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Bose QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones for Apple devices - Black (Wired 3.5mm)
Brand | Bose |
Model Name | QuietComfort 25 |
Color | Black |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Connectivity Technology | Wired |
About this item
- Apple compatible devices Applies to: QC 25 noise cancelling headphones Apple devices The remote and mic are compatible with the following Apple devices: iPhone 3GS or later iPad iPod touch 2nd generation or later iPod classic 120GB, 160GB iPod nano 4th generation or later
- Deep, powerful sound for the music you love
- Lightweight, comfortable around ear fit you can wear all day long
- Control your music and calls on Apple devices with inline mic/remote
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In the box
Included items
- QuietComfort 25 headphones
- 56-inch QC25 inline remote and microphone cable
- Airline adapter
- Carrying case
- AAA battery
The best-performing around-ear headphones from Bose.
QuietComfort 25 headphones are engineered to sound better, be more comfortable and easier to take with you. Put them on, and suddenly everything changes. Your music is deep, powerful and balanced, and so quiet that every note sounds clearer. Even air travel becomes enjoyable, as engine roar gently fades away. No matter how noisy the world is, it’s just you and your music—or simply peace and quiet.
- Significant noise reduction for travel, work and anywhere in between
- Deep, powerful sound for the music you love
- Lightweight, comfortable around-ear fit you can wear all day long
- Control your music and calls on Apple devices with inline mic/remote
- Distinctive design in Black or White
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Price | $158.00$158.00 | -29% $249.00$249.00 List: $349.00 | $329.99$329.99 | $225.55$225.55 | -20% $278.00$278.00 List: $348.00 | -17% $49.99$49.99 List: $59.99 |
Delivery | Get it May 22 - 23 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it May 21 - 29 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | 2.7 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.4 |
Battery life | 2.3 | 4.5 | — | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 |
Noise cancellation | — | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.2 |
Bass quality | — | — | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.3 |
Comfort | — | — | 4.7 | 5.0 | — | 3.0 |
Sold By | VintTech | Amazon.com | Y&R Bundles | WirelessWorld18 | Amazon.com | AnkerDirect |
connectivity tech | Wired | Wireless, Wired | Wireless | Wireless, Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0, Bluetooth | Wireless |
headphones form factor | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear |
connector type | 3.5mm Jack | 2.5mm Jack | — | plug,wireless | USB Type C | 3.5mm Jack |
noise control | active noise cancellation | — | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation |
headphones jack | 3.5 mm Jack | — | — | — | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
cable feature | Detachable | Without Cable, Retractable | Without Cable | Without Cable | Detachable, Without Cable | Without Cable |
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Product information
Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
---|---|
Special Feature | Noise-Cancelling-Feature, lightweight |
Included Components | Headphones, Cable, Battery, Protective Case, Adapter |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Material | Plastic |
Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
Charging Time | 30 Watts |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Compatible Devices | Compatible with the following Apple devices: iPhone 3GS or later iPad iPod touch 2nd generation or later iPod classic 120GB, 160GB iPod nano 4th generation or later |
Control Type | Touch Control |
Cable Feature | Detachable |
Item Weight | 6.9 Ounces |
Package Type | Standard Packaging |
Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
Style | Apple Devices |
Control Method | Remote |
Number of Items | 1 |
Cable Length | 56 Inches |
Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
Carrying Case Weight | 6.9 Ounces |
Manufacturer | Bose Corporation |
Item Weight | 6.9 ounces |
Department | Electronics |
ASIN | B00M1NEUKK |
Item model number | 715053-0010 |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. (included) |
Customer Reviews |
4.5 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #46,535 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #1,453 in Over-Ear Headphones |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | September 14, 2014 |
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Product Description
QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones are the best performing around ear headphones from Bose. They give you crisp, powerful sound and quiet that lets you hear your music better. Bose advances their industry leading headphones with the latest proprietary Bose Active EQ and TriPort technology, giving the music you love deep, clear sound. At the same time, Bose noise cancelling technology monitors the noise around you and cancels it out, helping you focus on what you want to hear whether it’s your music, your calls or simply peace and quiet. With a distinctive design and two color options to match your style, these headphones look as good as they sound. They’re also comfortable, durably made and easy to stow, with earcups that pivot to fit in a small carrying case. Customized for Apple devices. Included: QuietComfort 25 headphones; 56 inch QC25 inline remote and microphone cable; airline adapter; carrying case; AAA battery.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the comfort, appearance and size of the headphones. For example, they mention that they are very comfortable, attractive and that they take up less room in their bag. They are also satisfied with the sound quality and quality. That said, opinions are mixed on battery life, performance, and value.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the sound quality of the headphones. For example, they say the audio quality is very good, they completely suppress wind and road noise while driving, and some hums disappear completely. That said, some complain that the headphones do not work well for noise cancelling.
