I don't equalize by pinching my nose anymore, it's so much easier by just flexing the muscles in the back of my throat. Then I can keep my hands free, and if I want I can keep my eustachian tubes open for a while so I can descend 10 feet or so without feeling anything. It's so much easier on the ears than valsalva I think. I never get loud audible "pops" or squeaks while equalizing.