The folks at Ryobi recently sent me their Tek4 Audio Plus Noise Suppression Headphones to evaluate and review. I recently tested them out in the shop.
The Ryobi Tek4 Audio Plus Noise Suppression Headphones feature speech amplification technology to enhance close-range conversations while suppressing loud noises, to help protect your ears from damage. The auxiliary input allows you to use the wireless headphones with iPods, MP3 players and similar sound devices.
When the unit is turned off, the comfortable hearing protectors to a very effective job of suppressing the sounds from loud power tools. When the unit is turned on, the built-in Speech Amplification Technology is designed to pick up voices and other desirable sounds to allow for normal
While background sounds are amplified higher than desired, the comfort and reduction of loud noises make these a viable option to traditional hearing protection.
First Impression:
The Ryobi Tek4 (RP4530) Audio Plus Nose Suppression Headphones are full-coverage over-the-ear hearing protection headphones that were comfortable to wear.
The headphones are powered by a 4-volt Lithium-Ion cell, with external charger included. The electronic noise suppression reduces the maximum noise level in the workshop to 82 decibels which is easier tolerated.
Features:
- Electronic Noise Suppression – Suppresses harmful impulse and background noise on the job site and at home
- Communication Enhancement Technology – Enhances close range conversations
- Auxiliary Input – iPod® and MP3 compatible (iPod is the property of Apple. This product is not designed, manufactured, sponsored, or endorsed, by Apple.)
- Auto Power Off – Saves battery for less downtime recharging
- Impact, Dust, Water Resistant – Withstands tough job site conditions
Using The TEK4 Headphones:
The TEK headphones were so super comfortable that I forgot I was wearing them. The noise of my table saw was reduced enough that I was able to hear my shop stereo, something that never happens with regular hearing protection headphones.
I even had my neighbor test them out at the Monster Truck show in Worcester, MA. He loved the headphones and told me they allowed him to carry a normal conversation as well as filter out the harsh exhaust sounds of the monster trucks.
There is a control knob on the right headphone that controls the volume for the microphones located at the front of the headphones. These built in microphones filter noise and allow and amplify only narrow-band noise / speech while continuing to suppress external noise.
I did not try out the IPOD / MP3 player audio port as I felt that having a cord dangling around moving machinery was dangerous. I do not recommend using any cord in these headphones.
Overall Impression:
Two words, “Super impressed.” Ryobi claims that one Tek4 battery outlasts up to 6,000 AA Alkaline batteries, for a savings of about $8000.
This review contains my opinion of a product. I take pride in providing my readers with an honest and objective information as well as a practical approach to using a product. I never accept payment in exchange for a positive review. Many of the tools and products are provided to for free by a manufacturer for review.
