that would allow one to go out in a restaurant without feeling bad the next day. Even better if I can go to a concert with them (once I feel better).

Anyone has recommendations?

Thanks

Why does it need to be least conspicuous ? Are you embarrassed to be noise sensitive ? That is anxiety that is counter to your recovery. I've been using the yellow foam ear plugs for 15 years. Hardly anybody ever notices them if I insert them deep as recommended. Nobody has ever said anything about them.

Mack's makes skin tone ear plugs that have a great sound reduction rating.
http://www.amazon.com/Macks-Ear-Care.../dp/B0051U7W32

I have been using ear plugs, although for some reason I cannot insert the plug in the right ear decently. In the left it works perfect and I can quickly and safely insert it deep enough to block noise. The right ear somehow it's not working, and often the plug falls out. (any thoughts on this?)

The reason for noise cancelling earphone is: (a) above problem for me (b) ear plugs are an overkill in many situations (c) my neuro thinks that the more I forget about the concussion, and wear and do things that look and feel normal the better my chances...

I think (c) is a good point. For some wearing "ear plugs" is normal for others, they are self-conscious and prefer something cooler... I think whatever works for you...

I have 2 pairs of Bose headphones...work great but lafge and bulky...

My first noise cancelling ear buds have been Sony's... very good but expencive....

Latest pair I got 2 months ago are the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC33iS...I am extreamly happy with these...Price range $50 to $80 dollars....Run off rechargable AAA batteries....I keep all my ear buds hooked to my phone..."I feel" by doing that not so freakish?

If you are having problems with foam earplugs not fitting properly I would suggest investing in custom fitted musicians earplugs - my ear canals are twisty and narrow and most foam earplugs were too big and uncomfortable.

Musicians earplugs are made to fit your ear perfectly, they have filters which can be changed depending on how much sound you want to let in and I wear them constantly now when I am out and about - cost was around 200 dollars.

Foam concert earplugs also worked for me when I could find them. /they seemed to be a softer foam and easier to insert and never felt uncomfortable.

I use silicone ear plugs for heavy duty situations. I have purchased musicians' earplugs. You get them fitted at an audiologist. They cut the noise down 20 DBS and allow you to hear conversations but much more comfortably. I have had Bose headphones (noise cancelling). I thought they were amazing. What is more amazing is the Bose in ear noise canceling headphones. (Earbuds). So much better than the overear Bose. I sleep with them. I can go into a noisy place. Way better on the plane. The sad thing is that these things all cost a lot of money. Especially when you lose them all the time like I do! But it's a terrible situation when you have hyperacusis along with auditory processing problems. Complete brain shutdown!

Another thing that the audiologist said was important is to slowly increase the demand on your auditory system. This is not easy. But I tried to put the radio on softly while doing something else. Concentrating on one thing with noise in the background for a limited period. My tolerance has improved. Still really bad as I do not go to concerts or sports events etc. I can sit at the dinner table with people now. Did that tonight but I'm now in my peaceful quiet room trying to still my brain.

Keep working at it. Improvement will happen for life!

I recently had custom ear plugs made. One set is silicone-based and used for showering (these cut down almost all noise). A second second is exactly what Mokey was saying. These can have a filter placed in them that will allow you to find your comfort zone. I can hear conversations with mine (-15 db across audiorange) but a lot of the background is reduced. I suspect this is exactly what you're looking for. Plus, with the custom fit your squirelly ear canal is a non-issue : )

DownBeats
4.3 out of 5 stars 494 Reviews
DownBeats Reusable High Fidelity Hearing Protection: Ear Plugs for Concerts, Music, and Musicians (Clear Ear Plugs, Blue Case). On Amazon

















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I just bought a pair via your recommendation and the good reviews it received everywhere I looked, and I must say, they work really well! They keep out the EARTH SHATTERING noise, while letting in just enough to be aware of my surroundings.

Their stereo/music quality is equally as good. Very pleased...

Thanks much!
t

BTW - The "Mack's" work very well, too, at deadening noise. If you're having sound bleeding through (a lot, anyway), be sure to squeeze them to the tiniest diameter you can before inserting in your ear. The smaller and further you get them in, the better they'll work. Give them time to expand, however. They will . . .

The Mack's will fit in deepest when you twist them to a narrow size. They will hold this longer so you can get them in. You can even untwist them a bit as they go in. I have lots of experience with the yellow foam cylinders. They allow local sounds so you can carry on a conversation.