Custom Ear Buds Compete With Noise Cancelling Headphones

Justin Kerr — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 21:51:48 -0500

As most audiophiles know, picking a new pair of headphones can be a very personal experience. At least, that’s what a new Canadian firm named Soundcage is hoping. They are one of the first companies promoting a revolutionary new concept of creating a custom ear bud that fits directly inside the ear cavity. This allows them to block outside noise and creates an air tight seal. Presumably this would allow the headphones to mirror the noise cancelling typically offered only in larger and more expensive headphone solutions that involve using white noise to mask outside sounds. It only takes about 10 minutes to be fitted with the new ear buds, and is an evolution of Soundcage’s roots, which involved making custom earplugs for factory workers. With such a tight seal around the inner ear, the clarity of sound promises to be impressive. Early testimonies describe the audio quality as “hauntingly pure”. Additionally, the headphones carry the advantage of being made to fit you, and only you. So unlike my noise cancelling headphones, I wouldn’t have to loan them to my girlfriend every time we fly, a definite bonus. They are expected to retail for around $199 CDN, and we have no word yet on any US availability. But if the hype holds true, expect capitalism to bring these puppies to a store near you in the not so distant future.

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Custom Ear Buds Compete With Noise Cancelling Headphones