Did I expect too much from noise cancelling headphones?

[Domo]

Or are these Sony WH-1000XM2s dodgy?
Just bought a set and surprised to hear background music playing on an airplane while waiting to taxi and take off. Thought it would cancel that out completely? Checked and ambient noise is OFF. They’re doing a great job at blocking out most cabin noise such as aircon although I can hear faint conversations but the music is surprisingly intrusive.

Thought they’d cancel out everything?

Sound is awesome though when playing music. Was really surprised at how good they are after owning some Audio Technicas which despite rave reviews were rather bland (they were on-ear to be fair). Anyway, anyone else on here with experience of the Sony XM2s?

 

[Domo]

No music playing through the headphones at the time. But could clearly make out The Flower Duet over the BA tannoy.
Been meddling. Interestingly, I can reduce the ambient noise further via the Headphone Connect iPhone app. Will try on the plane going home.

 

[Domo]

You're right. I mentioned a few posts up there's an app which does allow you to change how much ambient noise they let in. And when reduced to the minimum it really is quite amazing. Will test those setting when flying back. I've also messed about with some proximity settings when it carries out a test of your environment incl. pressure. Lots of cool stuff.