Bose today introduced new $300 noise-canceling over-ear headphones, QuietComfort 25 (QC25), which replace the QuietComfort 15 (QC15).
The QuietComfort 25 headphones feature audio advancements to reproduce music with improved clarity and accuracy. A more finely tuned Active EQ delivers a demonstrably smoother frequency response across the full spectrum of sound, regardless of listening level. TriPort technology delivers deep, detailed low notes, while a lower noise floor reduces the common “hiss” associated with conventional active noise cancelling headphones. The improvements can be heard and felt: every recording is reproduced more naturally, regardless of genre. There is no distortion or exaggeration of instruments or vocals.
Bose engineers placed microphones both inside and outside the earcup to better sense and measure unwanted sounds. The measurements are then sent to a digital electronic chip, exclusive to Bose, that calculates a more precise equal and opposite noise cancellation signal — within a fraction of a millisecond. So powerful, the Bose chip reduces the footprint of the headphone’s electronics, while delivering a new level of quiet for around-ear headphones. Distractions instantly fade away, even in the most demanding environments.
The QuietComfort 25 headphones have a new look and profile, steeped in the Bose brand — authentic, modern, and minimal. Its mechanical design, including materials, angles, arc lengths and headband radii, was re-engineered to sit closer to the head. The headband design is proprietary, and its pad uses an engineered fabric found in high-end automotive applications. The ear cushions are made of protein leather, and the earcups feature a soft-touch TPE bumper and cast zinc pivot. Comfortable and light-yet secure, the QC25 headphones are built to last, and fold and fit in a carrying case that’s smaller than any in the industry.
The QuietComfort 25 headphones come with a single AAA battery for up to 35 hours of use. And if the battery dies, the music plays on. An inline remote and mic make it easy to take calls with select iPod, iPhone and iPad models, and select smartphones.
“We improved nearly every dimension — greater noise reduction, lifelike audio, a striking new profile and styles, and a new earcup pivot to fold up smaller than ever,” said Sean Garrett, vice president of the Bose Noise Reduction Technology Group.
Pricing and Availability
The Bose QuietComfort 25 acoustic noise cancelling headphones will be available for $299.95 beginning September 3, 2014 in two variants: Black or White, each with blue accents. They can also be customized with a nearly limitless combination of colors for $399.95 for delivery in November 2014.