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Product summary
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.
Specifications: Product type: Headphones ; Design: Ear-cup ; Weight: 5.8 oz ; See full specs
Price range: $30.95 - $59.95 check prices
CNET editors' review
- Reviewed on: 01/19/2007
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.

As is indicated by the product name, the JVC HA-NC80 headphones offer an active noise-canceling mode. JVC asserts that the 'phones offer as much as 75 percent noise reduction. We have no way to measure that accurately, but the HA-NC80s did a good job eliminating the noise from our office ventilation system, as well as some hum from a nearby server. The headphones actually have two modes for reduction: Low, meant for bus and train rumblings; and Wide, which will take care of that pesky airplane engine noise. In any case, neither mode will block out higher-frequency noises, such as the clickity-clack of a neighbor's keyboard.
On the sound-quality tip, the JVC HA-NC80s do a surprisingly decent job. I wouldn't call it fantastic, but when paired with a Creative Zen V Plus, the headphones provided clear highs and a balanced midrange. Even low-end response was decent, though bass addicts may not be entirely satisfied. All in all, I was most pleased with the performance for rock and midtempo electronica. Rated battery life with the noise cancellation turned on is a respectable 25 hours.
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Where to buy
JVC HA-NC80 Noise Canceling Headphones:
$30.95 - $59.95
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
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$30.95 | Yes |
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Amazon.com Marketplace
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$59.95 | Yes |
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$37.95 | Yes |
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$39.99 | Yes |
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$33.99 | Yes |
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