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JVC HA-NC80 Noise Canceling Headphones review

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CNET Editors' Rating

3.0 stars Good
Review Date:

Average User Rating

2.5 stars 9 user reviews

The good: The JVC HA-NC80 headphones are relatively inexpensive, and they include a dual-prong adapter for in-flight use, as well as a travel pouch.

The bad: The JVC HA-NC80's earcups are on the small side, making the headphones uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The noise-canceling feature affects only low frequency sound.

The bottom line: Frequent fliers operating on a tight budget should consider the JVC HA-NC80 Noise Canceling Headphones, but those with sensitive ears might want to steer clear.

JVC is a decent brand to consider if you're looking for noise-canceling headphones but are working with a limited budget. The company's HA-NC100 headphones, for example, are comfortable, offer solid sound quality, and can be found for less than $80 online. At $49, an even cheaper option is the JVC HA-NC80. These 'phones aren't as comfortable as the NC100s, but they get the job done.

The HA-NC80s' completely circular shape and relatively small 2.5-inch diameter are no doubt responsible for the uncomfortable fit. However, the headphones aren't overly tight--and the earcups have some cushy padding--so those with less sensitive ear cartilage may find them suitably comfortable. The cord is plenty long at 5 feet, but it doesn't retract like that of the HA-NC100. The HA-NC80 headphones fold up flat into a semicircle--it's not the most compact design we've seen, but JVC does include a travel pouch for transport. There's also a dual prong adapter for in-flight use and a AAA battery for the noise cancellation feature.


The JVC HA-NC80s fold up into a half-moon shape.

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Quick Specifications

  • Release date01/12/07
  • Headphones Type Headphones - Binaural
  • Design Ear-cup
  • Weight 5.8 oz
  • Sound output mode [Sep 14, 2011 from CDS: Audio Output] Stereo
  • Connector type Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm
  • Additional features Gold-plated plug Noise canceling circuit Foldable

Since 2003, Jasmine France has worked at CNET covering everything from scanners to keyboards to GPS devices to MP3 players. She currently cohosts the Crave podcast and spends the majority of her time testing headphones, music software, and mobile apps. Full Bio

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