I ride in Metro NY traffic and have never felt the need for a loud horn. I sometimes have to yell out, and when I do, it works, but those occasions are the exception and not the rule. Rather than needing to make noise, I stay safe by observing and keying into what other drivers are doing.

Thing like pre-empting a pass and/or positioning myself behind (or in front) rather than abeam of cars approaching an intersection prevents right hooks. Comparable road smart actions prevent most of the other stuff people talk about. That doesn't mean I don't sometimes get treated rudely, but such is life in NYC.

Among the arguments for the Airzound above was honking at cars sitting in the bike lane. I don't get that at all. The car is sitting there, and there's no clear and present danger that calls for a warning. Instead you could go around, but apparently some people would rather sit and complain than simply move on with their lives.

BTW- in NYC honking a horn, other than when there's a clear need for a warning or alert, is an "unnecessary noise" violation with a potential stiff fine.

So, this isn't to say that anyone shouldn't buy one if they wish, just that I don't see the need.