JBL Reference 510 Headphones

I got the JBL Reference 510 Active Noise reduction headphones at Costco using a $50 off coupon which made the final cost $49. To compare these headphones with Bose or Stienhouser noise reduction headphones would be unfair since those headphones would be 3X to 8X more expensive. The JBL headphones have a separate noise reduction component in line instead of in the headphones. This reduces the weight of the on head portion, but they are still heavy. The on the ear speakers fit comfortable and are very adjustable in head diameter and ear angle. The noise reduction appears to work well, but I have not done a good direct comparison in the same background environment with the Bose or Steinhouser headphones. My guess currently is they are not quite as good, but not bad at all. I did get some electronic filtering of low bass elements (in soundtracks) which appears to be linked to the noise reduction. However, this was in a home setting. In a truly high background noise environment (plane), I am not sure that could have been detected. FOR THE MONEY, they are probably worth a try for the occasional user. If you are on a plane monthly or more, spend the extra and consider the Steinhousers....or break the bank and go with the Bose.