Noise-cancelling earphones have been taken to new levels by a Dutch start-up who have created adjustable earphones that can control the amount of noise you want to let in.
Knops have just surpassed their funding goal on crowd-funding site Indiegogo, and provide a unique approach to noise-cancelling technology in that they require no batteries.
Instead, turning the switch in each earpiece changes the settings on the built-in acoustic filters, cutting out different levels of outside noise they let in.
There are four ‘steps’ to Knops – the highest of which cuts out all but the loudest noises – while step one offers minimal blockage, two reduces city noise and step three is designed to lessen the impact of live music.
As well as the obvious focus on ear health, there’s an element of fashion to Knops too, with the Indiegogo page showcasing a number of different colour designs and finishes for those who want to remain stylish while protecting their hearing.
