Bose QuietComfort 2

Among noise-canceling headphones, nothing beats the Bose QuietComfort series. Although the QuietComfort 2s are larger and bulkier than the QuietComfort 3 (*Est. $350) noise-canceling headphones, reviewers say the QC2s deliver better detail. Both models have active noise cancelation, which puts you beyond the reach of ambient noises such as jet engines. What differentiates the two models is that the QC2 has a closed-back design that offers passive noise cancelation, which some reviewers like, while the QC3 has an open-back design. Once battery power runs out (required for the active noise cancelation), the headphones won't work at all; there's no way to disable active noise canceling in order to conserve battery power. Both experts and users frown on the QC2's premium price.

CNET and the Australian site GoodGearGuide.com give detailed reviews on the QuietComfort 2's performance. The British consumer magazine Which? Also publishes a helpful review based on their testing. PCMag.com gives a short review that confirms the findings of other reviewers, while more than 250 owners weigh in at Amazon.com.