Maxell HP/NC-III - Headphones ( ear-cup ) - noise canceling

• Eliminates up to 95% of unwanted outside noise
• Ideal companion for in-flight use
• In-line volume control; Frequency response: 20Hz-15kHz
• Silver-plated 3.5mm mini-plug
• Includes airplane adapter

Not a Bose but for $20... not the worst:
I purchased these when my JVC NC100 set was stolen, though neither comes anywhere close to a Bose NC headset, the Maxell actually outperform the JVC over-the-ear variety. The JVC had an unpleasant overly loud hiss from one side and lower output from the second... I would have returned them if they hadn't been stolen. The Maxell NC3 with the NC off gives a weak audio but not overly poor. With the NC on, the audio is bright and surprisingly good. The noise cancelling is far less than what is offered by Bose and other higher priced units, but for around $20 it's better than I expected. Sitting in the4 forward areas of an aircraft, the cancellation gives a pretty good ride, music from an MP3 player or movie player is very usable and volume levels are about half what would be needed without them. Still plenty of aircraft sound comes through but still better than without the noise cancelling. As you move toward the rear of the plane, the ambient sounds increase and though the phones still help, they're not fully up to the task and you'll have to crank up the audio a bit more than forward levels. I'd guess that overall 40-50% noise reduction is what you'll experience with these. They work surprisingly well to reduce airconditionalr and fan noise in the office. Comfort: While they're OK for two or three hours of use, you'll want to ice your ears after a 5 hour flight. If you only fly occasionally and generally short flights and are very budget concious, these are for you. Longer Flights, Better Budget? Go for the more expensive offerings from Panasonic, Sony, Audio-Technica, JVC or if you're flush, go for the Bose- they really are amazing.