The Bottom Line
The ZEM by SensGard Hearing Protection device utilizes patented sound attenuating technology developed at Syracuse University to allow voice recognition while filtering out damaging sounds. The manufacturers claim that the ZEM actually draws sound away from the ears into the device where the sound is effectively canceled without electronics or batteries.
This isn't to say that you'll be able to carry on normal uninterrupted conversations while using the device. However, the unit does a very good job of diminishing the noise of power woodworking tools, and is more comfortable than huge, over-the-ear style muffs.
This isn't to say that you'll be able to carry on normal uninterrupted conversations while using the device. However, the unit does a very good job of diminishing the noise of power woodworking tools, and is more comfortable than huge, over-the-ear style muffs.
Pros
- Lightweight yet effective at reducing noise from power woodworking tools
- Folds to conveniently fit in a shirt pocket
Cons
- A bit uncomfortable at first, but we eventually became quite accustomed to the fit
Description
- Weighing less than two ounces, the ZEM is very lightweight and easy to use.
- In our opinion, the ZEM dampens the sound of power woodworking tools more effectively than foam ear plugs.
- Includes four extra ear pads and a carrying case.
Guide Review - Review of the Zem by SensGard Hearing Protection
The ZEM by SensGard Hearing Protection device is rated as 26 decibel reduction (on a scale of 0 to 30, with higher numbers denoting greater effectiveness). We found that the unit does a very good job of reducing the noise of power woodworking tools such as routers and saws.
However, the manufacturers claim that the unit allows conversation while the user is protected from excessive noise. This led us to believe that we'd be able to carry on a normal conversation and cut out any loud sounds simultaneously.
While we felt that the sound levels of voices weren't diminished as much as the sound levels of our power tools, we certainly weren't able to carry on a normal conversation while wearing the device. That being said, when we were able to read the lips of the person speaking to compliment the sounds of their voices, we were able to easily converse with little additional effort.
However, the manufacturers claim that the unit allows conversation while the user is protected from excessive noise. This led us to believe that we'd be able to carry on a normal conversation and cut out any loud sounds simultaneously.
While we felt that the sound levels of voices weren't diminished as much as the sound levels of our power tools, we certainly weren't able to carry on a normal conversation while wearing the device. That being said, when we were able to read the lips of the person speaking to compliment the sounds of their voices, we were able to easily converse with little additional effort.
Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
