In my youth (I sound ancient, don't I?), I always appreciated a good dose of background noise.  Whether a sitcom on TV or a Barry Manilow marathon on the radio (yes, I really do like Barry), my first reach was always to add some noise.  While I was cooking, something in the background always kept me company -- whether a movie or a playlist.

But that is all past tense now.  Instead of the relaxing distraction of my background noise, those additions to my day have become, well, actual noise.  I can now happily be found in a quiet car or quiet house -- no radio,  no ipod, no television.  I find myself turning the radio off when I get into the car. 

I started an informal survey and several friends of my generation are noticing the same phenomenon.  So, continuing my study, where do you come out on background noise?  And, if it is part of your world, what is your favorite type?