Small enough to keep with you at all times and ideal for achieving peace and quiet in planes, trains, buses, and cars, Sony's MDR-NC6 noise-canceling over-ear headphones reduce perceived outside noise by more than 70 percent (up to 10 dB at 300 Hz) so you can hear musical nuances against a quieter background.

The headphones' noise-canceling circuit senses outside noise using tiny, built-in microphones and sends an equal-but-opposite canceling signal to the headphone drivers, effectively blocking solid-state noise from 40 to 1,500 Hz.

It's especially effective on noises like air-conditioning systems, freeway rumble, and airplane engines.

The switchable noise-canceling circuitry runs for approximately 30 hours on a single AAA alkaline battery.

When noise canceling is off, the headphones continue to function for standard music listening (and with slightly better sound quality).

The headphones' neodymium-magnet diaphragms deliver powerful sound.

* Reduces exterior noise by more than 70 percent (10 dB at 300 Hz) so you can hear music against a quieter background

* Active noise reduction from 40 to 1,500 Hz using 1 AAA battery (not included); extended battery life approximately 30 hours

* Compact size and folding design allows easy storage in a backpack, briefcase, or purse

* Noise-canceling on/off switch; headphones work with or without power

* Includes soft carrying case and airplane adapter plug