Comment by Raphmedia

6 years ago

I have invested in a quality pair of earbuds that double as foam earplugs. This passive sound isolation means I can set some music at low volume and be completely isolated from the outside world.

Active isolation is rubbish because it lets voices through.

Here is what I use : Shure SE215 - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=20277513

11 comments

Raphmedia

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JohnFen  6 years ago

I found that I can't wear headphones of any sort in an open office environment. It puts me on edge and I'm always checking to see if someone has come up behind me or is trying to get my attention.

It's a nice idea in theory (and it clearly works for a lot of people), but for me it just makes the situation even worse.

  • Raphmedia  6 years ago

    I am the same. However, when it's too noisy I have to choice but to put headphones in. I used earplugs for a while but the absolute silence (and the ringing in my ears) drove me crazy. That's why I found those. I usually leave one ear free and only put the second plug in when it gets very noisy.

    • loco5niner  6 years ago

      >(and the ringing in my ears)

      Yep. I also have tinnitus (ringing) due to overuse of headphones at the office. I have to be very careful about volume.

ben509  6 years ago

Definitely agree about active noise cancellation, if anything, it makes voices worse. I've been pleased with Etymotic ER3XR.

Though headphones don't help with visual distraction. I need to look into some dividers just to block out my peripheral vision.

  • Raphmedia  6 years ago

    > Though headphones don't help with visual distraction.

    I often wear my hood up or wear a cap (or both) on times where I need to focus on something very complex. The TV show hacker stereotype is true for me.

sawjet  6 years ago

I have a pair of SE215Bs that have been going strong for over 10 years of using them for working out, and travelling. They have even survived a few trips in the washer and dryer. One of the best parts is that the monitors have a connector between themselves and the actual cable, in case the cable wears out over time you can replace it, or upgrade to the bluetooth adapter that shure sells. The Foam tips don't work as well as they did when they are new but I can get replacements if I needed. I now prefer my Bose QC35 but I always bring the Shures as a backup.

  • Raphmedia  6 years ago

    I also have the Bose QC35 but I found them unsatisfying when in an open office. They do filter out the noise from the HVAC system which is nice.

    I mostly use them when commuting by bus or walking in the street.

    • dijit  6 years ago

      They're super -SUPER- good on aeroplanes. It makes flying not nearly as draining.