Design and features:This portable, noise-canceling earphone will work without the noise-canceling feature being turned on; you can use the noise-canceling feature without listening to music, but the audio cable can't be detached to get it out of the way when the earphones are being used for noise reduction only. The earplug-like design and electronic noise- canceling feature reduce both outside noise and sound leaking out into your environment. The earphones 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. The ATH-ANC23, which has an inline control box with the noise-canceling circuitry, an on/off switch and volume control, comes four pairs of earpieces of various types and sizes, a mini-plug-to-airplane-jack adapter, and a carrying pouch.
Sound quality: We found that the ATH-ANC23 delivers very good overall sound with a neutral character, though its noise reduction was only fair. Bass has good impact and definition, but lacks some depth. Midrange is a bit grainy, and lacks a bit of openness. Treble is slightly recessed. Overall, these earphones had good dynamics. We noticed a slight audible hiss when noise reduction was engaged, but it disappeared when the circuitry was turned off, and there was no significant change in sound quality.
Comfort: We found that these earphones fit and stay in place with no problems, but a sense of pressure in the ear opening might be uncomfortable for some. The cord-mounted noise-reduction unit is heavy, and it has to be clipped to your clothing to keep it from pulling on the earphones.
