Design and features:This noise-canceling portable in-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. However, 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 medium-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 comes with five sets of earpieces of various sizes and types, detachable ear loops, a mini-plug-to-airplane-jack adapter, and a carrying pouch.
Sound quality: We found that the HA-NCX78 delivers very good noise reduction and good sound. Overall the character was on the warm side. Bass had good impact but was boomy with so-so definition. Midrange was slightly recessed and somewhat lacking in detail, and treble was recessed and rolled-off, though less so with the noise-reduction circuitry shut off.
Comfort: We found that these earphones produced a sense of pressure in the opening that might be uncomfortable for some. The earphones fit well and stay in place if you clip the cord-mounted noise-reduction unit to your shirt; otherwise, it pulls on the earphones.
