How Noise Cancelling Works? (Protect Ears in Wireless World)

safe listening & how noise cancelling works

Wondering how noise cancelling works? The digital world and variety of audio devices are pushing us to focus on protecting our hearing. 

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) impacts millions around the globe, with the World Health Organization noting over 1.1 billion young people at risk.

This is showing us why tools like wireless noise-canceling headphones really do matter.

To better understand the risks, have a look at this statistic:

  • City noises often reach 70 dB, which harms hearing.
  • NIHL might start with ringing ears or muffled sounds.
  • Noise-canceling gear helps us listen at safer levels.

Noise-cancellation headphones allow for hearing protection against background noises, while still enjoying your favorite podcast or music.

Now, let’s proceed further and have a look at how hearing loss works, what causes it, and how to prevent it!

Understanding Hearing Loss: How Loud is Too Loud?

First, let’s learn how loud is actually too loud. The table below shows common noise levels, their sources, safe exposure times, and risk to your hearing.

understanding hearing loss

Sounds at 70 dB or below, like a normal conversation, are safe for any duration, but your hearing is compromised at a much higher level after 85 dB.

Every 3 dB increase after the 85 mark halves the safe listening time, so 88 dB is safe for only 4 hours, for example. 

Noise-canceling headphones can help by lowering background noise, so you don’t need to increase the volume as much.

Although with ANC, listening above 85 dB for long periods can still harm your hearing. 

We at ZontSound recommend using volume-limiting features on devices, like Apple’s Hearing Health or Android’s Digital Wellbeing, to keep sound levels safe.

How Noise-Canceling Headphones Actually Work?

1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Explained

active noise cancellation (anc) explained

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) reduces background noise and is implemented with headphones or earbuds, as long as the hardware allows.

ANC isolates external sounds and provides a quieter listening experience without having to increase the volume as much.

The table below summarizes how ANC works and its key characteristics:

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Overview
TechnologyUses microphones and phase-inverted sound to cancel noise
Power RequirementRequires battery power
EffectivenessBest for low-frequency noise (up to 60dB reduction)
ComfortDepends on fit; can cause fatigue or “ear drum suck”
Sound QualityMay introduce slight distortion or “missing” feel in music
SafetyGenerally safe; some may feel dizzy or experience pressure
PortabilityOften compact, but varies by model
Battery lifeShorter when ANC is enabled
Cost rangeGood models range from $100–$300+

ANC works by using micro-sized microphones on the headphones to pick up external sounds, then generating inverse soundwaves (anti-noise) to cancel them before they reach your ears. 

This process is most effective against steady, low-frequency noises like motor engines, for example, but requires an electrical power supply that can drain faster when ANC is active.

Some users might notice slight audio distortion or discomfort during prolonged use.

✅Advantages

  • Cuts down low-frequency noise like airplane engines for safer listening.
  • Allows you to lower the volume in loud settings, protecting your hearing.
  • Improves focus in noisy environments like offices or public transportation.

❌Challenges

  • It may create an ear “pressure” feeling or discomfort.
  • It can slightly distort music or make it feel less natural.
  • Drains battery faster, requiring more frequent charging.

2. Passive Noise Isolation

passive noise isolation

Passive Noise Isolation is a method that blocks external noise without electronics, offering a simple way to enjoy audio safely by reducing the need to raise the volume in noisy places. 

It relies on the physical design of headphones or earbuds to create a barrier, making it effective for a wide range of environments.

The table below contains all characteristics of the passive noise isolation:

Physical barrier. Seal the ear canal to block noise.
TechnologyPhysical barrier. Seal ear canal to block noise.
Power RequirementNo power requirements
EffectivenessBest for mid-to-high-frequency noise (15–30 dB reduction)
ComfortVery high with custom-molded earbuds, also called “UE FITS”
Sound QualityPure and undistorted with no added signal
SafetyVery safe and promotes listening at higher volume settings
PortabilityHighly portable, small, and lightweight
Battery lifeNot affected by the cancellation
Cost rangeAffordable, yet with high-end brands

Passive Noise Isolation works with the help of the headphone design to physically block sound, unlike ANC, which cancels noise with technology. 

It performs the best at reducing mid-to-high-frequency noises, such as voices or traffic, providing clear audio without distortion, and requires no power at all.

✅Advantages

  • Blocks mid-to-high-frequency noise like voices or traffic effectively.
  • Delivers pure sound with no distortion or added noise at all times.
  • Requires no battery, ensuring unlimited use without any charging.

❌Challenges

  • Less effective against low-frequency sounds like engine hums.
  • Poor sealing reduces noise blocking and requires a unique fit.
  • PNI may feel isolated and limit the awareness of surroundings.

3. “Eardrum Suck” – When Tech Feels Strange

“Eardrum suck” is a sensation some users feel when using noise-canceling headphones, often described as a pressure or vacuum-like effect in the ears that can be unsettling.

This sensation, while not harmful, can make listening uncomfortable for certain people.

eardrum suck” – when tech feels strange

It happens because ANC creates inverse sound waves to cancel noise, which can alter air pressure around the eardrum, tricking the brain into sensing a “suction” effect.

In the meantime, no actual vacuum occurs. 

To adapt, start with short listening sessions to get accustomed, adjust the headphone fit for less seal, or switch to Passive Noise Isolation if the sensation persists, as it doesn’t involve soundwave manipulation.

