"The Bose QuietComfort 2 headphones are among the few that use active noise reduction technology to eliminate background noise electronically. While they have all the makings of a top contender in this category, the sound reproduction left much to be desired. Still, with the intended audience being a 30+ year old crowd who travel frequently, and those that have a hard time finding a quiet space, the QuietComfort 2's are a great option. The key to these cans lies in the user's lifestyle." I've got to get me a pair. I have a cheap "knockoff" brand (well they are Sony, but they suck) and I still hear the guy in the next row listening to country music. :evil: