Are you one of those people who works better with background noise? I am. Especially in the shop, music helps me stay focused. But when I’m machining wood, I have my hearing protection on—so my music might as well be off. This is where the new 3M WorkTunes Connect Wireless Hearing Protector with Bluetooth has been a boon.

The headphones have a Noise Reduction Rating of 24 decibels, which kept shop sounds at bay without completely muting them. And the audio quality was fine with anything I played, whether aggressive metal or plaintive R&B. The headphones are really comfortable, too.

The one-button control is a bit of a drawback since you can’t adjust the volume using the headphones (you have to use your device). The button’s controls, though, are straightforward: One click pauses and plays the music, two clicks advance the track, and three clicks goes to the previous track. The Bluetooth’s range is about 35 ft. and you can receive calls using the headphones as well.
—Barry NM Dima is an associate editor.

More on FineWoodworking.com:

• All About safety Equipment
• Sound advice – Smart new plugs and muffs leave you no excuse for unprotected ears
• Protect Your Hearing in the Shop – Choose ear protection that’s comfortable, and learn how to use it correctly

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