[HCarleton]

I work in a machine shop and have to wear ear plugs constantly to prevent damage to my eardrums. I would like to listen to music but regular earbuds let way too much noise in.

Are there any noise isolation ear buds for under $100 that are effective enough to protect my ears from this level of noise? (Imagine sitting in your living room with a blender running non stop)

Sound quality isn't as important as noise isolation...

 

[Uncle Erik]

Yes, try IEMs. They go into your ears like earplugs and many offer a lot of isolation.

If you really want great isolation, consider custom IEMs. An audiologist makes impressions of your ears and then the manufacturer uses those to make IEMs that are custom fit to your ears.

Unfortunately, customs cost more than $100, but they're terrific for keeping noise out.

 

[LJH01]

Look at the Etymotics HF5's.  They isolate really really well and they can be had for $99.00 in the states.  When I wear my HF5's I can barely hear my lawn mower running, according to their web site they cut out 35-42db's.
C
Cheers,
Jim

 

[kmhaynes]

+1 on the HF5.  Excellent and below $100 at Amazon.com now.
 
http://www.amazon.com/Etymotic-Research-Portable-Earphones-Black/dp/B000XPG2QI
 

 

[dziendobry]

For super isolation you could do the HF5's as well as over the ear hearing protection.

 

[tinyman392]

I'm going to have to say HF series as well.  They isolate really well...