Koss QZ-2000 Active Noise Reduction Stereophone

Using a sophisticated system of noise cancellation, the QZ/2000 headset significantly reduces the perceived noise level of static low-frequency sounds. In doing so, the headphones also cancel a portion of the music at those frequencies, but the net effect is unquestionably improved clarity in your music. The QZ/2000 works well for general noise dimming, even if you don't intend to listen to anything. Just put them on, switch the noise cancellation on, and enjoy your quieter environment.

Sometimes the absence of one noise reveals another, previously unnoticed noise (usually a high-frequency tone), which can be distracting. But by and large, we found the QZ/2000 effective at reducing noise from air conditioners, freeway traffic, and even general office din. Most pleasing is the Quiet Zone effect on listening to music at low levels: with less environmental noise, music can be heard more cleanly and more fully at lower volumes, so it sounds better and is also safer.

As headphones, the Quiet Zone 2000s are decent, though not great--clearly, you're paying for the noise reduction here. The 'phones are mellow and full-bodied, if slightly muddy, with little in the way of high-frequency detail. This last factor also keeps any sense of harshness out of the program--not such a bad thing, given the strident nature of many headphones.

While the QZ/2000 claims to reduce high-frequency noise as well as low, we detected very little noise reduction in the bass range. But for general noise reduction and relaxing in-flight listening, the Quiet Zone QZ/2000 is just the ticket.

Pros:

• Cancels noise well
• Enhances clarity
• Lightweight
• Works with or without music playing

Cons:

• Mediocre sound quality
• Slightly awkward fit