I'm going to recommend a 2nd generation ANR as well. I'm 27 and hear a constant ringing. To much shooting, grinding, cutting, cat skinning, and any other loud farming job without hearing protection when I was younger. I have 2 zulu2s and tgey are great. Havent tried the new one, but would like to.
As far as the passenger headset is concerned, I bought a zulu2 for the backseat, primarily because my wife sits back there and its a lot more comfortable for her. Quieter and less clamping force. For me ANR is a tough cost to swallow, but IMHO one that has to be paid.

The other economics lesson. Guys are suckers for the latest model. Wait till they take the bait, then buy their Zulu2's used.