Surface Headphones noise cancellation causes static noise in left ear

Question

Just when my Surface Headphones hit their two year warranty, almost to the day, the left earphone started playing super loud static noise whenever noise cancelation is enabled. I've tried reseating the headphone cup, resetting the device, making sure it had latest firmware, etc.

It looks like repair or replacement is now $179 so this expensive hardware basically junked itself at the warranty.

I've seen a lot of posts on this in the community. Has anyone ever fixed this themselves? Any ideas? 

Also would appreciate recommendations on competitive hardware. I'm not enthusiastic about buying another Microsoft device after this terrible support experience.

Answer 1

Hello Jason Strayer,

Thanks for posting your concern here. We apologize for this inconvenience this has caused you.

This can happen in environments where loud noises occur. There are some fast-transient noises that can’t be filtered out by active noise cancellation. In the meantime, disconnect and reconnect your headphones from the host device. Also, please Update Surface Headphones for improvements and fixes.

Hope this helps.

Regards,

StevenK

Answer 2

This problem is continuous, only happens on one ear, reproduces on multiple host devices, in multiple environments, and the Surface Audio app reports that it is up to date on updates. It's as if something is blocking or has impacted the noise cancellation mic on the left ear, but I can't locate where that might be without breaking the plastic. 

Still hoping there is an easy solution.