I?d give these a 7. I tried using a balanced cable, no change. It strongly muffles passive sounds, like traffic, running water, or a fan. Its also nice because it helps me keep my devices all together in one place, and has some space for me to put in the charger. I dont recommend. Los 5. If you buy them enjoy them while they last! You would think that I went hiking in them. Charging was fast in the powerered BT hub; charged in about an hour to a reading of 100%. Id recommend wearing socks with as can get a bit sweaty and smelly when worn with bare feet!