"...Although the audio quality is very good, I prefer other headphones while on the ground, mostly because these aren't as precise as some others that I..." Read more
"...for my replacement headphones were: comfort, sound quality, noise cancelation, noise leakage, craftsmanship/durability, battery life, case, style,..." Read more
"...Overall these headphones sounds great. I am not saying that they are the best sounding $300 on headphones are the market, but they are way up there...." Read more
"...Some hums disappear completely whereas others are greatly muted, and sometimes I use them without any music to just cancel noise while I read or try..." Read more
Customers like the quality of the headphones. They say they're well-built, sturdy, and stand up to the job. Customers also mention that the cord is made with sturdy gold-plated ends. Overall, they find the product to be well thought out and nicely executed.
"...The build quality is good, with comfortable padding around the ears. The ear cups float on articulated joints to adjust to a variety of head shapes...." Read more
"...Even the cord is made with sturdy gold-plated ends. They flex well and seem like they would last a long time even on larger heads...." Read more
"...happy with those until the "leather" earpiece muffs and headband started to disintegrate...." Read more
"...The cloth on headband of the 25's feels very high quality and seems like it would be very easy and simple to clean, if need be...." Read more
Customers like the comfort of the headphones. They say the padding around the ears is comfortable and soft. The transition was eerily comforting, making them less tired after the flight.
"...The build quality is good, with comfortable padding around the ears. The ear cups float on articulated joints to adjust to a variety of head shapes...." Read more
"...into consideration when looking for my replacement headphones were: comfort, sound quality, noise cancelation, noise leakage, craftsmanship/..." Read more
"...They sounded great and they were very comfortable, however, when in a loud environment the sound quality diminished greatly. With the QC 25's...." Read more
"...but it's definitely quiet enough to concentrate and comfortable enough to wear for hours...." Read more
Customers like the size of the headphones. They mention that the case is very attractive and slightly more compact than the QC15, with a nifty hinge. They fold up rather small and fit neatly into the case, leaving just enough room for the headphones to fit. Some say that the cups are not too big and that the headphones are extremely comfortable and easily portable.
"...25 is more compact that the one for the QC15, and so takes up less room in my bag, something I was initially worried about since space is always at..." Read more
"...The headphones fold up rather small and fit neatly into the case leaving just enough room for the included headphone cable and maybe an adapter or..." Read more
"...The case is the perfect size, and it fits almost anywhere just perfectly. It is much better than the QC 15 case...." Read more
"...I like the compact case and the adapter for planes with the double-plug audio ports has come in use, as well as the space for an extra battery..." Read more
Customers like the appearance of the headphones. They mention that it has an attractive design, and is well-designed and built. They also appreciate the carrying case, and the shining Bose logo.
"...noise leakage, craftsmanship/durability, battery life, case, style, features (wireless/playback control/etc), and price...." Read more
"...The design of these headphones is absolutely superb. They plastics feel very sturdy, and they have yet to be scratched...." Read more
"...Then, the case. Nestled in the beautiful little, protective yet stylish, case are what look like an earthly device. No, it's just a disguise...." Read more
"...Pro: The case is very attractive and slightly more compact than the QC15, with a nifty holder for the airplane adapter a spare battery.-..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the performance of the headphones. Some mention that they work well, while others say that they stopped working shortly after purchase. Some customers also report that the ligtening adapter will eventually stop working.
