Review: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones – The New Standard for Quiet?

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Bose has long been a dominant force in the noise-canceling headphone market, and their latest offering, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, aims to solidify that position. Building upon the legacy of the renowned QuietComfort series, the Ultra model promises enhanced audio quality, cutting-edge noise cancellation, and a premium listening experience. After spending considerable time with these headphones, here’s our take on whether they live up to the hype.

Specs and Features:

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra packs a serious punch in terms of technology. Here’s a rundown of the key specifications and features:

• Type: Over-ear, wireless headphones
• Noise Cancellation: Industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) with multiple modes, including Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, and Immersion Mode.
• Spatial Audio: Bose Immersive Audio for a more realistic and three-dimensional soundstage.
• Audio Codecs: aptX Adaptive support for high-quality Bluetooth audio (though it requires a compatible device). Also supports AAC and SBC.
• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours on a single charge (with ANC enabled), and up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio. A quick 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of playtime.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint technology, allowing simultaneous connection to two devices. USB-C port for charging and (unfortunately) not for audio.
• Controls: Intuitive touch controls on the right earcup for volume, playback, and calls. Customizable shortcuts are available through the Bose Music app.
• Wear Detection: Automatic pause and play when the headphones are removed or put back on.
• Microphones: Integrated microphone system for clear calls, even in noisy environments.
• Comfort: Lightweight design with plush earcups and an adjustable headband for extended listening sessions.
• Durability: Sturdy build quality, though lacking official IP rating for water or dust resistance.
• Bose Music App: Provides EQ customization, noise cancellation mode selection, Immersive Audio adjustments, and software updates.

Pricing:

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are positioned at the premium end of the market, with a recommended retail price of $449 USD. This places them in direct competition with other flagship noise-canceling headphones. Bose also offers optional protection plans for added peace of mind.

Real-World Usage Examples:

To truly understand how these headphones perform, we put them through various real-world scenarios:

• Commuting: The ANC on the QuietComfort Ultra is exceptional. During a busy train commute, the low rumble of the train and the chatter of fellow passengers were almost completely eliminated in Quiet Mode. Aware Mode was useful for staying aware of announcements without removing the headphones, while still reducing distracting background noise.
• Office Environment: In a bustling office, the headphones effectively muffled keyboard clicks, phone conversations, and general office hubbub, allowing for focused work. The wear detection was a convenient feature, automatically pausing music when needing to have a quick conversation.
• Travel: The long battery life is a significant advantage for long flights. The comfortable earcups ensured no discomfort even after several hours of continuous wear. The immersive audio added a new dimension to movies and music, creating a more engaging experience.
• Home Listening: Whether enjoying music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the sound quality was consistently impressive across different genres. The balanced audio profile delivered crisp highs, rich mids, and satisfying bass without being overpowering.
• Calls: Phone calls were clear on both ends, even in moderately noisy environments. The microphone system did a good job of isolating the user’s voice from background sounds.

Conclusion:

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones represent a significant step forward in the QuietComfort lineage. The combination of class-leading noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, and comfortable design makes them a top contender in the premium headphone market. The addition of Bose Immersive Audio provides a unique and enjoyable listening experience.

While the price point may be a barrier for some, the performance and features on offer justify the investment for those seeking a truly immersive and distraction-free audio experience. The lack of USB-C audio and a slightly clunky Bluetooth multipoint experience are minor drawbacks in an otherwise exceptional package. If you’re looking for a premium pair of noise-canceling headphones that excel in both performance and comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra should be at the top of your list.