The headphones' noise-canceling circuit senses outside noise using tiny, built-in microphones and sends an equal-but-opposite canceling signal to the headphone drivers, effectively blocking solid-state (continuous) noise from 40 to 1,500 Hz. It's especially effective on noises like air-conditioning systems, freeway rumble, and airplane engines (from a passenger's perspective).

The switchable noise-canceling circuitry runs for approximately 30 hours on a single AAA alkaline battery. When noise canceling is off, the headphones continue to function for standard music listening (and with slightly better sound quality). The headphones' neodymium-magnet diaphragms deliver powerful sound.

The headphones and their swiveling earcups fold for easy storage, and a special supplied adapter facilitates use of the headphones with an airplane's audio system.