[midgetjones]

In my experience, noise-cancelling headphones have made a big difference. The music doesn't need to compete anymore and you can lower the volume and enjoy the dynamic range.

I also wonder if the resurgence of vinyl, and rise of home producers on bandcamp/soundcloud/etc have helped contribute.

[mstade]

Noise cancelling headphones and ear plugs have been a god send. I just recently got the new AirPods and the noise cancelling in those is phenomenal, I've only experienced better in bulky over ear headphones. If you're in the market for noise cancelling ear plugs, I can definitely recommend them. The mic doesn't seem very good though, getting a lot of complaints about low volume. Oh well, can't have it all!