Summary: I had previous purchased noise cancelling headphones that cost 1/3 as much as these and they performed so poorly I returned them so I started thinking about biting the bullet and spending $big for Bose.

Then I read a review in the Wall Street Journal (June, 2007) comparing Bose, Panasonic and the ATH-ANC7s. In terms of performance, Bose and the ATH-ANC7s came out on top. The reviewer could tell little difference between how they sounded and concluded that the lower price for the ATH-ANC7s put them in the winner's column. After reading the review, I went to Best Buy and tried out the Bose headphones and was really impressed with them. But, thinking about the Wall Street Journal's reviewer comments regarding sound quality, I ordered the ATH-ANC7s and hoped that what I read was true.

The reviewer was correct! After trying out the headphones using several different sound sources, I'm really happy that I didn't spend the extra money for Bose. These are Bose on a budget and I really like them.

Summary: I have previously owned Sony noise canceling earbuds ~2002, and am glad to report that the technology has advanced since then. These headphones strike an acceptable compromise between audio quality, size, noise reduction, and price. They are a godsend for anyone who commutes via bus, train, or plane.

Summary: Comfortable, durable headset that gives great bass response and does an excellent job of noise canceling, with or without the white noise generator. I use them all the time when I need to separate myself from noises/distractions around me. Reasonablly priced compared to other headphones of similar quality. Highly recommended!