So when I first tried adaptive mode awhile ago I thought this is the dumbest thing ever. I can't tell the difference between this and transparency mode.
Well I have been finishing my basement so often times I use airpods while working. I have custom tips that basically are earplugs so I use that when using the saw and the added benefit I get to listen to music.
Well I decided to give adaptive mode a chance again and I finally get it. It blocks all the white noise, and will dynamically lower and "loud" noise.
So you hitting a hammer? Nothing happens, the noise is filtered through unaffected.
You running the table saw? You'll almost immediately hear it lower in overall noise while keeping all other sound available to you.
I decided to go for a run with them in adaptive mode. It's genius, all traffic white noise is lowered but you can still hear individual cars, foot steps, etc to stay alert.
I've completely removed transparency mode from my toggle and only use full NC and adaptive as you can hear people talking perfectly with it on.
I have no idea how it knows exactly what to pass through and what to block but it's easily become my new favourite setting.
TLDR: It's transparency mode that blocks white noise and extremely loud noises while allowing contextual sounds through.
There are a lot of loud trucks driving along the first quarter of my dog walk route. I immediately realized the value of adaptive sound. I can still hear the trucks and maintain spacial awareness. However the truck noise is reduced and I do not need to turn the volume up to unsafe levels to continue to hear what I’m listening to.