"...Sound Quality - 5/5 - Excellent and well balanced. If you're looking for headphones that just amplify the lows and the highs, these are not for you...." Read more
"...And these do NOT play well with any sort of bass boosting...." Read more
"...THE GOOD: Regarding noise cancellation and sound quality it's great for my needs, which is mostly to quiet out the drone of airplanes/trains/cars..." Read more
"...to any I’ve ever worn due to pierced ears, they operate just like my electronic shooting muffs, gently squeezing instead of a harsh pressure after 30..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the headphones. Some mention that it is worth the price, while others say that it's pricey.
"...For the quality and package you get the price is fair...." Read more
"Although these headphones are pricey, they are well worth it. They are a marked improvement in sound quality and design from the QC 15's...." Read more
"...Overall, they are expensive headphones, but you are paying for some comfortable, well-built, compact headphones with amazing noise cancellation with..." Read more
"...It really does seal out the world. Yes, it is worth the price. Kudos to the teams responsible for such a fine product." Read more
Customers are mixed about the battery life of the headphones. Some mention that it runs off of one AAA battery, and the extra battery is a nice touch. However, others say that the noise canceling feature causes the batteries to die quickly.
"...It comes with one AAA battery, an airplane adapter, and the detachable cable with in-line mic and music controls.-- Debbie Lee Wesselmann" Read more
"...I left mine on, and the battery was dead a few days later when I was on my return flight...." Read more
"...noise cancelation, noise leakage, craftsmanship/durability, battery life, case, style, features (wireless/playback control/etc), and price...." Read more
"...Overall these headphones are great. The design, sound quality, battery life, cable and case are all superb...." Read more
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Design:
The design of these headphones is absolutely superb. They plastics feel very sturdy, and they have yet to be scratched. I never worry about these headphone getting damaged simply because of how solid they feel. The headphone cups rotate to lay flat when around your neck, but they only rotate about half that in the other direction. This has never been a problem in any way for me. One thing that I really like about these headphones is that when I use them just for the noise cancelling, there isn't a massive gap on the side of my headphones where the cable plugs in. It does not effect anything except for the aesthetics. The outside of the headphone (with the Bose label) is made of some sort of metal, presumably aluminum. This also adds to the overall aura of quality that surrounds these headphones. Another thing that I really like about these headphones is that the headband no longer has leather wrapped on the top. While it looks and feels great at first, after a few years this leather starts to break down and flake off. Again, it's not the end of the world, but it doesn't look the greatest when it happens. The cloth on headband of the 25's feels very high quality and seems like it would be very easy and simple to clean, if need be. Although these headphones are slightly heavier than my old AE2's, even after 6+ hours I can barely tell that they are there. As is with all Bose around-ear headphones, there cups feel heavenly, and are easily replaceable. These headphones definitely feel like they are designed to last.
Sound Quality:
As I mentioned earlier, these headphone are a marked improvement in terms of sound quality over its predecessor. They don't feel "closed off ", as the 15's do, and they are definitely louder. When the noise cancelling is off the sound quality definitely drops, but it is still better than a lot of headphones on the market. The biggest difference between having the noise cancelling off and on was the volume of the music. I would definitely recommend listening to music with the noise cancelling on, otherwise, what's the point? Overall these headphones sounds great. I am not saying that they are the best sounding $300 on headphones are the market, but they are way up there. An important note is that while there are better sounding headphones out there, none of them can boast the level of noise cancelling that the 25's do, and that is a huge deal when yours on a bus or plane, or somewhere generally loud.
