambient noise around you and creating inverse sound waves to cancel out the noise.
How Does ANC Work?
ANC headphones have built-in microphones that pick up external noise and send it to a digital signal processor (DSP). The DSP then analyzes the noise and creates inverse sound waves that cancel out the external noise. These inverse sound waves are then played through the headphones, effectively reducing the amount of external noise that reaches your ears.
ANC technology is most effective at reducing low-frequency sounds, such as the hum of an airplane engine or the rumble of a train. It is less effective at reducing high-frequency sounds, such as human voices or car horns.
Why Do People Use ANC Headphones?
ANC headphones are popular among travelers, commuters, and anyone who wants to block out external noise and focus on their music or work. They are also useful for people who work in noisy environments, such as open offices or coffee shops.
ANC headphones can also help reduce ear fatigue, as you don’t have to turn up the volume to drown out external noise. This can be especially beneficial for people who listen to music for extended periods of time.
Types of ANC Headphones
There are two main types of ANC headphones: over-ear and in-ear. Over-ear headphones have larger ear cups that completely cover your ears, while in-ear headphones sit inside your ear canal.
Over-ear headphones tend to have better ANC performance as they can physically block out external noise, in addition to using ANC technology. However, in-ear headphones are more portable and can be more discreet.
ANC Headphones on the Market
There are many ANC headphones on the market, each with their own unique features and price points. Here are a few popular options:
Yamaha YH-E700A ANC Wireless Headphones
The Yamaha YH-E700A ANC Wireless Headphones are a top-of-the-line option for those looking for high-quality sound and advanced ANC technology. These headphones use Yamaha’s proprietary ANC technology, which is designed to reduce external noise without affecting the sound quality.
They also have a long battery life of up to 35 hours and come with a carrying case for easy portability. The Yamaha YH-E700A headphones are on the pricier side, but they offer top-notch sound and ANC performance.
Adapt 661 ANC Wireless Headphones
The Adapt 661 ANC Wireless Headphones are a more affordable option for those looking for ANC technology. These headphones use hybrid ANC, which combines both feedforward and feedback ANC to reduce external noise.
They also have a long battery life of up to 30 hours and come with a carrying case. The Adapt 661 headphones are a great option for those on a budget who still want the benefits of ANC technology.
How to Use ANC Headphones
Using ANC headphones is simple and straightforward. Here are the basic steps to using ANC headphones:
- Charge your headphones: Before using your ANC headphones, make sure they are fully charged. Most ANC headphones have a battery life of 20-30 hours, so you won’t have to charge them frequently.
- Turn on ANC: Most ANC headphones have a button or switch that allows you to turn on the ANC feature. Make sure this is turned on before using your headphones.
- Play music: Once your headphones are on and ANC is activated, play your music or audio of choice. You should notice a significant reduction in external noise.
- Adjust ANC settings: Some ANC headphones allow you to adjust the level of noise cancellation. This can be useful in different environments, such as a noisy office or a quiet library.
ANC vs. Passive Noise Cancellation
ANC is often confused with passive noise cancellation, but they are two different technologies. Passive noise cancellation is the physical blocking of external noise through the design of the headphones. This can be achieved through over-ear headphones or in-ear headphones with a tight seal.
ANC, on the other hand, actively cancels out external noise through technology and does not rely on the physical design of the headphones. Both technologies can be effective in reducing external noise, but ANC is generally more effective at reducing low-frequency sounds.
Conclusion
ANC headphones are a popular choice for those looking to block out external noise and focus on their music or work. They use advanced technology to actively cancel out external noise and can be beneficial for travelers, commuters, and anyone who works in a noisy environment.
There are many ANC headphones on the market, each with their own unique features and price points. Whether you opt for a high-end option like the Yamaha YH-E700A or a more affordable option like the Adapt 661, ANC headphones can greatly enhance your listening experience. So next time you see “ANC” on a pair of headphones, you’ll know exactly what it means and how it can improve your audio experience.
