I always have my iPod and Sennheiser earbuds handy. No need to turn it to a damaging level to drown out the blowhard waves.

But still, here's my two cents PSA: Please, please, please, move to the vestibule or at least the cafe if you need to talk loudly! (Yes, I realize some crew disapprove of standing in the vestibules, even on Acela.)