pilaar39's Full Review: Bose QuietComfort 2 Consumer Headphones
I had picked up a set of SonyNC headphones for $49 at Costco, and was very disappointed. Poor noise cancellation, and the over-the-ear style was very susceptible to wind noise when walking outside.
I returned them, and spent the big bucks for a pair of QC2s, and I must say there is a world of difference. Extremely good noise cancellation. Went for a walk listening to some tunes on my iPod, and heard no lawnmowers, noisy vehicles, or airplanes passing overhead.
The over-the-ear QC2s provide both passive and active noise cancellation; the QC3s on-the-ear model does not provide this extra passive noise cancellation.
Now, I must say, reading other reviews here, that I am no audiophile and at age 62, my hearing is dropping off on the high frequencies, so I really can't comment on the frequency response of these headphones. But, in my opinion, they provide great audio for my purposes (and ears). The only drawback is that you need to crank up the audio on an iPod to get good sound. I find that I have to set my iPod volume control at about 75% - which of course will drain the iPod battery faster than normal operation.
The padded cushions are quite comfortable, although they can get a bit hot to wear in warm weather. They are also larger and heavier than normal, so don't expect to go running or vigorously exercising with them on - they will probably fall off.
The set comes with a 2-prong adaptor for the proprietary audio jacks on some airplanes. Also, and extra long cable and even an extension cable in case you happen to be sitting about 15 feet from your audio source.
The single AAA battery is neatly concealed in one of the head phone cups - so well concealed that I had to consult the manual to find out where the put in the battery. One downside - the phones will not work without a battery, even without noise cancellation.
The cable on the QC2 is removable, in case you just want noise cancellation and not listen to an audio source. This cable also has a high-low switch to control to audio source.. either from an mp3 player or from airline audio source.
The QC2 comes with a semi-rigid carrying case, which is somewhat large and bulky, but on the upside, you can also carry your iPod in the case along with the headphones. The headphone cups fold down 90 degrees for more compact storage.
The headband is padded - great for people with little of no hair left on their head.
The audio cable is a soft pliable rubber composite, not hard stiff plastic, and is tangle free and easy to use.
One thing I think should be added: automatic shut off when there is no audio signal for at least a minute. Easy to fall asleep witht them on, and it would be good to have them shut off when the music stops.
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