On 2009-04-08, jeffgee wrote:
I have been using some earbuds for music and then some big earmuff
style hearing protectors over them. I have been shopping for
headphones and was wondering what the group thinks of using noise
reducing headphones for hearing protection. I have a feeling they only
stop normal noise and would not provide the protection I am looking
for but thought I'd ask on the off chance that I could exchange 2
things sitting on my head for just one.
thanks for any input you might have
-- jeff

Hearing protection runs the gamut from crushable foam earplugs to $200
electronic audio isolation devices. Go to your local gun range and see what
they are using. Some devices do nothing but stop ALL sound. HF sells
adequate items for under $10. I've used them on the range for years. They
work fine. The more expensive electronic muffs will stop LOUD noise, but
allow for normal conversation. $100-200 is typical. DO NOT buy "sonic" ear
valves or other bogus ear plugs with moving "valves" that allegedly stop
LOUD noises. I've found them to be expensive and useless. If you do use
crushable foam earplugs, get the ones with flat ends (EAR), putting the flat
end in your ear. The one's with rounded ends are useless.

I abused my ears for years and know about ear protection. From jet fighter
test stands and full afterburner takeoffs in the USAF, to gun ranges and AA
fuel dragsters that are so loud they will knock you off your feet and the
exhaust concussion will stall your heart, I've experienced it all. You want
max protection, wear foam ear plugs under maximum silencing ear muffs.
Everything else is a comprimise. As for Bose, it's all junk.


nb