The Optima Series Phones are the newest release from B&B Distributors, LLC. You asked and we listened ! The Foam padded muff is one of the most vital key element on a set of headphones. The standard vinyl muff has a average life expectancy of (3) three years. During that (3) three years, every time you use them, the vinyl gets a little harder. Oils and acid from your skin, bug spray, ozone and hot conditions harden the vinyl causing for a less comfortable fit, not to mention a serious increase in ambient noise. Now pick up your old set of phones and feel the vinyl muff seals, are they as soft as when they were new ? Do they show evidence of hardening denting or vinyl memory ? Possibly you will notice small cracks or tears ? Brand new vinyl muffs in perfect condition and under Controlled lab experiments will yield a generous 24 decibels (max) of ambient noise blocking ability. But remember the key word (NEW), what does a hardened, cracked, dented pair block ? Now we talk about leather, in those same lab conditions, leather muffs will block a whopping 26 decibels ambient noise and its claim to fame is that it will continue to block that noise day in day out, year end year out. Not convinced ? Think about the cars you have seen. Have you ever seen vinyl seats in a deluxe model Why not try out a pair of Optima B's today, you might just be surprised to hear just what you've been missing!