What is the difference between ENC and ANC! Audio Technology

Audio technology has come a long way in recent years, and with the rise of wireless and portable devices, noise-cancelling has become an essential feature for many people. However, while the terms ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) and ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. In this article, we'll explore the differences between ENC and ANC and how they work to give you a better understanding of these technologies.

What is ANC?

Active Noise Cancellation, or ANC, is a technology that uses microphones and signal processing to cancel out external noise. It works by analyzing the sound waves around you and producing an opposite waveform that effectively "cancels out" the external noise. This waveform is then fed into your ear through your headphones, so you only hear the sound you want to hear.

ANC is typically used in headphones and earbuds, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years. The technology has improved significantly, and ANC headphones can now block out a wide range of noises, from the low rumble of an aeroplane engine to the high-pitched whine of a dentist's drill.

What is ENC?

Environmental Noise Cancellation, or ENC, is a newer technology that takes ANC a step further. Rather than just cancelling out external noise, ENC also actively monitors your environment and adjusts the audio output accordingly. This means that if you're in a noisy environment, your headphones will automatically adjust the volume and equalization to optimize your listening experience.

ENC technology uses multiple microphones to monitor your environment and can filter out ambient noise while preserving speech and other important sounds. This makes it a popular feature in headsets for professionals who need to make calls in noisy environments.

ENC vs. ANC: What's the difference?

The main difference between ENC and ANC is that ENC actively monitors your environment and adjusts the audio output accordingly, while ANC simply cancels out external noise. ANC is effective at blocking out constant, low-frequency noise like the hum of an aeroplane engine, while ENC is more effective at reducing intermittent, unpredictable noise like the sound of a car horn or a nearby conversation.

In addition, ANC is better at blocking out noise when you're stationary, while ENC is better at adapting to changing environments. For example, if you're walking down a busy street, ENC can adjust the audio output to filter out the noise of passing cars and people talking, while ANC might struggle to keep up with the changing soundscape.

Which one is right for you?

Both ANC and ENC have their strengths and weaknesses, so which one is right for you depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for headphones that can block out the constant noise of an aeroplane or a busy office, ANC is probably the way to go. On the other hand, if you need a headset for making calls in noisy environments, ENC might be a better choice.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try out different headphones and headsets with both technologies and see which one works best for you. Whether you choose ANC or ENC, these technologies can significantly improve your audio experience, making it easier to focus, relax, or stay connected in noisy environments.