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Bose QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling
Headphones Review
Bose have once again defines the headphone market
with the QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones (QC3) that
deliver one of the most impressive audio experiences of the 21st
century. For those that are unfamiliar with Bose multimedia audio
technology,
this company can only be considered the elite of audio
advancements and after years of researching the market of headphones,
the developers have come up with novel concept that not only delivers
superior noise-reduction but also miniaturized what some considered
impossible.
Specifications
- An
unmatched combination of noise reduction,
audio performance and comfortable fit for
on-ear headphones.
- New, small
design for lightweight convenience and
portability.
- Folds flat
for easy storage in slim carrying case.
-
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger
included.
- Detachable
audio cable for noise reduction enjoyment.
Initial Thoughts
The presentation of the QC3 has a modern feel to it that comes in a
black slim carry case that includes a plethora of extras such as
adapters for airplanes, stereos and amplifiers and an impressive five
foot long extension cable. Interestingly enough, the headphones neatly
rest inside the carry case and once unfolded, battery installed
(after it's been charged) and connected to your audio device, you are
ready to experience an otherworldly audio experience.
Style
The design of the QC3 are spectacular and comfortably fit on your ears
without any unnecessary pressure, thanks for the supra-aural design.
Unlike other headphones, the QC3 rest on your outer ears and in order to
maximise comfort and noise reduction, Bose have added soft leather pads
with cushioning that works wonders. The headphones can almost be used
exclusively as earplugs with the noise-reducing capabilities that truly
make this one hot device.
There is also power switch on the headphones that glows red when turned
on but unfortunately the headphones cannot be used when the battery is
flat or removed. Needless to say, it's a small price pay for the
noise-reduction capabilities and its super-fast battery charging.
Statistics
-
Dimensions:
172 mm x H 213mm x D 51mm (Headphones
in carrying case)
-
Headphones weight:
145g (with battery/
without cable)
-
Battery
run time:
Approximately 20 hours
-
Battery life: 500
recharge cycles
-
Warranty: A written one-year
transferable warranty remains with the
product even if ownership passes to another
person.
- Colour:
Silver
Noise Reduction
The main feature of the QC3 is the noise reduction aspect of the device
which reduces a majority of background noise and in operation, it does a
remarkable job. The device was tested on a flight from Melbourne to
Sydney which reduced the airplane noise to a hush and other sounds were
muted, although you could still hear some sound.
The main point however,
is that the QC3 reduces the majority of background sound to allow the
listener to really enjoy their music or audio experience. Whether it was
in a business mall in Melbourne or the Circular Quay Station in Sydney,
Bose have really achieved the impossible by making their noise-reducing
headphones smaller without any cost to quality or performance.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Bose QC3 is several pars above their
competitors with exceptionally clear sound clarity. The unit was tested
on a variety of devices that included a PC, iPod, XBox 360 and a Philips
DVD player. Needless to say, the quality on all devices was superb and
even the subtle aspects of music or even the background ambience in a
game or DVD came through exceptionally clear. Another impressive feature of
the headphones is the base that really portrays an earthy feel to the
sound which is great for games, movies and music.
Lithium-ion battery & Charger
The device also comes with a high quality lithium-ion battery that
according to Bose can be charged around 500 times for 20 hours of
continuos audio enjoyment. With these figures in mind, that is basically
416 days of music from the one battery and for those that wish to
purchase a spare battery, these can be purchased separately for an
additional cost. With that said, the initial battery charge takes around
2 hours with subsequent charges taking around 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Although the cost of the QC3 ($599AUD) may deter some users, the
headphones are easily worth every cent which truly immerses the user
into the glorious world of music and sound. Whether you're connected to
your iPod, listening to music in a plane or enjoying a gaming session in
front of your plasma TV, the QC3 nullifies almost all background noise,
giving you a harmonious listening session to your favourite tunes.
With one year-warranty by Bose, two rechargeable batteries that can be
charged up to 500 times each and a compact carry case, there is little
to complain about this pair of headphones that is strictly designed for
all lovers of audio that simply want the best. Highly Recommended
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