The world's first 99% efficient noise reduction headphones

Sep 24, 2008 11:44 GMT  ·  By
The Sony MDR-NC500D noise-canceling headphones, the first ones to block 99% of ambient noise
   The Sony MDR-NC500D noise-canceling headphones, the first ones to block 99% of ambient noise

Following a recent study showing that more than 100 million people worldwide suffer from heath problems caused by the noisy environment in planes, trains, buses or even offices, Sony is proud to reveal the world's first noise-canceling headphones, able to block out up to 99% of the ambient sonic pollution: the MDR-NC500D.

A pleasant and quiet flight is pretty much what everyone flying these days desires. The reasons are more than obvious: it's way better to go to a meeting after a long flight, on which you can listen to your fave radio programs, or preferred music tracks, or simply to get some good rest instead of pointlessly trying to sleep with all the engine drone and surrounding chatter.

 

Sonic pollution is one very dangerous aspect of our modern lives. This happens not only because its effects last for longer periods of time, if not forever, but more so because most people do not realize when they and their hearing are in danger.

 

To cap it all off, for many, this particular form of pollution has become a simple fact of everyday life, with more and more of us seemingly neglecting its long-term effects. In doing so, we’re completely oblivious to the fact that having a capacity impaired (partially or completely) may also result in serious professional problems, which can, in turn, easily amplify already existent heath issues, and cause more severe issues.

 

With the MDR-NC500D, Sony promises a breakthrough in the field of noise canceling technology: so far, most of the manufacturers producing headphones with embedded noise reduction technologies relied of analog circuitry to get the job done. This time, Sony went for completely digital sound processing technologies and highly advanced AI routines that can increase the noise canceling efficiency to as much as 99%, ensuring a quieter environment for people who are traveling.

 

These headphones are powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion battery that provides up to 16 hours of continuous operation. Nevertheless, you can extend the lifespan of your Sony MDR-NC500D using 2 additional AA batteries, and keep all those annoying noises out even during prolonged trips. As for the other details, the MDR-NC500D boast 40mm drivers, and come loaded with all the premium features one can also find in Sony's top-drawer range of headphones.

The AI module will automatically switch between the three available noise-canceling modes (airplane, office and bus), so that you will be as comfortable as you desire. A deluxe carrying case and airplane adapter are of course supplied in the package. The Sony MDR-NC500D are already available through major outlets, for a price well under $500 – they might not be exactly on your everyday list but they’re a good investment when it comes to protecting your hearing.

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