We spend a lot of time here talking about headphones and earbuds, their noise-canceling prowess, and how they help us stay focused while still allowing us to hear the sounds we need. But sometimes, a simpler solution is all we need: earplugs. And when it comes to earplugs, Loop is making waves.
You’ve likely seen Loop’s stylish earplugs popping up on Instagram. Now, they’ve unveiled the Loop Switch 2, and these aren’t your typical, run-of-the-mill earplugs. These earbuds are designed to look and feel like something you’d use to listen to music, not just protect your hearing. This is a key distinction because Loop’s Switch 2 are unpowered earplugs, relying on passive noise reduction instead of active noise cancellation like many wireless earbuds.
The “Switch” in their name refers to the three levels of noise reduction, or “modes” as Loop calls them. These new models boast improved noise blocking, a sleeker profile, and come in a range of four colors.
“Our goal is to make hearing protection seamless and stylish, integrating it into everyday life through innovative technology,” explains Loop co-founder Dimitri O. “The original Loop Switch transformed how people control sound, but Loop Switch 2 sets a new standard with major improvements in comfort, design and performance.”
Think of these three noise reduction modes as an unplugged, unpowered version of the transparency modes found in your favorite Bluetooth earbuds. They offer a more analog approach to controlling your sound environment.
Here’s a breakdown of each mode and their corresponding noise reduction levels:
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Engage Mode (20dB SNR):
This is the lowest noise reduction setting, perfect for situations like cafes and restaurants where you want to hear conversation but soften the overall din. Sound travels through an acoustic channel and mesh filter, theoretically reducing a 100dB concert to 80dB.*
Experience Mode (23dB SNR):
This mode filters out noise while preserving a rich sound, making it ideal for events or immersive listening experiences.*
Quiet Mode (26dB SNR):
This mode offers the highest level of noise reduction, creating a calm bubble for focus in shared workspaces or while traveling.The mechanical dial that switches between these modes has been redesigned for more intuitive and tactile transitions.
“Loop Switch 2 gives people unprecedented control over their sound environment,” says Loop co-founder Maarten Bodewes. “We’ve pushed the limits of what a single earplug can achieve, combining precision and convenience so users can focus on what matters most, without distraction.”
With their stylish design and effective noise reduction capabilities, Loop Switch 2 earplugs offer a compelling alternative to traditional earplugs and are a must-have for anyone looking to take control of their sound environment and protect their hearing.