In the air and on the ground, the world is noisy. Passengers in jets typically experience sound pressure levels from 75 to 85 dBA (a decibel measure that is "weighted" to better represent the frequency response of human hearing). Commuter turboprops are even noisier, with levels near 90 dBA. A subway car making a stop measures in at approximately 100 dBA, and general subway noise at the platform is 90 dBA or higher. While limited exposure to noise at these levels may not be harmful, it can be stressful and annoying.

Bose QuietComfort 3 headphones reduce unwanted high- and low-frequency noise -- from screeches to rumbles -- with dramatic amounts of attenuation across the range of human hearing. Independent research studies confirm a correlation between noise, human fatigue, reduced productivity and stress symptoms. Aircraft roar -- especially for many hours over a long flight -- can be distracting, affecting the way people hear and feel.

QuietComfort headphones were originally designed to make air travel more pleasant, allowing consumers to enjoy in-flight entertainment or their own music from practically any portable programming device. Over the years, consumers have discovered other applications for listening to QuietComfort headphones: in the home, office, commuting, or almost anywhere a high-quality audio experience is desired.