Noise Cancelling:
When compared to the 15's you would be hard pressed to notice a difference with the noise cancelling. Not to say that the noise cancelling needed improvement, but if you're buying these headphone just for the noise cancelling you might want to consider the 15's if the $300 price tag seems just a tad too high. That being said, I love the noise cancelling on these headphones. They block out all of the low frequencies, and drastically reduce the volume of higher frequencies. The result is that you will most likely be able to have a normal conversation with someone while wearing these (no music of course). I use these headphones at work when I am down in the shop, and I never cease to be impressed by these headphones. When I traveled to London a couple years ago my girlfriend and I could have a normal conversation while wearing these (she has the 15's), when no one else could hear us. I also wear these headphones a lot in the car (not when I'm driving, of course), and they make a long car ride a heck of a lot more bearable. Also, as I mentioned earlier, the greatest thing about the 25's is that your music always sounds great, no matter how loud it is around you. When is comes to noise cancelling, Bose is the best.
Battery and Case:
As for the battery, I seem to get right around 35 hours on a AAA. The case also has a very convenient spot for a spare battery. The case is the perfect size, and it fits almost anywhere just perfectly. It is much better than the QC 15 case. It is a semi-hard case, which is good for finding a place to put it, and since the headphones are so durable themselves, the case definitely does not need to be hard.
Overall these headphones are great. The design, sound quality, battery life, cable and case are all superb. I would definitely recommend these headphones for anyone who loves music, and ever has to be in a noisy environment (i.e. everyone). This is definitely one of the best purchases, and I look forward to using these headphones for years to come.
If you've never used active noise cancelling headphones, then it helps to understand what you're getting. Active noise cancelling technology uses an electronic hiss, powered by a battery, to cancel out a specific noise frequency, one that is created by engine whine or other mechanical sounds. These are not soundproof headphones or ear protection. You can hear the voices around you, albeit muffled. For instance, when the pilot comes on over the PA system, I can hear it and might even be able to hear exactly what's being said, even if I'm listening to music or a movie. (I don't use a high volume, though.) The kicker, though, is how much engine whine is filtered out. Most people aren't aware of just how loud the inside of a plane cabin is -- and you won't, probably, unless you use noise-cancelling headphones. Bose is unparalleled in noise cancellation technology -- my Sennheisers were good, but not this effective -- and, as a result, I turned these on without sound for a couple of hours just to protect my ears.
Although the audio quality is very good, I prefer other headphones while on the ground, mostly because these aren't as precise as some others that I own. They do reproduce a full range, from bass to treble, though, so if you can only afford one set and need noise cancellation features as well as excellent sound, then don't hesitate with the Bose. You won't find another headphone with this quality of noise cancellation, period, so you'll end up disappointed by compromising. Flicking the noise cancellation on improves the sound, even without engine whine, by giving it more depth, although, again, the sound is fine even in regular mode. Still, at the price, I wouldn't recommend these unless you need the noise cancellation.
The build quality is good, with comfortable padding around the ears. The ear cups float on articulated joints to adjust to a variety of head shapes. That said, these headphones pose certain problems for women in particular. I cannot wear earrings, even studs, without some discomfort, and the articulated part over the ear cups sometimes catches my hair and pulls out a few strands. Those of us with smaller heads don't get the same contact of the headphones against the head. My husband tried on mine, and the cups made full contact around his ears while I had a slight, almost impercepible gap. The headpiece is adjustable for larger heads. I have to use mine on the smallest setting. The inside of the ear cups is blue with huge R and L on the fabric. It looks tacky but it's extremely useful, and I see it only when I first take them out of the case.
For those who are contemplating whether to get over-the-head or in-ear headphones: in-ear models tend to block out more ambient sound. They plug your ears in ways an over-ear one will not. Bose makes an in-ear noise cancelling set (QC20) that I was considering before I bought these, and I now wonder if they would have been better for me since in-ear doesn't bug me the way that it does other people. My Ultimate Ears in-ear set blocks out sound better, although not engine noise. I went for the known quantity, however, since I had tried my husband's. As I said earlier, I'm not sure I made the right choice even though I'm extremely happy with the performance of the QC25.
