The future of audio technology has arrived, and it’s in the form of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. Released in October 2023, these headphones are Bose’s most premium offering and the successors to the acclaimed Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. They come equipped with the groundbreaking Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite, setting a new standard for audio streaming.
Similar to Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, these headphones feature the latest Qualcomm® aptX Adaptive codec, which enables lossless and low-latency audio streaming, ensuring you experience audio in its purest form. With this exceptional technology, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are not just about listening but about immersing yourself in the richness of sound.
Additionally, these headphones retain the unmatched noise cancellation capabilities that Bose is known for, making them an ideal choice for those who seek a truly immersive auditory experience. The CustomTune technology personalizes sound to your unique ears, and the voice pickup capabilities ensure crystal-clear calls even in bustling surroundings.
This table provides a concise overview of the key features and specs of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones for easy reference.
| Feature | Description |
| Release Date | October 2023, Replacing Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. |
| Design | Elevated, modern design with adjustable headband and removable protein leather ear cushions. Available in black and smoke white. Made of plastic, aluminum, and leather (Protein). Foldable design for portability. |
| Sound | Spatialized audio with Bose Immersive Audio and CustomTune technology for personalized sound. Features Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite with Qualcomm aptX Adaptive codec for lossless and low-latency audio streaming. |
| Noise Cancellation | World-class active noise cancellation with 3 modes: Quiet, Aware, and Immersion. Combines active and passive noise reduction technologies. |
| Microphones | Adaptive mic system for crystal clear calls. |
| App & Connectivity | Bose Music app for customization. Bluetooth 5.3 with a range of up to 30 feet. Supports SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm’s aptX adaptive audio codecs. |
| Voice Assistant Integration | Works with mobile device’s built-in voice assistant. |
| Battery | Up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge (up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio). Fast charging with up to 3 hours of playtime from a 15-minute charge. |
| Additional Features | CustomTune technology, ActiveSense technology in Aware mode, Wind Block. |
| Controls | Bluetooth/power button, multi-function button, capacitive volume strip. On-head/off-head detection for control. |
| Price | Approx. $429 |
| Accessories | Carry case, 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm audio cable, USB-C (A to C) cable (20″). |
| Pros | Premium sound quality, top-tier noise cancellation, comfortable design, intuitive touch controls, wired listening option. |
| Cons | Higher price point compared to other Bose headphones, lacks Bluetooth multipoint connection, and wireless charging. |
Our goal with this review is to take you on a deep dive into the world of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. We’ll explore the design, delve into the exceptional sound quality, dissect the innovative noise cancellation, and uncover the plethora of features that make these headphones a potential game-changer in the audio industry. So, join us on an auditory journey to experience the essence of these cutting-edge headphones.
Table of Contents
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: Deep Look
Design
The design of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is a true embodiment of elegance and sophistication. These headphones not only promise an exceptional auditory experience but also make a striking visual statement.
Elevated, Modern, and Sleek Materials: Bose has meticulously crafted these headphones using elevated, modern, and sleek materials that showcase a harmonious blend of form and function. This design philosophy ensures that the headphones not only sound outstanding but also look and feel premium.
Adjustable Headband and Removable Protein Leather Ear Cushions: The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are built for comfort during extended listening sessions. The adjustable headband allows for a personalized fit, ensuring that they sit snugly on your head. The removable protein leather ear cushions not only add to the luxurious feel but also contribute to the overall comfort of these headphones.
Colors, Weight, and Portability: These headphones are available in two classic colors, namely, black and smoke white. Whether you prefer a timeless black or a sleek smoke-white finish, the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones cater to your aesthetic preferences. Weighing in at approximately 250g, they strike the right balance between being lightweight for on-the-go use and substantial enough for a secure fit.
Materials Used: The choice of materials further underlines the commitment to quality. These headphones incorporate a combination of plastic, aluminum, and leather (Protein) in their construction. The use of plastic and aluminum not only ensures durability but also contributes to their lightweight profile. The presence of protein leather adds a touch of luxury to the ear cushions, enhancing both comfort and style.
The attention to detail in the design of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is evident, making them not just a listening device but a fashion statement. Whether you’re wearing them on a commute or for an extended listening session at home, these headphones not only sound great but also elevate your overall experience with their elegant and comfortable design.
Sound
The sound quality of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is not only exceptional but also backed by cutting-edge technology. With the incorporation of the Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite, these headphones reach a new pinnacle in audio excellence.
Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite: These headphones feature the innovative Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite, which enables support for the latest Qualcomm® aptX Adaptive codec for audio streaming. This codec not only promises exceptional sound quality but also brings lossless and low-latency audio streaming capabilities to the forefront. With this technology, you can enjoy your music in its purest form, free from distortions and delays.
