NoiseBuster Hearing Protectors

WOOD magazine rating
Average reader rating
4.4
out of 5
Brand:
NoiseBuster
Model:
PA4000
Price:
$149

Description

*On/off switch and power indicator
*Stereo input 3.5 mm audio jack
*Up to 65 hours of use on a single AA battery
*Adjustable, comfort-fit headband
*Resistant to water and moisture, contaminants, mechanical shock and vibration

WOOD magazine review

hearing protection that cancels shop noise

Review Summary

Even if the Noisebuster muffs did not have electronic capabilities, they’d still be exceptional, comfortable passive muffs. Noisebuster uses a noise-canceling technology that samples the sounds around you with a built-in microphone, and then replicates sound waves exactly opposite of the harmful ones. This effectively reduces noise—especially hard-to-tame low frequencies—to below the danger level of 85 dB before it reaches your ears.
It proves so effective at blocking dangerous noise levels that we were blown away. Although there’s no built-in radio, the Noisebuster does have an input jack for an MP3 player or iPod.

Detailed Ratings

4.8
out of 5

Performance

5

Features

5

Ease of Use

5

Value

4

Reader Reviews

Remember to turn it off...

Review Summary

It's now a couple of years on since I did the original review of this muff-style hearing protector I'm still as happy with it as when I first took delivery of it. Its noise cancelling technology is most apparent when you're at the planer. When chewing through big wide boards the noise levels in the shop can spike to between 115 to 120 decibels. The NoiseBusters are rated at 26db of attenuation, making the noise level at my ears be between 90 and 100 decibels.
That's still too loud, and can still result in hearing damage if you're exposed to it for only two to three hours. But when you engage the noise cancelling button on the muff it samples the outside noise and sends a copy to your ears 20dB lower in volume and 180° out of phase with the ambient noise. That further tames the sound and brings the volume level at my ears to within OSHA standards for the duration of time that I'm generally using the plane. My ears are thankful for it! My one and only knock is about ME, not the muffs. I keep forgetting to turn the noise-cancelling switch off, making me eat through batteries. Oh well - it's just one AA battery and I think I can live with that. **Note to self: must remember to push the button when I'm done using the muffs!!!** These are good muffs. I've gone shooting with them and they're my go-to muffs in the shop. They're great for both.

Detailed Ratings

4.8
out of 5

Performance

5

Features

5

Ease of Use

5

Value

4

I'm Satisfied (this time)

Review Summary

The first thing I noticed was they are a little heavier than my Peltor Tunes. The second thing was, yes they do have better noise reduction....I can hear my music at a lower volume. BUT, I was getting intermittent static in one of the speakers and the batteries would only last 6-8 hours. I definitely had a bad set. I ordered mine directly from the manufacturer. They did exchange them for a new set, but their customer service was aggravating to deal with.
They didn't offer information (if, how, and when I would be reimbursed for my return shipping cost)...I had to pry it out of them. It would be nice if they had a volume control on the headset. They are hot and heavy, but I guess that's to be expected with earmuffs. To sum it up....If I had these Noise Busters and some Peltor Tunes on hand to compare, I would have gone with the Peltor Tunes. I can tell there is a difference in performance (probably more than I realize), but IMO, not enough to warrant the extra cost. If you decide to get some, go through Amazon, or anybody but Pro Tech Technologies. If there is a problem, you'll avoid their aggravating customer service.

Detailed Ratings

4.0
out of 5

Performance

5

Features

3

Ease of Use

5

Value

3

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