Hopefully you're like me, a genetic freak who's hearing has survived 98% intact after decades of guns and demo in the military, and props and jets without ANR.

But I know many older guys who's hearing is shot and have to wear earplugs under their ANR to try to save what they have left. If you're young I wouldn't take the chance... most old skool pilots are pretty deaf, they didn't have ANR available back in the day and it catches up with most. One guy has been a pilot and rock musician his whole life, but his hearing is so bad he has to wear special headphones to play or listen to music, because he can't afford any more damage.

Use earplugs on the walk-around too... that's probably the worst exposure you get.