Noise-canceling headphones have become popular with commuters and frequent fliers, but the better ones are pricey. Sony currently offers four noise-canceling (NC) headphones, including the $59 list MDR-NC6, one of the most affordable models on the market.
The lightweight, 5.3-ounce headphones are nicely finished and fold up for compact storage in the provided soft leatherette carry pouch. The foam-padded earpieces applied moderate pressure to our ears, and we found the NC6s to be fairly comfortable, though the 50-inch-long cable was a little unwieldy for portable use. We stuffed the extra wire in our pocket.
The NC circuitry runs on a single AAA battery that clips into the headband; Sony claims the battery will last 15 to 30 hours. You can, of course, turn off the NC circuitry and use the NC6s like standard headphones. A supplied plug adapter connects the NC6s to the dual jack of in-flight music services, and Sony throws in a travel pouch as well.
