Philips has launched its NC1 noise-cancelling headphones, part of its high-end Fidelio range, in the Australian market.The NC1s are the first in the range to feature Philips’ Active Noise Cancellation technology, with the headphones blocking out ambient noise (such as when travelling), converting background noise into silence via a hybrid noise cancellation approach.
Active Noise Cancellation can be used as desired, with a smart power solution allowing users to continue to use the headphones even when the feature is not required.
“Four microphones are used to detect ambient noise, from which the signals are then inverted, effectively cancelling out and converting background noise to silence,” Philips explains.
“Two ‘FeedBackward’ microphones that are next to the headphone drivers provide strong noise cancellation at low frequencies, whilst the two ‘FeedForward’ microphones positioned on the outside of the headphone extend the bandwidth of noise cancellation into the mid-and-high-frequencies.”
Having been acknowledged with a 2015 iF Design Award, the compact, fully foldable and lightweight NC1s have been designed with travellers in mind, with the memory foam ear pads designed to provide an “ergonomic fit, great comfort and breathability”.
The battery lasts for up to 30 hours before needing a recharge via USB cable, while a built-in microphone and pick-up button also means calls can be taken when the NC1s are connected to a mobile device.
The NC1s are available now for $349 from Dick Smith, Harvey Norman, and JR/Duty Free.