The case for the QuietComfort 25 is more compact that the one for the QC15, and so takes up less room in my bag, something I was initially worried about since space is always at a premium. It comes with one AAA battery, an airplane adapter, and the detachable cable with in-line mic and music controls.
-- Debbie Lee Wesselmann
Top reviews from other countries
Reviewed in Sweden on April 26, 2024
Puede ser de gran utilidad este producto para trabajar tanto sólo, como en una oficina congestionada, en el avión para evitar escuchar niños llorando, la turbina, o conversaciones de otras personas, ir en transporte público, etc.
Utiliza una batería AAA, por lo cual recomendaría que compren un par de ellas recargables. Tener una de ellas en el aparato y otra de ellas en la funda (hay un compartimiento especial para colocar una pila extra AAA). Cabe recalcar que dice que la batería debe de durar 35 horas. Yo debo de llevar ya unas 20 horas usándolos y sigue funcionando, por lo cual vamos en buen camino. Los audífonos siguen funcionando aún sin batería, con los únicos inconvenientes de que baja de calidad el sonido y deja de funcionar la cancelación de ruido. No obstante, es importante recalcarlo para que sepan que pueden seguir utilizando los audífonos aunque se queden sin batería.
En cuanto al precio, yo los conseguí en el buen fin por Amazon MX rebajados de 6,000 pesos a 4,000 (este descuento fue por parte de Bose a nivel internacional por el Black Friday y Cyber Monday), y además me hicieron un 10% adicional de descuento por el buen fin, por lo cual terminé pagando 3,600 pesos por mis audífonos. Aproveché el buen precio y le compré unos a mi papá. Prácticamente me salieron al 2x1.
Son muy cómodos, he trabajado más de 3 horas seguidas con ellos puestos y no he tenido ningún inconveniente. Aunque puedes tardar en acostumbrarte al abismo de silencio que se siente cuando prendes la cancelación de sonido, pero para eso los quieres, no?
En cuanto a funcionalidad, yo logré convertirlos en audífonos inalámbricos comprando un aparatito que se llama "Poyatu Bluetooth Adapter for Bose OE2 OE2i QC25 QuietComfort25 SoundTrue On-Ear Around-ear Headphones Wireless Cable" y lo pueden encontrar en Amazon Estados Unidos (Amazon.com). Cuesta solamente $20 dólares, y es una maravilla puesto que cumple su función de convertir los audífonos en inalámbricos. Les comparto el link a este producto complemento que les ayuda a convertir sus audífonos en inalámbricos: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IIIIHK0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Si alguien tiene alguna duda que pueda responderles, no duden en contestar a mi reseña y con gusto les contestaré a la brevedad.
他のメーカーのものを使ったことがないので比較できませんがとりあえず星5つです。
Design
While the incredibly comfortable QC 25 retains the overall look and feel of it predecessors, there are design updates that seem to acknowledge that a simple black-and-metallic design no longer cuts it in the current headphone market. There's now a white-and-tan color option in addition to the more standard black-and-gray model. If that's not enough for you, you can customize your headphones for a little extra and give them a variety of wild color combinations. It's a decidedly un-Bose move, and speaks to the influence Beats has had on headphone design.Bose QuietComfort 25 inline
The headband is covered by canvas-like cloth on the top, with ample padding on the underside. The circumaural (over-ear) earcups are, as always, exceedingly plush. Aqua blue grilles line the insides of the earcups, with large L and R letters identifying each cup's respective ear.
A detachable cable connects to the left earcup, and the Power switch (which light ups green and activates the noise cancellation circuitry) is located on the right ear. Bose has made a significant design improvement in the QC 25 and given it an ability previous QuietComfort models lacked: It can be used as passive headphones without power. In other words, you can still listen to audio when the battery is dead, or simply when you don't really need the noise cancellation feature running. There's no auto-off function, so it's pretty easy to mistakenly leave the Power on and kill your battery quickly, leaving you with no noise cancellation feature (but at least with a pair of still-functional headphones).
