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I tested Bose's new midrange headphones - now the pricey Ultras feel redundant
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Bose's midrange headphones have consistently been among the best on the market. They have better noise cancellation, comfort, and a sleeker design than competing models from the same caliber: JBL, Sennheiser, and Sony. Though Bose's midrange headphones carry an upper-midrange $359 price tag, they're better suited to mature listeners seeking a reliable, simple pair.
Also: I flew 2,700 miles with Apple, Sony, and Sennheiser headphones - this pair had the best audio
The QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) are the most transformed pair of headphones Bose has released since the QuietComfort Ultra succeeded the Bose NC700 in 2023. They debut with new audio technologies, an upgraded design, improved noise-canceling abilities, and upgraded connectivity. Several of these upgrades are borrowed from the $449 QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen).
So, with improvements this notable, do you need to spend $90 more on the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen)? I wore the new QC Headphones 2 for five days; here's my take.
The second-generation midrange QuietComfort Headphones debut with several features once reserved for Bose's premium headphones, excellent ANC, and an updated design.
The QC Headphones 2 retain the first generation's $359 price tag, 24 hours of battery life, and compatibility with Bose's app for audio customization.