How do these compare to mainstream earbuds?

XTRA 2.0 is a safety product, first and foremost. It blocks 27 dB of sound coming into your ear from the environment and limits the audio output into your ear to 85 dB. Some non-safety headphones can have a maximum volume output between 100-115 dB.

What's the difference between noise-cancelling and noise-isolating?

XTRA 2.0 is a noise-isolating ear protector, meaning it blocks noise with a physical barrier (earplug) while wearing the product. Alternatively, noise-cancelling products produce an inverse sound wave to reduce noise while the product is turned on.

How do I get the best fit from the foam earplugs?

Properly inserting your eartips provides better noise reduction and superior sound quality: Compress the foam eartip for 5 sec, pull up on your ear to open your ear canal, insert the plug into your ear and hold for 15 sec while the foam expands.

Are the silicone eartips the same for hearing protection?

The eartips that come with ISOtunes earbuds have been tested for a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). The XTRA 2.0 has a NRR of 27 dB while using the foam eartips or a NRR of 24 dB while using triple flange silicone eartips.

Can I use these at work?

XTRA 2.0 is an OSHA compliant hearing protector with an ANSI-Certified NRR of 27 dB and they are Bluetooth enabled for phone calls and radio communication. Please abide by the rules established by your place of employment.