While over 5% of the world's population suffers from hearing loss, it's estimated that half of all cases are preventable. Whether you want relief when listening to blaring music or wish you could tune out that crying baby on the airplane, finding the best earplugs are a must. And what if you could also selectively decide what noise to tune in and what to tune out?
That's where Dutch designed Knops comes in. Knops are adjustable ear plugs that let you control real world volume instantly with their innovative design. The volume button lets you select between four settings—clear sounds, city noise, live music, and isolation. And, the analog technology doesn't require electricity or batteries and Knops are actually stylish—an added plus considering you could wear these ear plugs all day.
So how do they work? “Instead of using electronics to try and synthesize something artificial, we’re taking the actual sound waves that come into your ear, and modifying them,” explains Arjen De Jong, founder of Knops, who also has a Ph.D. in acoustics. “So, what you hear is the actual, physical pressure wave, as it was already arriving into your ear.”
Want to work silently while sitting in a busy cafe? Try setting 4, isolation. Going to a loud concert, but don't want to leave with your ears ringing? Live music, setting 3, will do the trick. Or just want to take a stroll around the block without the overbearing buzz of the city? There's setting 2 for that.
After numerous testing trials and user feedback, Knops is taking their stunning ear plugs—which look like a cool piece of jewelry, to Kickstarter.
Knops adjustable ear plugs that allow you to control real world volume thanks to four different settings.
The stylish ear plugs, which are based on the shape of a gramophone, come in a variety of styles, with stainless steel and gold accent available.
Since they're adjustable, Knops could be worn all day, helping tune out noise on the city streets and creating a quiet work environment in any situation.
Knops: Website | Kickstarter
h/t: [Designboom]
