What is Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)?

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a technology that helps reduce unwanted background sounds, improving your listening experience. You’ll find this technology in headphones, earphones, and some high-quality audio devices.

ANC uses built-in microphones to listen for outside noises, like traffic, airplane sounds, or conversations in a crowded place. When the device picks up these noise, it creates sound waves that are the opposite of the noise. When these two sound waves meet, they cancel each other out. This process is called destructive interference. As a result, you hear much less background noise, allowing you to enjoy your audio without distractions.

There are two main types of noise cancellation: passive and active. Passive noise cancellation blocks sounds using the physical design of the headphones, such as cushioned ear cups. In contrast, active noise cancellation uses electronic methods to reduce noise. Many modern ANC headphones let you adjust the level of noise cancellation. This feature is helpful when you need to be aware of your surroundings.

ANC offers more than just clearer sound. It can also help reduce listening fatigue and protect your hearing by allowing you to listen at lower volumes, even in noisy areas. Overall, active noise cancellation is a key development in audio technology, meeting the needs of users who want a better, uninterrupted listening experience.