What can I do to cancel the noise?

  • Thread starter Thread starter WiFO215
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Noise
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to cancel or reduce noise in environments with distractions, particularly for studying. Participants explore various solutions, including wearable devices, headphones, and alternative sound masking techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about creating a wearable device to block out surrounding noise while studying.
  • Several links to commercial products, including earplugs and headphones, are shared as potential solutions.
  • Another participant mentions devices that cancel sound waves dynamically by producing opposing waves.
  • Some participants suggest eliminating the noise source as a straightforward solution.
  • Concerns are raised about the effectiveness of earplugs due to sound transmission through bone.
  • External sound-canceling headphones are noted to be effective but may cause discomfort over time.
  • One participant highlights that different types of noise (high-pitched vs. low hums) may require different approaches for effective cancellation.
  • Music is proposed as a way to mask noise, with some advocating for white noise or other non-distinct sounds to aid concentration.
  • There is skepticism expressed about the value of Bose headphones, with suggestions that cheaper alternatives may perform better.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the effectiveness of various noise-canceling methods, with no clear consensus on the best approach. Some advocate for commercial products, while others emphasize the importance of eliminating noise sources or using alternative sound masking techniques.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the limitations of certain noise-canceling methods, such as the effectiveness of earplugs and the comfort of headphones, without resolving these issues.

WiFO215
Messages
417
Reaction score
1
Is there any way I can build/make something that I can wear that prevents me from hearing what's going on around me? When I study, there are so many noises because of vehicles moving downstairs, TV on loud etc. What can I do to cancel the noise?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Computer science news on Phys.org


There are devices which cancel the sound wave dynamically. They produce a wave in phase opposition constantly.
 


Ear plugs don't work as well because sound can travel quite well through the bone behind your ear.

Either buy something like the set of earphones in the link above or find a new location.
 


External sound cancelling, over-the-ear headphones are good, but make sure they're good, they get sweaty after long periods.
 


The over-ear ones I have that don't have active canceling are pretty good for higher pitched sounds, but low hums such as the bus engine or something goes through easily. It depends on what the source of your noise is.
 


Why don't you just put some music on to drown out the noise?
 


cristo said:
Why don't you just put some music on to drown out the noise?

White (or other color) noise is better. Something like waterfall, that doesn't let you concentrate on the sound (no distinct pattern), but hides everything else.
 
  • #10


rootX said:

HAHAHAHAHA! I really want to do that.

But at everyone else. I checked out the Bose headphones. In my city they are 17,000Rs ($4250)! Thats stupid. I don't want music in the background. I just want quiet. No noise. No nothing!
 
  • #11


Bose headphones are REALLY overrated. There are much cheaper headphones out there that are even better. Go read some reviews. I would strongly suggest against getting Bose, especially if they are that expensive.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
17
Views
6K
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 35 ·
2
Replies
35
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
13K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
5K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K