Creative sounds off with two noise-canceling headphones
updated 06:00 pm EST, Fri February 3, 2012
HN-900 & Aurvana X-Fi 2 cancel noise by 85 percent
Creative has introduced a pair of noise-canceling headphones. The HN-900 integrates an in-line microphone with the over-the-ear headset. The Aurvana X-Fi 2 is a pure headphone, but supports a multi-dimensional surround-sound effect.
The HN-900 uses uses microphones embedded within the ear cups to measure the surrounding sound and then electronically eliminate the ambient noise by up to 85 percent. The headphones have paired 40mm (1.6-inch) Neodymium magnet drivers with a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz. The noise reduction is rated at -18dB of active cancellation. A single AAA alkaline battery can run the headphones' noise reduction for up to 40 hours before needing replacement. If the battery runs out the headphones will still work passively without the noise cancellation. The ear cups of the headphones fold flat for storage in an included travel pouch.
The higher-end Aurvana X-Fi 2 offers higher performance noise cancellation capabilities. It offsets ambient sounds with -20dB sensitivity. Battery life is up to nine hours when using the enhanced audio effects.
The HN-900, available now, is priced at $100. The Aurvana X-Fi 2 will retail for $200 when shipping begins shortly. [via CNET]
Aurvana X-Fi 2