The included cable features an inline remote control and microphone. Many headphone pairs these days ship with a second replacement cable, and it would have been a nice inclusion with the QC 25 for this price.
Bose occasionally takes something as mundane as the zip-up protective case and makes it worth talking about, and that's the deal with the QC 25's included case. There's an etched diagram inside displaying how the headphones fold down to perfectly fit the case's slim contours, something other headphone companies would benefit from copying. A small compartment houses an extra AAA battery and the airplane jack adapter, handy things to keep on-hand. It isn't fancy, but it makes more efficient use of a small amount of space than most headphone cases do, allowing the QC 25 to be a better travel companion.
Performance
Bose's noise cancellation circuitry continues to be the best in the business. Although the in-ear QuietComfort 20 blocks out more ambient noise, the new QC 25 does an amazing job of shutting down the drones, whirs, and hums of modern life. You can still hear someone talking to you fairly easily when the QC25 is engaged; with the in-ear pair, someone could be trying to talk to you and you might not even notice. However, the entire QC lineup including this pair manages to simply be the best at reducing the constant clamor of work environments, planes, trains, and machines.
In passive mode, the treble and bass are both dialed back dramatically, along with the overall volume level. Switch to active mode to enable the noise-canceling feature and things get brighter, deeper, and louder. If there was ever a knock on the QC series, it was that the headphones didn't sound particularly amazing. Over time, however, the line has introduced more balanced sound signatures.
On tracks like The Knife's "Silent Shout," which has a tremendous level of sub-bass content, the QC 25 delivers quite a bit of low-end. The QC 25 doesn't distort even at top, unsafe listening levels, and the bass is intense. More moderate listening levels still feature plenty of bass response, but it's not quite as boosted as a Beats headphone pair.
Bill Callahan's baritone vocals have a richness to them that needs little help in "Drover," but the QC 25 boosts the lows and low-mids a bit, anyway. The drums get heavier than they need to, but again the bass boosting doesn't approach ridiculous levels.
On Jay-Z and Kanye West's "No Church in the Wild," the kick drum loop's attack gets enough high-mid presence to retain its sharpness and slice through this dense mix. The sub-bass synth hits that punctuate the beat don't get nearly as much low-frequency boost as they would on a heavier-bass set, but they still sound quite powerful.
Classical tracks get a nice low and low-mid boost that allows the lower register strings to stand out a bit more than they normally would. The high-mids and highs, meanwhile, stand out enough to allow the vocal parts and the higher-register strings to retain the spotlight. This is a crisp, clear response, with some flashes of added richness in the bass realm. It's the Bose sound: Brightness with bass, but not too much bass.
If the mega-bass experience is what you're looking for, the Beats Studio is a powerful option with decent noise cancellation, and the AKG K 490 NC is one of the best-sounding pairs with noise cancellation (but not the best noise cancellation itself) we've tested. If you're looking for the best noise cancellation available, that honor still belongs to the Bose QC 20 earphones. And if you're on a budget, but still want some decent noise cancellation, the in-ear Phiaton PS 20 NC offers a reasonably effective experience.
At £170, the Bose QuietComfort 25 is still a noise-canceling headphone pair first and a music lover's headphone pair second. But Bose introduces new improvements (like passive listening mode) with every model that keep QuietComfort on top of the noise cancellation market.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 24, 2017
Design
While the incredibly comfortable QC 25 retains the overall look and feel of it predecessors, there are design updates that seem to acknowledge that a simple black-and-metallic design no longer cuts it in the current headphone market. There's now a white-and-tan color option in addition to the more standard black-and-gray model. If that's not enough for you, you can customize your headphones for a little extra and give them a variety of wild color combinations. It's a decidedly un-Bose move, and speaks to the influence Beats has had on headphone design.Bose QuietComfort 25 inline
The headband is covered by canvas-like cloth on the top, with ample padding on the underside. The circumaural (over-ear) earcups are, as always, exceedingly plush. Aqua blue grilles line the insides of the earcups, with large L and R letters identifying each cup's respective ear.
