Design and features:This portable, noise-canceling on-ear model will work with or without the noise-canceling feature being turned on; you can use the noise-canceling feature without listening to music. The audio cable can retract into the left headphone, so it's out of the way when the headphones are being used for noise reduction only. The closed design and electronic noise-canceling feature reduce both outside noise and sound leaking out into your environment. The headphones have high sensitivity regardless of whether the noise-canceling feature is turned on or off, so they can provide satisfying volume levels when used with home audio equipment and even lower-powered portable audio devices. This model also has a volume-limiting switch that reduces the headphones' sensitivity, which can keep them from playing too loudly when used with high-powered airline audio systems. This model comes with a mini-plug-to-airplane-jack adapter and a carrying pouch.
Sound quality: We found that the HA-NC120 delivers good overall sound with a warm character, though its active noise reduction capability was only fair. Bass has decent definition, but it doesn't go deep and impact is somewhat lacking. Midrange is pronounced, noticeably congested, and a bit nasal and grainy. Treble is dry, and upper treble is rolled off. Overall sound is closed in, with so-so dynamics. The sound quality was the same regardless of whether the noise reduction circuitry was turned on or off.
Comfort: We found that these headphones were generally comfortable, with some sense of pressure on the ears. The vinyl ear pads might feel hot and/or sticky after prolonged use.