Breakthrough Spatialized Audio: The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones introduce a breakthrough in spatialized audio, redefining how you perceive sound. When you put on these headphones, you’ll experience an audio landscape that transcends traditional stereo sound. Instead of confining the audio to the confines of your head, the Bose Immersive Audio takes your music and places it in front of you. This creates a lifelike, three-dimensional soundscape that truly immerses you in your music, movies, and games.
Bose Immersive Audio: The heart of this spatial audio revolution is the Bose Immersive Audio technology. It’s responsible for the magic that makes sound come alive in front of you. No matter the content or source, these headphones make every note, every word, and every sound feel like it’s happening right in front of you. It’s a game-changing feature for those who crave an immersive listening experience.
CustomTune Technology: Tailoring the listening experience to your preferences is a vital aspect of these headphones. The CustomTune technology is an intelligent system that analyzes the unique shape of your ears and fine-tunes the sound performance accordingly. It adapts to any distortion, ensuring that the sound is precisely to your liking. This personalization guarantees that you always receive the best sound quality that suits your individual hearing profile.
The sound quality provided by the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is simply unmatched. Whether you’re an audiophile searching for the purest sound or a casual listener wanting a rich and immersive experience, these headphones deliver in spades. The combination of breakthrough spatialized audio, Bose Immersive Audio, CustomTune technology, and Snapdragon Sound™ promises an audio experience that stands at the pinnacle of the industry.
Noise Cancellation
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are renowned for their world-class noise cancellation, setting a new benchmark for immersive and uninterrupted listening.
World-Class Active Noise Cancellation: These headphones employ a world-class active noise cancellation system that is nothing short of extraordinary. It allows you to escape the distractions of the outside world and focus on your music, podcasts or calls with unparalleled clarity. Whether you’re on a noisy subway or in a bustling office, the active noise cancellation ensures that you can enjoy your audio content in peace.
Three Noise Cancellation Modes: The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer a trio of noise cancellation modes to cater to different scenarios. The Quiet mode provides 100% noise cancellation, making it ideal for complete isolation in noisy environments. In contrast, the Aware mode lets in some ambient sound, enhancing your environmental awareness while maintaining noise reduction. The most immersive experience comes with the Immersion mode, which combines full noise cancellation with Bose’s signature Immersive Audio, providing an unparalleled auditory experience.
Combination of Active and Passive Noise Reduction: What makes noise cancellation on these headphones exceptional is the synergy between active and passive noise reduction technologies. While active noise cancellation counters external sounds electronically, the headphones also feature excellent passive noise reduction. This is achieved through a combination of the earcup fit, design, and the clamping force of the headband, ensuring that even without active noise cancellation, outside sounds are significantly reduced.
Sophisticated Electronics Approach and Microphone Placement: The key to the effectiveness of noise cancellation lies in the sophisticated electronics approach employed. These headphones feature microphones both inside and outside the earcups. The electronics system continuously senses the sound in your environment and, in real time, measures, compares, and reacts to produce an opposing cancellation signal. This intelligent system ensures that you experience noise-free audio, regardless of your surroundings. The strategic placement of these microphones ensures that the system captures and neutralizes noise from all directions, further enhancing the noise cancellation performance.
Microphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones aren’t just designed for an exceptional listening experience but also ensure that your communication is equally extraordinary, thanks to a revolutionary adaptive mic system.
Revolutionary Adaptive Mic System: These headphones incorporate a revolutionary adaptive microphone system that redefines the quality of calls and communication. Whether you’re in a quiet room or a noisy outdoor environment, this microphone system adapts to ensure that your voice comes through crystal clear to the person on the other end of the call. No more struggling to be heard or battling background noise during important conversations.
Enhancing the Overall Communication Experience: The presence of this adaptive microphone system enhances every aspect of the communication experience. It ensures that your voice remains the focus of your calls, making it easier for you to converse with colleagues, friends, and family. The microphones also work in tandem with active noise cancellation, which means not only can you hear others clearly, but they can hear you without interference from the surrounding environment. This technology makes these headphones ideal for work-related calls, video conferences, or catching up with loved ones, no matter where you are.
App and Connectivity
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones combine advanced connectivity options and an intuitive app to enhance your overall listening experience.
Bose Music App: To customize and fine-tune your listening experience, the Bose Music app is at your disposal. This app provides an array of features, including an Adjustable EQ, custom modes, and easy access to settings right from your headphones. Whether you prefer a specific audio profile or need to tweak settings to match your preferences, the Bose Music app is your gateway to a personalized auditory journey.
