I have a Sennheiser HMK-25 also. 14 years and counting. being a bit older, i get 20-25 hours out of 2xAA batteries. I use rechargeables, so keep two spares in the kit.
As for the no intercom, what you mean is there is no hot mike switch you can select and it stays on. My favorite is to take a high tech rubber band and latch the PTT intercom switch on the comm panel around the attach bolts on the lower part of the panel. HOT MIC! Select FLIGHT INTERPHONE and talk all you want with noise canceling.
Two problems: Dont select before the tug driver disconnects or he (SHE) hears all you say. Second, when your compatriot gets up to go aft, and you pull out your O2 mask, turn the HOT MIC OFF first.
These techniques are 737 specific.
For anyone that does not use some type of noise canceling on the flight deck, you are playing with fire. take that from someone who is wearing hearing aides already. its no fun. take care of your hearing.