I wanted to purchase a decent set of noise canceling headphones to help block background noise while I study. After doing some research, it was evident that any real noise canceling headphones worth having were going to be over $100. That was not in my budget, so I opted to look for noise reducing headphones. Enter the JVC HA-FX66-R ear buds.

While the description says ‘noise-canceling’, the truth is that these ear buds are noise reducing. There is no active circuitry that cancels out unwanted noise. However, through good design, JVC has successfully designed a set of ear buds that effectively reduce background noise. When configured properly with the appropriately sized ear pieces, these headphones effectively reduce background noise a few DB. Where they are at their best, though, is reducing background noise while reproducing sound.

Where these headphones shine, for me, is the quality of the sound reproduction. With my entry-level Sandisk MP3 player (on the Rock EQ preset), the sound is decently balanced and is as good as could be expected given the quality of the source. On my laptop, which is equipped with a HiDef Audio controller, these headphones really shine. I wont say that they can compare with Bose, but for under $25, I am quite pleasantly surprised.

The bass is full and detailed with excellent extension into the lower registers (rated down to 10Hz). On Hip-Hop and Hard Rock, the bass pounds with authority, but on more intricate works, the bass is clean and detailed, not boomy. The midrange is full-bodied, but can be a little bit muddy on some types of music, mostly hard with heavy layers of guitar, drum and vocals. However, for most listeners, the midrange would be considered ‘warm’ and not too muddy. The highs are clean and detailed. Unlike many headphones of this type, the highs are never harsh or tinny. In fact, you really have to tinker with the EQ to get a pronounced high end out of these headphones. They stay well mannered across a wide range of music and volume. What is truly surprising is how rich their sound is at low volume.

Overall, for the money, these headphones are an excellent value. They effectively reduce background noise enabling you to listen to music at lower volumes while still enjoying your music in full detail. Dollar for dollar, you wont be disappointed with the sound reproduction of these headphones. Just don’t expect true ‘noise-canceling’ functionality out of them and you wont be disappointed.

I bought these headphones from my local CircuitCity. They were on sale for about $25 at the time. Right now, they go for about $35 and I would still gladly pay that much. Shop around to get the best deal, of course, but I’m sure you wont be sorry with these headphones.

You have read my two cents. Now have your say.
What compact “ear bud” headphones do you use?
What would you expect when you read “noise canceling”?
You get what you pay for ~OR~ Smart shopping delivers low price gems?