I need a pair of NC headphones for some long flights to Europe. I almost bought another brand which was very cheap $19.95 but I chose the Sony 22 because at least the battery life would be better than the cheap ones. Also, I figured I'd return them if they sounded really bad. From other reviews here I wasn't expecting great performance unless I use it in NC mode but I was pleasantly surprised. Without NC activation, they sound almost as good as the headphones that came with the Sony MP3 player (800 series player) and almost as good as my V-Moda Vibes. They sounded even better with NC. I ordered a second pair of pink for my daughter. I have other versions (over the ear) of Sony NC headphones and they don't sound as good. It might be the headphone design that makes the difference. Based on the latest prices from Amazon and Staples, Sony may be preparing to discontinue these phones. So if you want a pair with an earbud design, get it now. Best Buy no longer sells the NC22 and has replaced it with a different Sony headphone design. Fry's Electronics didn't have them either. They're not the most expensive, but probably the best value for money. Update - 04/22/08. We have just returned from a recent trip to Europe. Have used the phones for over 30 hours on 1 AAA battery and the performance has been amazing. Most impressive was the plane with Air France's in-flight entertainment system. Also used on the Eurostar train from London to Paris and on the coach. I will never go without her again. I watched six films in one flight and felt like I was sitting in my living room. Great job Sony! Update 5/5/08 Runs 10 more hours on the same battery. So now a total of over 50 hours on a single battery. Also, I used headphones while running the backpack fan and the noise cancellation was amazing. Even better than the earmuffs I used. Update - 09/22/2011 - I am still using these headphones and they still work great.
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