Sennheiser PXC 250

Light, foldable and including a carry pouch, the PXC-250 is closed type headset.  Signed by Sennheiser, there is an active noise reduction system which enables listening to music even in the noisiest surroundings.  Given that this brand's reputation for audio quality is already well established, what's the value of NoiseGard  technology ?

Ergonomics: The first disappointment was the change of the rigid plastic casing (see PX100) in favor of a soft belt attachable version which unfortunately offers less protection against shocks.  But here we were just being a little nostalgic...These headphones are still foldable and the pouch is very practical.  As is usually the case with Sennheiser, finishing touches are excellent and we really can't say much else.  They are very light (58g) and the padding makes them entirely comfortable to wear. 

The only other weakness in ergonomics concerns the noise compensation module.  With its two AAA batteries in a 13.5 cm long separate component, it's very (too ?) encumbering.  Even if you can do without it when listening to music, it will have to be carried around with you. 

Finally, note that in addition to the carry pouch, there is a 6.3 mm and double mono airplane jack adaptor.

Audio quality: True to its name, audio quality isn't disappointing.  Sound is homogenous and basses are well established without affecting the rest of the profile.  Highs are slightly underrepresented ; however, overall audio quality is currently what is best in this product class. 

So how about NoiseGard  technology? Our offices have multiple PC fans and there is drilling on the floor above.  In other words, there is definitely ambient noise.    Once the NoiseGard function was activated, this was strongly reduced.  It's a truly appreciable effect, as if we are in a  sort of bubble.  On the other hand, the problem with this technology is that it generates a non negligible noise in the background of music.  It's something we consistently heard and  could be bothersome for some listeners.