Bluetooth 5.3 Technology: These headphones are equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 technology, ensuring a robust and reliable wireless connection to your devices. With a range of up to 30 feet (9 meters), you can move around freely without worrying about signal drop-offs or interruptions. This extended range provides the flexibility to enjoy your audio content without being tethered to your source device.
Supported Audio Codecs: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones support a range of audio codecs, ensuring compatibility with various devices and sources. These codecs include the commonly used SBC and AAC, offering high-quality audio transmission. Additionally, these headphones feature Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec, which not only ensures high-quality audio but also adapts to deliver lossless and low-latency audio streaming, thanks to the Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite.
Absence of Bluetooth Multipoint Connection: It’s worth noting that, at the time of release, these headphones do not support Bluetooth multipoint connection. This means that you can connect to one device at a time. While this may not be a concern for most users, it’s essential to be aware of this limitation if you frequently switch between multiple devices.
Voice Assistant Integration
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are designed to seamlessly work with the built-in voice assistants on your mobile devices, adding a new level of convenience to your daily interactions.
Integration with Built-In Voice Assistants: These headphones are optimized to work harmoniously with the voice assistants available on your mobile devices, such as Siri, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa. By activating your device’s voice assistant through the headphones, you can perform a wide range of tasks with simple voice commands. Whether you need to make a call, send a message, set reminders, check the weather, or access information, it’s all at your fingertips—well, actually, at the tip of your tongue.
Convenience of Voice Assistant Integration: The convenience of voice assistant integration cannot be overstated. It eliminates the need to fumble with your device, allowing you to keep your hands free and maintain focus on your tasks or environment. Whether you’re on a walk, commuting, or simply multitasking at home, the voice assistant integration in these headphones streamlines your access to information and control, making daily life more efficient and enjoyable.
Battery
The battery performance of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is tailored to keep you immersed in your audio content for extended periods while ensuring flexibility and convenience.
Maximum Battery Life: These headphones offer an impressive battery life, providing you with up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge. Whether you’re on a long flight, a daily commute, or a marathon listening session, these headphones won’t leave you wanting for power. It’s worth noting that if you use the Immersive Audio mode, you can still expect up to 18 hours of battery life, ensuring a lasting listening experience.
Fast-Charging Feature: For those moments when you need a quick top-up, the fast-charging feature comes to the rescue. With just a 15-minute charge, you can gain up to 3 hours of additional playtime. This feature ensures that you’re never left without your music or podcasts, even when you’re in a hurry.
Wired Listening Option: In the rare event that your battery is completely depleted, these headphones include an audio cable. You can use this cable to connect the headphones to your device for wired listening. This not only extends your listening time but also provides a reliable alternative for situations where wireless connectivity may not be available or desired.
Battery Charging Method: Charging the battery of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is straightforward and modern. They use a USB-C cable for charging, which is a widely supported and versatile charging method. This means that you can conveniently charge your headphones using the same cable that’s often used for many other devices, making it a practical and universal choice.
Additional Features
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones come equipped with a range of unique features that go beyond standard audio quality and noise cancellation, significantly enhancing the overall user experience.
- CustomTune Technology: One of the standout features of these headphones is the innovative CustomTune technology. This technology takes sound personalization to the next level. By analyzing the unique shape of your ears, it tailors the sound performance to your liking. This personalization ensures that the audio you hear is precisely tuned to your hearing profile, eliminating distortion and delivering the best possible sound quality. The result is an audio experience that’s not just immersive but uniquely tailored to your preferences.
- ActiveSense Technology in Aware Mode: In environments where you want to maintain awareness of your surroundings, the ActiveSense technology in Aware mode comes into play. This feature adds a layer of intelligence to noise cancellation. It ensures that important sounds, such as announcements or conversations, are not drowned out. It allows you to enjoy your music or content without completely isolating yourself from the world. This technology enhances safety and situational awareness, making it ideal for situations where you need to stay alert.
- Wind Block: Wind can be a nuisance during outdoor listening sessions, causing noise disturbances. The Wind Block feature is designed to address this issue. It mutes the microphones on the outside of the earcups that are used for noise cancellation, preventing gusts of wind from causing unwanted audio interruptions. This feature ensures that your listening experience remains smooth and enjoyable, regardless of windy conditions.
How to Control Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones provide a user-friendly and intuitive control system, ensuring that you have easy access to essential functions right from the right earcup.
Controls on the Right Earcup:
- Bluetooth/Power Button: Located at the bottom of the right earcup, the Bluetooth/Power button serves as a versatile control hub. It allows you to power the headphones on/off, put them in pairing mode for initial setup, and cycle through paired devices. This button is central to managing your wireless connections and ensuring that you can switch between devices seamlessly.
