I have the follow on to the 850, the Airman 8. Most of the time I can have both ears covered and hear the other person just fine, but if they are a low talker I just uncover that ear. No biggie. I do get some hot spots on the top of my head, so I think another ANR headset may be better. I did have to send the first one I got back because of a wiring short, but they sent another one within a few days.