Noise Canceling Headphones

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- Aaron Accetta is a musician. For him, noise canceling headphones are essential.

"In noisy environments it makes a ton of difference," he says.

Ten headphones with active noise-canceling were tested in a sealed and soundproof room called an anechoic chamber.

A specially designed mannequin measures how well each headphone reduces noise and how good the music sounds.

Testers also evaluated noise reduction and sound quality. But Consumer Reports says choosing a pair of headphones isn't that simple.

Rich Sulin says, "There are different types of headphones, different shapes, different sizes, and of course, price. So, you want to consider all those things."

Aaron's pair from Bose is an over-the-ear type that surrounds the entire ear. The design helps seal out noise.

And tests show they do a great job of reducing it too. But at almost $300 they're pricey.

There are less expensive headphones that sit on top of your ear. A of pair of Sony headphones performed well in tests. The design lets in a bit more outside noise.

Tests found insert-style headphones can offer the best of both worlds. They fit in the ear canal so they naturally block off sound.

"However, a lot of people just don't like having something placed in their ear. But, if that doesn't bother you, they are a good option," Rich says.

Another plus, they're relatively small so you can take them anywhere. Testers recommend the Panasonic insert headphones. They were top rated, but at $60 they were also a Consumer Reports best buy.