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Bose upgrades QuietComfort headphones with spatial audio, better ANC and a fresh new look

Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)_Eucalyptus Green worn on head

Bose is bringing its flagship immersive audio tech to the latest generation of its best selling QuietComfort noise cancelling headphones.

It’s one of several upgrades for its 2nd Gen model, which also includes  improved noise cancelling  and a breezy new design. The headphones launch in the familiar Black and White Smoke finishes, alongside three limited-edition options: Eucalyptus Green, Dewdrop Mint and Rosewood Mauve.  

First seen on the brand’s Ultra Series, Bose TrueSpatial technology delivers a virtualised stereo sound listening experience from any audio source, placing the listener directly in the sweet spot as if they were listening to a 2.0 stereo system. 

There are three spatial audio options – Still, Motion and Cinema – able to create a virtualised stereo presentation from any audio source.

Still Mode keeps sound anchored in the room as you move your head. Motion allows the audio to follow head movement and is intended for listening when out and about. Cinema Mode offers a more theatrical presentation, widening the soundstage while keeping dialogue centred.

First seen on the brand’s Ultra Series, Bose TrueSpatial technology introduces three spatial audio options…

Bose QuietComfort 2nd Gen noise cancellation

Obviously, noise cancellation remains central to the QuietComfort proposition. Bose now refers to this as QuietControl. The six-microphone system has been redesigned to compensate more effectively for gaps between the earcups and the listener’s head. The company has also refined ActiveSense in Aware Mode. It now applies noise cancellation more smoothly when sudden sounds occur, such as a passing train.

The level of noise cancellation can be adjusted manually through the Bose app or switched off completely. You can also create Custom Modes, allowing you to balance noise cancellation and acoustic transparency.  

When it comes to control, buttons on the right earcup handle playback, volume and calls, while the left earcup provides access to listening modes and shortcuts. 

 Comfort and battery life

Comfort is also getting a bump. The headband has more generous synthetic leather cushioning, and clamping force has been optimised for a secure but lightweight fit; new oval-shaped earcups create a cleaner silhouette.

Bluetooth 5.4 with Multipoint allows two devices to remain connected simultaneously. Google Fast Pair is also provided. Audiophiles will appreciate lossless wired playback through USB-C, able to support hi-res up to 24-bit/48kHz.  

Battery life is rated at up to 24 hours, falling to 18 hours when Bose Immersive Audio is enabled. A 15-minute quick charge provides up to 2.5 hours of playback. The ability to charge and listen simultaneously through USB-C adds another cool new option.

The Bose QuietComfort 2nd Gen headphones hit stores August 13, priced at £299.95.

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About Steve May

Creator of Home Cinema Choice magazine, and Editor of The Luxe Review, Steve muses and reviews for Trusted Reviews, T3, Home Cinema Choice, Games Radar, Good Housekeeping, Louder Sounds, StereoNet and Boat International. He’s also the editor of professional home cinema website Inside CI. He's on Twitter/X, Tiktok and Instagram as @SteveMay_UK