I have a pair of in-ear etymotics that have served me well for several years now. I believe they have 28 db of isolation.

They block out pretty much everything and work particularly well at blocking out the drone of an airplane. They also have some of the best sound quality you can get--certainly better than any over the ear headphone (Bose noise canceling or otherwise).

I think I paid $100 for them years ago, I think they are the ER-6. I have heard good things about Sennheiser (sp?) also.

Additionally, with regards to comfort, in-ear headphones can be uncomfortable for some. I began to hate them after a while due to discomfort but switched from the rubber to memory foam and have been happy ever since. On their website you can purchase the different pieces that actually go "in" your ear. The only thing I do not like is that they isolate sound so well that I cannot wear them for running or skiing because you cannot hear anything whatsoever with music on and them in your ears.

 

Noise isolation, IMO, is FAR better than noise cancellation. Unless you can't stand how they feel, I'd personally recommend a pair of Shure earphones over anything from Bose.

However, depending on your budget, JH Audio JH-5's ($399) would be the absolute best option for sound isolation. They require an audiologist mold, but you'll have no comfort issues.

I have a pair of Shure SE210's that I've used for years on planes, and they changed flying for me. They cable is breaking, so I'm going to get the SE425's next.

 

Mike is A+ I have bought several sets from him....his advice was always spot on.

 

I like the portability of earbuds - I'm curious to hear (pun intended) Sound Earphone's advice.

 

PM Sent on some recommendations along with the special TS pricing.

 

i second shure in ears over any noise canceling headsets.

 

The conscenesus seems to be that in ear sound isolation is superior. My next question is a 400 set that much better than a 200 set?

 

EDIT. I actually just looked at them and they are JVC HA-FX66 which look to be pretty inexpensive now. I still love them and they are great for keeping outside noise out. I'd love to hear from Sound Earphones on what else is out there for in-ear bud style. We can discuss my price range via PM.


James

 

On my second pair of Bose QC3's... after the first pair started to "go" they offered me a replacement pair for about C$ 120. I probably use them 3-4 hours a day while i study and make notes....while there may be better headphones for sound quality, they still sound great and are comfortable as hell.