- Multi-Function Button: Positioned at the back of the right earcup, the multi-function button serves various roles. It supports audio playback functions, such as play, pause, and skipping tracks. Additionally, it handles telephony tasks, like answering or declining calls. It also facilitates mode switching, enabling you to switch between the different noise cancellation modes, including Quiet, Aware, and Immersion. This button’s multifunctionality ensures that you can control your audio content and manage calls with ease.
- Capacitive Volume Strip: Along the edge of the right earcup, you’ll find a capacitive volume strip. This strip is a touch-sensitive control that allows you to adjust the volume by swiping along it. Pressing and holding on the strip can activate a user-configurable shortcut, making it even more versatile in its functionality.
On-Head/Off-Head Detection:
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones come with an intelligent feature known as on-head/off-head detection. This technology can detect when you put the headphones on or take them off. When you put the headphones on, it can automatically wake them up, ensuring they’re ready for use. Conversely, when you take them off, the headphones can go into sleep or auto-off mode to conserve battery. Additionally, you can customize the auto-off feature according to your preferences using the Bose Music app.
Price & Accessories
Approximate Price: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are priced at approximately $429. This price reflects the premium features, exceptional sound quality, and advanced technology these headphones offer.
Comparison to Competing Headphones:
- Sony WH-1000XM5: In the same price range, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are strong competitors. They are known for their superb noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, and a feature-rich app for customization. The choice between the two may come down to personal preferences and specific features.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are another worthy alternative. They offer premium sound quality, stylish design, and excellent build quality. They may appeal to audiophiles seeking a balanced sound profile and a touch of elegance in their headphones.
Included Accessories: When you purchase the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, you’ll find a set of accessories that enhance the user experience. These typically include:
- A carry case: This protective case ensures that your headphones are safe and secure when not in use, making them travel-friendly.
- A 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm audio cable: This cable allows you to connect your headphones to devices that have a different audio jack size, ensuring versatility in connectivity.
- A USB-C (A to C) cable (20″): This USB-C cable is essential for charging the headphones. It is a common and versatile cable used for various devices.
These accessories not only add convenience but also protect your investment, ensuring that your headphones remain in top condition and ready for use wherever you go.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Pros and Cons
Pros:
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are packed with numerous advantages that make them a standout choice for discerning users:
- Premium Sound Quality: These headphones deliver an audio experience that stands at the pinnacle of the industry. The combination of spatialized audio, Bose Immersive Audio, and CustomTune technology ensures that you enjoy a sound quality that’s truly exceptional.
- Excellent Noise Cancellation: Bose is renowned for its noise cancellation technology, and these headphones take it to new heights. With three noise cancellation modes, you can tailor your experience to your surroundings, whether you need total isolation or situational awareness.
- Comfortable Design: The design of these headphones is not only aesthetically appealing but also exceptionally comfortable. The use of elevated materials and features like adjustable headbands and removable protein leather ear cushions ensures that you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort.
- Intuitive Touch Controls: Controlling your audio and calls is a breeze with the intuitive touch controls. The capacitive volume strip and multi-function button offer a user-friendly interface, making it easy to manage your listening experience.
- Wired Listening Option: In situations where the battery runs low, you have the option for wired listening, extending your listening time and ensuring you’re never without your audio content.
Cons:
While the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer numerous benefits, they also come with a few drawbacks:
- Relatively Steep Price: These headphones are priced at approximately $429, which may be considered relatively steep compared to other Bose headphone models. However, this premium price reflects the advanced technology and features they offer.
- Absence of Bluetooth Multipoint Connection: At the time of release, these headphones do not support Bluetooth multipoint connection, meaning you can only connect to one device at a time. This might be a limitation for users who frequently switch between multiple devices.
- Lack of Wireless Charging: These headphones do not offer wireless charging, which may be a feature some users look for in premium headphones. While they support fast charging, wireless charging isn’t included in the feature set.
Final Thoughts: Recommendation and Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones represent a remarkable leap forward in the world of premium headphones. Bose has expertly crafted a product that excels in every aspect of the listening experience.
Verdict: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a premium audio solution for those who demand the best in sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort. These headphones redefine the listening experience, providing immersive audio, customization, and intuitive controls. While they come at a premium price, they deliver on their promises. If you’re a discerning audiophile or someone who values top-tier technology, these headphones are an excellent investment.
To sum it all up, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer a listening experience that’s truly exceptional, delivering sound quality that’s second to none and noise cancellation that sets a new standard. They may come at a premium price, but they’re a top choice for those who seek uncompromising quality in their audio experience.
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