I work as a ships engineer and was so impressed with the nc1000ch that I lent them to my daughter who is a flight attendant to try out on her flight home. She called me as soon as she landed telling me they are awesome not only that but the some of the passengers tried them on and it impressed all who tried them. Those who have Bose quiet 3 said these nc1000ch were made much better.The three piece construction of the headgear makes a durable and comfortable fit. two triple batteries , noise canceling switch, and cable connection are all on/in the left ear piece. The reduction of outside noise is good that turn the noise canceling switch on and it goes from good to GREAT. So even if your batteries go dead you can still get outside noise reduction and good sound. all I can say I think I will my daughter her own for her birthday so I can get mine back