Which acoustic phenomenon are high-quality ANC circuits most effective at counteracting?

Answer

Steady, low-frequency sounds like an engine hum.

The success of Active Noise Cancellation circuits is highly dependent on the predictability of the noise they are attempting to negate. ANC excels against steady, persistent, low-frequency sounds, such as the drone of an aircraft engine or the constant hum of an HVAC unit. This is because these sounds are consistent enough for the system's electronics to sample, process, and generate the precise, inverted anti-noise signal needed for destructive interference accurately and quickly. Sudden, sharp noises usually fall outside the ideal processing window for rapid electronic correction.

Which acoustic phenomenon are high-quality ANC circuits most effective at counteracting?
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