Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs NC 700: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

TL;DR

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers significant upgrades over the NC700, with improved active noise cancelling that reduces noise by about 10 dB more, enhanced battery life, and features like spatial audio. While the NC700 remains comfortable with superior sound for vocals, the Ultra's design and usability enhancements make it a compelling choice for users seeking improved performance.

Transcript

yes the B nc700s an old product it's been in the market for 4 years but it makes a lot of sense comparing them now to the Bose QC Ultra because of how popular these were back in the day and I'm sure that even now there are still people who are holding on to the 700s looking to upgrade but they aren't sure if it's Justified going for something like ... Read More

Key Insights

• 👤 The transition from the NC700 to QC Ultra reflects significant design changes based on user feedback, enhancing portability and usability.
• 👤 The QC Ultra's controls are now more user-friendly, positioned for quick access, which streamlines operation during use.
• 🛟 Improved battery life and features such as spatial audio provide added value to the QC Ultras for media consumption.
• 📲 Users with specific needs, such as clearer phone calls in loud settings, will find the QC Ultras superior due to their advanced noise-cancelling technology.
• 😒 The comfort level of the NC700s is heightened by their silicone headband, making them more suitable for prolonged use compared to the QC Ultras.
• 🥹 Despite newer technology in the QC Ultras, the NC700s still hold their ground with commendable sound quality and comfort.
• 💋 Support for aptX adaptive technology in QC Ultras enhances audio quality when paired with compatible devices, marking progress in sound streaming standards.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do the Bose QC Ultras compare to the NC700 in terms of design?

The design differences are significant; the QC Ultras feature a more conventional folding cup design instead of the one-piece headband of the NC700. This change responds to user feedback about portability. Additionally, all controls have been consolidated to the right ear cup, facilitating easier access with a thumb, enhancing user experience and convenience.

Q: What improvements does the QC Ultra present in noise cancellation over the NC700?

The QC Ultras provide about 10 dB more noise cancellation than the NC700s, making them superior in blocking ambient sounds in loud environments. This advancement is particularly useful in various noisy settings, such as cafes or during travel, where effective noise cancellation is crucial for an uninterrupted listening experience or phone calls.

Q: Can you discuss the sound quality differences between the two headphones?

Sound quality varies between the two types. The QC Ultras offer a more V-shaped frequency response, emphasizing bass and sound staging. In contrast, the NC700s feature a flatter response, resulting in clearer vocals and richer mids. Users seeking deeper bass may prefer the Ultras, while those valuing detailed vocals may lean towards the NC700s.

Q: Which headphone provides a better experience for phone calls in noisy environments?

While both headphones perform similarly in quiet settings, the QC Ultras have a slight edge in noisy environments, delivering better background noise cancellation during phone calls. This improvement makes them a preferable choice for users often in bustling surroundings where clarity in communication is essential.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Bose QC Ultra headphones offer notable enhancements over the older NC700s, particularly in design, with a new folding mechanism and an upgraded control scheme for more intuitive use.

• Active noise cancelling capabilities have improved significantly in the QC Ultras, providing approximately 10 dB more noise reduction than the NC700s in various environments, making them more effective in real-world scenarios.

• While the NC700s still excel in sound quality and comfort, the QC Ultras offer better battery life and additional features like spatial audio and aptX adaptive support when paired with compatible devices.