[e40]

Before you played music too loud, actually. Playing music on a low volume will not give you tinnitus.

[partyboat1586]

Playing music at a low volume also won't block out background noise.

[catalogia]

YMMV. For me, background noise in general isn't the issue. Rather the issue is specifically people talking, because my mind begins following their conversation. If I can render their voice unintelligible then it won't distract me. Low volume music often works for this.

[cthaeh]

As someone with tinnitus, it is so much worse than background noise.

Now I love background noise because it's the only way I can escape tennitus (I hate headphones)

[ivank]

blocking/masking noise at safe volume levels is very much possible with in-ear monitors and Comply Isolation tips

[cellularmitosis]

Better isolation will allow you to lower the volume. Etymotic ER4XR are my current go-to.

[e40]

Then get some noise canceling headphones, over the ear, and that will take care of the background noise.

[baroffoos]

NC headphones will though.

[mancerayder]

Not so much. They blow low frequencies, but not conversation or even music on the subway.

[coldtea]

Unless you work at a construction site, it will to a very good extent.

Do you really need to drown office noise completely through maxed out music?