A detachable cable connects to the left earcup, and the Power switch (which light ups green and activates the noise cancellation circuitry) is located on the right ear. Bose has made a significant design improvement in the QC 25 and given it an ability previous QuietComfort models lacked: It can be used as passive headphones without power. In other words, you can still listen to audio when the battery is dead, or simply when you don't really need the noise cancellation feature running. There's no auto-off function, so it's pretty easy to mistakenly leave the Power on and kill your battery quickly, leaving you with no noise cancellation feature (but at least with a pair of still-functional headphones).
The included cable features an inline remote control and microphone. Many headphone pairs these days ship with a second replacement cable, and it would have been a nice inclusion with the QC 25 for this price.
Bose occasionally takes something as mundane as the zip-up protective case and makes it worth talking about, and that's the deal with the QC 25's included case. There's an etched diagram inside displaying how the headphones fold down to perfectly fit the case's slim contours, something other headphone companies would benefit from copying. A small compartment houses an extra AAA battery and the airplane jack adapter, handy things to keep on-hand. It isn't fancy, but it makes more efficient use of a small amount of space than most headphone cases do, allowing the QC 25 to be a better travel companion.
Performance
Bose's noise cancellation circuitry continues to be the best in the business. Although the in-ear QuietComfort 20 blocks out more ambient noise, the new QC 25 does an amazing job of shutting down the drones, whirs, and hums of modern life. You can still hear someone talking to you fairly easily when the QC25 is engaged; with the in-ear pair, someone could be trying to talk to you and you might not even notice. However, the entire QC lineup including this pair manages to simply be the best at reducing the constant clamor of work environments, planes, trains, and machines.
In passive mode, the treble and bass are both dialed back dramatically, along with the overall volume level. Switch to active mode to enable the noise-canceling feature and things get brighter, deeper, and louder. If there was ever a knock on the QC series, it was that the headphones didn't sound particularly amazing. Over time, however, the line has introduced more balanced sound signatures.
On tracks like The Knife's "Silent Shout," which has a tremendous level of sub-bass content, the QC 25 delivers quite a bit of low-end. The QC 25 doesn't distort even at top, unsafe listening levels, and the bass is intense. More moderate listening levels still feature plenty of bass response, but it's not quite as boosted as a Beats headphone pair.
Bill Callahan's baritone vocals have a richness to them that needs little help in "Drover," but the QC 25 boosts the lows and low-mids a bit, anyway. The drums get heavier than they need to, but again the bass boosting doesn't approach ridiculous levels.
On Jay-Z and Kanye West's "No Church in the Wild," the kick drum loop's attack gets enough high-mid presence to retain its sharpness and slice through this dense mix. The sub-bass synth hits that punctuate the beat don't get nearly as much low-frequency boost as they would on a heavier-bass set, but they still sound quite powerful.
Classical tracks get a nice low and low-mid boost that allows the lower register strings to stand out a bit more than they normally would. The high-mids and highs, meanwhile, stand out enough to allow the vocal parts and the higher-register strings to retain the spotlight. This is a crisp, clear response, with some flashes of added richness in the bass realm. It's the Bose sound: Brightness with bass, but not too much bass.
If the mega-bass experience is what you're looking for, the Beats Studio is a powerful option with decent noise cancellation, and the AKG K 490 NC is one of the best-sounding pairs with noise cancellation (but not the best noise cancellation itself) we've tested. If you're looking for the best noise cancellation available, that honor still belongs to the Bose QC 20 earphones. And if you're on a budget, but still want some decent noise cancellation, the in-ear Phiaton PS 20 NC offers a reasonably effective experience.
At £170, the Bose QuietComfort 25 is still a noise-canceling headphone pair first and a music lover's headphone pair second. But Bose introduces new improvements (like passive listening mode) with every model that keep QuietComfort on top of the noise cancellation market.