Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) headphone FAQs

Q: How do ANC headphones work?

A: (ANC) Active Noise Cancellation in a headphone works by listening to an external sound using their inbuilt microphones and then generating an (anti-wave), or as some would say a sound wave that is the exact mirror image (inverted phase) of the incoming sound. When the two waves meet, they cancel each other out.

Q: Does ANC block all noise, or just certain types?

A: Generally speaking, the digital signal processor (DSP) software, is designed for and most effective on low-frequency sounds i.e. (Airplane or public transport rumble), or for that matter the sounds of air-conditioning units at work or at home. Basically, every day low-frequency noise that is experienced inside or outside. High-frequency sounds like smoke alarms, voices or keyboard clicks are not impacted in the same way as low-frequency sounds.

Q: What's the difference between ANC and passive noise isolation?

A: As mentioned above ANC headphones use digital signal processor (DSP) software. Passive noise isolation on the other hand is achieved when typically using a headphone with a closed capsule over-ear design where the outer capsule of the headphone sits firmly over the ears, thus attenuating (reducing) the noticeable external noise level. That said, passive noise isolation can also be achieved when using a closed capsule headphone, or an earphone with ear tips that fit firmly into the ear canal creating a good seal.

Q: What is Transparency Mode?

A: Transparency mode is a feature in headphones that deliberately allows ambient sounds to pass through. Instead of completely isolating you from your surroundings, transparency mode in headphones ensures that you can still hear important sounds – such as announcements, conversations or traffic. This is especially useful in everyday life, for example when commuting, at the office or walking through the city.

Q: Do ANC headphones work better over-ear, on-ear or in-ear?

A: Perhaps a question that can have several answers, there is (no one size fits all) answer; so, let’s look at the design options, the benefits of each, and wearing comfort. First and foremost, wearing comfort needs to be considered, if you prefer a lightweight earphone over a larger headphone then this is your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer wearing a larger headphone that allows for the capsule (ear-cup) to completely fit over your ear, then this is the better design option. That said, a lightweight on-ear design headphone may feel more comfortable to wear, especially over many hours of use.

Over-ear: A larger capsule (ear cup) design with ANC excels at blocking out low-frequency sounds. This design generally incorporates a lush and firm earpad, allowing for passive isolation to naturally block higher frequencies before the ANC process starts to work. Subjectively many people would say that they are extremely comfortable for hours of use at home, work, or on long-haul flights, as nothing is inserted directly into your ear canal.

In-ear: Using an ANC earphone with ear tips that fit firmly into the ear canal that create a good seal can offer the best of both worlds due to the fact that they are highly efficient at passively blocking out higher-pitched ambient noise like chatter or office sounds, working hand in hand with ANC for handling low-frequency sounds. The in-ear design is also compact and convenient for daily use.

On-ear: Although they may not offer the same level of sound isolation as a larger over-ear design, on-ear ANC headphones still offer a level of passive isolation to naturally block higher frequencies before the ANC process starts to work. Subjectively many people may say that they are more comfortable to wear for hours of use since they are lighter in weight and make less surface contact on their face or hair.

Q: Is it safe to use ANC while walking, running, or driving a car? 

A: No. As a matter of caution, it is not recommended for all outdoor applications and/or environments. Complete noise cancellation can block out essential safety cues like traffic noise, alarms and other types of audible alerts. We always recommend a level of spatial (environmental) awareness.

Q: Is ANC bad for my ears? 

A: No. ANC itself is safe to use; simply put ANC eliminates low-frequency background noise that is already present.

Q: Does ANC drain the battery?

A: Yes. Powering the microphones and computing processors will draw power from your battery. It is worth noting that with our (AVENTHO) headphones you can still listen to music even when the battery has been depleted with the included 3.5mm to 3.5mm analogue cable provided, but with the ANC function off.