Oscar Hartzog
Contact Oscar Hartzog by Email View all posts by Oscar Hartzog March 18, 2026
Unplugs If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
The best earplugs for concerts reduce the volume of the music while still letting you clearly hear people around you (i.e., a chatty friend or a bartender). But it’s not always ideal. Sometimes, we still have to remove our earplugs, and it’s not always easy to re-insert them.
Here’s where Unplugs come in. The brand has introduced a pair of earplugs that let you toggle between “protection” and “connection” mode with the click of a button. This lets you effectively turn off noise reduction without taking the earplugs out, which is ideal for going from loud dancefloors to conversations (and back again). Plus, it’s all mechanical, so there’s no charging or batteries necessary. They’re the evolution of earplugs.
on sale Unplugs
pre-order Now
Deliveries expected early April
Unplugs are currently available for pre-order with deliveries expected to start in early April. They’re also discounted during the pre-order window right now, going for $59 instead of their full price of $90. Order yours at UnplugsHearing.com.
We were able to secure a pair of Unplugs before their release to test out in the real world. I took them to a pair of raves and was thoroughly impressed. For starters, the Unplugs are just a very solid pair of earplugs. They feature an NRR (noise reduction rating) of 20dB when in Protection Mode, which means the earplugs reduce the outside volume by 20 decibels. So, if a concert is 100dB, the earplugs lower that to 80dB. It’s just the right amount of noise reduction, letting you hear all aspects of the music without the ear damage.
But, of course, the Unplugs really shine when you want to hear someone talking, step outside, or order a drink. Click the outside of the earplugs (one or both of them), and the NRR is immediately reduced to 5dB. You’re still getting some protection, but you’ll be able to hear just about everything — no screaming necessary.
Concerts are where we use earplugs most, but Unplugs’ transition feature is also great for everyday use. Pop them in while at the office for distraction-free work, for example, and you’ll still be able to quickly “unplug” if someone comes up to chat.