4. Which One is the Best?

Now, let’s compare both types of noise-cancellation and decide which one is better for you:

Do Noise-Canceling Headphones Protect Your Hearing?

Noise-cancellation headphones are not always the solution to hearing loss. They help by lowering external sounds and make it easier to listen at safer volumes without needing to increase the audio as much and enter dangerous levels. 

  • ANC can cut noise by up to 60 dB, reducing the need for high volume.

Noise-Canceling Headphones Vs. Hearing Protection Devices

passive noise isolation vs. active noise cancellation

Your noise-cancelling headphones may not always serve the best purpose when it comes to your use case.

If you work in an industrial setting, you might instead require a hearing protection device, rather than an ANC headset. 

Understanding the difference between hearing protection devices and noise-canceling headphones of either type is essential.

Let’s understand the difference between the two types!

1. Hearing Protection Devices

Real hearing protection, like foam earplugs, earmuffs, and custom-molded earbuds, blocks loud noise in dangerous places.

They come with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) that shows how much sound they cut, like an NRR of 30 dB bringing 100 dB down to 70 dB. 

hearing protection devices

These are safety-certified, unlike noise-canceling headphones, which are made for listening, not protection.

  • A 2023 NIOSH study found that earplugs with NRR 25 or higher lower hearing loss by 80% in 90 dB spots.

2. Workshop Warnings

Noise-canceling headphones are not safe in workshops where power tools, like chainsaws at 110 dB, make loud, sudden noises. 

They are meant for steady and continuous sounds that are certainly below 100 dB.

ZontSound recommends using certified hearing protection with an NRR of 30 dB or more in industrial or DIY settings.

  • OSHA suggests using hearing protection if the noise is over 85 dB at work.
  • A power saw can harm your hearing in just 15 minutes without proper gear.

Tips for Safe Listening & Hearing Loss Protection

Now, let’s have a look at some reliable methods to protect your hearing in the long run!

1. Keep Volume Levels Between 60–75 dB

keep volume levels between 60–75 db

Always keep the output volume levels at  60–75 dB to protect your ears.

This level is safe for all-day listening and doesn’t expose your hearing to any harm, regardless of what you listen to.

This should be about half the volume of your smartphone. 

2. Be Mindful of Listening Duration

The listening duration is among the most important factors. As referenced in the hearing loss table at the top, every 3 dB reduces the “safe” listening time by half.

This means that if 88 dB is acceptable for 4 hours, 91 dB would be acceptable for only 2.

3. Combine ANC with Volume Control

ANC blocks all of the background noises, so you don’t have to turn up the volume on your smartphone a lot to hear the output.

The feature itself encourages the users to listen as much as they’d like by keeping the audio low while still hearing your music or podcast.

4. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Headphone sellers provide tips like volume limitations to protect the hearing of the users.

You can always consult the user manual of your ANC or passive noise cancellation headset for these recommendations and stay within the norms.

5. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

ANC can block too much of the noise and isolate you from the outside world.

This could lead to a potential issue, especially if you are out in public, so consider a mode that doesn’t block all of the sound, especially if you are on a walk. 

Long-Term Hearing Health: Think Beyond Headphones

long-term hearing health

Protecting your hearing goes beyond just using headphones. 

  • You need to take breaks and recover to preserve your hearing. Take regular breaks from loud sounds, and allow your ears to rest after exposure to high decibels. 
  • Reduce the background noise as much as possible in your office, workplace, or home as well. Small changes can lower your daily exposure to noise and preserve your hearing. 
  • Visit a hearing care specialist every year to check your ears, especially if you notice one of the early hearing loss symptoms we have mentioned earlier. 

Noise Cancelling: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can noise-canceling headphones prevent hearing loss?

No, they reduce background noise to allow lower volumes, but high volumes above 85 dB can still harm hearing.

2. How do I check if my headphones are at a safe volume?

check if headphones are at safe volume

Keep volume at 60–75 dB, about half your device’s max. Use phone tools like Apple’s Hearing Health to monitor.

2. How do I check if my headphones are at a safe volume?

Keep volume at 60–75 dB, about half your device’s max. Use phone tools like Apple’s Hearing Health to monitor.

3. Are noise-canceling headphones safe for kids?

Yes, with volume limits (70–85 dB). Passive isolation is better to avoid ANC discomfort.

4. How do noise-canceling headphones differ from earplugs?

Headphones reduce noise for audio; earplugs with NRR 25–30 dB are certified for high-noise protection.

5. Can I use noise-canceling headphones in loud workplaces?

No, use certified earplugs or earmuffs with high NRR for loud settings like construction.

6. Why do ANC headphones feel uncomfortable?

ANC’s “eardrum suck” can cause pressure. Try shorter sessions or switch to passive isolation.

7. How often should I take breaks with headphones?

Follow the 60/60 rule: 60% volume for 60 minutes, then a 5–10 minute break.

Conclusion:

This was all you should know about safe listening, hearing protection, and noise-canceling devices. Don’t forget that the amount of exposure in terms of hearing loss is quite essential.

Exposing yourself to a loud sound once or twice a month is not as dangerous as doing it daily. After all, there are plenty of hearing protection devices nowadays that can preserve the health of your hearing more than ever.

We wish you safe listening!

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