Panasonic RP-HC55

The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC3 headphones are another set of active-cancellers, so this is probably the most meaningful comparison here. Panasonic will probably be happy to know that we’d recommend the RP-HC55s over the ATH-ANC3s in most cases. The ATH-ANC3s are far more easy and comfortable to wear since the pendant can easily fit in your front pocket. The RP-HC55s have negligibly better audio quality and can isolate better, have a ridiculously long battery life, and are quite a bit cheaper. If comfort is paramount, then the ATH-ANC3s are the definite winner. If isolation and price matter, go for the RP-HC55s.

The Shure SE420s are better headphones in just about every way, including isolation, but they cost a lot more than the RP-HC55s. While we think the SE420s are a good price for what they offer, we realize that a $200 set of in-ears isn’t for everyone. The determining factor in this matchup is your budget and your budget alone.

The Denon AH-NC732s are great headphones both in your home and out. The RP-HC55s actually perform their worst in a quiet environment, because the noise their active cancellation creates will be a bit grating. The RP-HC55s did out-perform the AH-NC732s in terms of active-cancellation prowess, but you’ll get a lot more mileage out of a pair of AH-NC732s and with no pendant to deal with. This match-up comes down to a few things, but the most important factor will likely be budget: the AH-NC732s, at $300, are simply too expensive for the average user.

The MM 50 iPs are a great set of in-ears. They don’t block out the most sound, but they have great sound quality for a set of in-ears and a tiny little control pendant as well. Further, they’re inexpensive. For around $80, just a bit more than the RP-HC55s, you’ll get a lot more for your money. The only area where the RP-HC55 trumps the MM 50 iPs is in isolation, but we don’t believe that one area of success covers enough ground on its own. The MM 50 iPs win here.