Worth it

When I first set out to find the perfect Noise-Cancelling headphone, I initially found great reviews for the Bose QuietComfort 2. I instantly fell in love...then I saw the price! At $300 I just couldn't convince myself that it was worth it, but I gave it a chance anyway. I tried on a pair at a Bose center and all the reviews are right, those are some really great headphones. However, I just couldn't justify paying $300 for headphones that I would be using from time to time at work. I saw that Bose was selling the original QC for $200 on their web site and thought that would be enough for me. But...being a technogeek who needs the latest and greatest, even though the original is probably still better than other NC phones, I knew that I would be unsatisfied buying it since there is an newer model out there. Yes, that's how I think...I know it's weird. So anyway, I kept researching and stumbled upon the Sennheiser PXC-250. I'll just say that overall I am very happy with this purchase since the price is much more reasonable.

First of all, the term noise-cancelling is misleading. Sure it cancels noise, but not all noise, so don't expect to turn the unit on and hear nothing but silence. The more appropriate term for units like these is noise-reduction...just keep this in mind so that you don't find yourself disappointed when you can still hear some outside noise. The PXC-250 does an excellent job reducing outside noise to a point where you are comfortable. When you play music through these headphones, the sound is clear and vibrant. This is where the PXC-250 shines. I've tried on some other cheaper units that have sounded muffled or just plain weak. But the Sennheiser performs very well.

If portability is high on your list, then you'll be happy to hear that the PXC-250 folds into a tidy little package. They're very light as well. My only gripe is that they are a little too tight for me, making it uncomfortable to use for a long period of time. That is when I wish I had shelled out $300 for the Bose QC2.

At any rate, I am very happy with this purchase. At $135 including tax and shipping, the price point is very reasonable. If I didn't have to worry about money and portability, I would have gone for the Bose. But like most people, I have to be price conscious. If you're like me, try these out...I'm sure you'll be happy with them.