If you buy this same thing in the medical equipment section it costs over a hundred dollars. So, the noise cancelling appears to be passive and not active DSP (Digital Signal Processing). I hardwired it to my Rav and could only do so to the right of my car. I have some Panasonic headphones that I was only going to replace because the foam on the ear pieces was disintegrating. Lets not forget the never-ending string of hair-thin wax that occurs when readying the stick for application. These are so similar to pampers now(not a good thing) i bought this headphone in 3K. AND, for me, I dont like bringing a ton of attention to myself when Im in a hallway with the loud clicking of heels - these have a rubbery bottom so they dont make a ton of noise which I love. Maybe size up to allow for socks if needed. ) for 1/3 of the cost.