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on July 1, 2007
I recently got a pair of these from a local retail store for $100. A good family friend who worked there was able to acquire a discount. First, I will say that they are fantastic and lived up to everything I was hoping for. I'm a college student who not only lives with a roommate but also in a ground floor apartment. Before I had these, I used a pair of Memorex Noise Canceling headphones and even they were unable to completely ward off the sounds my roommate or neighbors would make; be it movie watching, DanceDance Revolution, or the occasional domestic violence. However, with my new Bose On-ear headphones I am able to listen to music or movies at a moderate and comfortable volume level while drowning out ambient noise. Peace and solitude are once again part of my life.
Quality. For months I tested these headphones on display at various stores and was astounded by the audio quality. The first thing I realized after buying them is that you can have the best set of headphones in the world but if your music isn't CD quality or better, it wont make a darn bit of difference. CD's, movies and MP3's 192kbps or more come through with amazing quality and clarity. I truly do find myself discovering nuances in my favorite songs which I had never heard before.
Comfort. I chose the on-ear headphones as opposed to the over the ear because I was worried about heat and extensive wear times. The on ear headphones still leave my ears a little warm and use for extended times (2+ Hours) leads to mild discomfort and the need to shift them around a little bit. Overall, I rate comfort a 4/5. Still better than any other headphones I've worn.
Durability. Admittedly, I did fall asleep wearing them once on the sofa. I actually rolled over on to them and in the process yanked the extension audio cable out of the main 1-inch connection line. I am glad to say they survived with no damage. While I do not recommend this to anyone else, I was at least relieved to see that they are more durable than I had feared upon buying them.
Price. This leads me to the single largest downfall of this wonderful product. I would never have purchased these at the full retail cost of $179, especially now that I've had them for a few weeks. Except maybe for the most regular airplane passengers, I can not think of any reason to pay more than $100 for them. Primarily for two reasons:
1) Extended wear can be slightly uncomfortable.
2) Audio quality is only as good as the source. No fault of the product of course, but it's something that Bose understandably doesn't like to remind consumers of.
If dropping $179 is of no consequence, you will not be disappointed. If you can get a good deal on them, even better.
Quality. For months I tested these headphones on display at various stores and was astounded by the audio quality. The first thing I realized after buying them is that you can have the best set of headphones in the world but if your music isn't CD quality or better, it wont make a darn bit of difference. CD's, movies and MP3's 192kbps or more come through with amazing quality and clarity. I truly do find myself discovering nuances in my favorite songs which I had never heard before.
Comfort. I chose the on-ear headphones as opposed to the over the ear because I was worried about heat and extensive wear times. The on ear headphones still leave my ears a little warm and use for extended times (2+ Hours) leads to mild discomfort and the need to shift them around a little bit. Overall, I rate comfort a 4/5. Still better than any other headphones I've worn.
Durability. Admittedly, I did fall asleep wearing them once on the sofa. I actually rolled over on to them and in the process yanked the extension audio cable out of the main 1-inch connection line. I am glad to say they survived with no damage. While I do not recommend this to anyone else, I was at least relieved to see that they are more durable than I had feared upon buying them.
Price. This leads me to the single largest downfall of this wonderful product. I would never have purchased these at the full retail cost of $179, especially now that I've had them for a few weeks. Except maybe for the most regular airplane passengers, I can not think of any reason to pay more than $100 for them. Primarily for two reasons:
1) Extended wear can be slightly uncomfortable.
2) Audio quality is only as good as the source. No fault of the product of course, but it's something that Bose understandably doesn't like to remind consumers of.
If dropping $179 is of no consequence, you will not be disappointed. If you can get a good deal on them, even better.
on December 10, 2010
Bose products usually have a bad rap here on the internet, especially from bloggers. Its the same kind of dislike for Bose products that alot of people also have for Apple products.
These headphones are lightweight, comfortable and very compact. Bose's staple is BIG sound out of small packages and in the case of these OE's they fit the bill well. Like with any good set of cans burn in is necessary to get the best sound. At first you may not be able to tell these cans from any other ones. But after 10 hours of burn in you will start to notice the great sound quality of these headphones. After 20 hours of burn in, you will realize why these mighty little headphones also have a mighty price tag.... They are worth it!
One thing that sets alot of Bose headphones apart from the competition is the bass and these cans are no exception. The OE's have great thumping bass, but unlike other headphones like the Beats by Dre for example, the bass doesnt come at the expense of the mids and highs. All are represented well here.
The one downside to some may be that the OE's arent noise canceling headphones. But thats not to say the comfy padding doesnt keep out some sound. But these cans are perfect for me as a parent because I need to hear at least a little of whats going on around me :)
These headphones have a sound like they are physically bigger than they really are, but at such a compact size and light weight, it makes them a must buy!
These headphones are lightweight, comfortable and very compact. Bose's staple is BIG sound out of small packages and in the case of these OE's they fit the bill well. Like with any good set of cans burn in is necessary to get the best sound. At first you may not be able to tell these cans from any other ones. But after 10 hours of burn in you will start to notice the great sound quality of these headphones. After 20 hours of burn in, you will realize why these mighty little headphones also have a mighty price tag.... They are worth it!
One thing that sets alot of Bose headphones apart from the competition is the bass and these cans are no exception. The OE's have great thumping bass, but unlike other headphones like the Beats by Dre for example, the bass doesnt come at the expense of the mids and highs. All are represented well here.
The one downside to some may be that the OE's arent noise canceling headphones. But thats not to say the comfy padding doesnt keep out some sound. But these cans are perfect for me as a parent because I need to hear at least a little of whats going on around me :)
These headphones have a sound like they are physically bigger than they really are, but at such a compact size and light weight, it makes them a must buy!
on February 16, 2010
I bought a pair of Bose On-Ear headphones in mid-2009. Within six weeks the left earpiece no longer produced sound. The headphones had to be returned to Bose for warranty service. Eight weeks later I received a replacement pair that I have now been using for four months. Now the right earpiece is no longer producing sound.
I guess I'll call Bose warranty service again and hope for another replacement pair.
UPDATE: Bose replaced my headphones without any hassles. They have excellent customer service. The new headphones work great. They definitely stand behind their products.
I guess I'll call Bose warranty service again and hope for another replacement pair.
UPDATE: Bose replaced my headphones without any hassles. They have excellent customer service. The new headphones work great. They definitely stand behind their products.
on December 2, 2007
I had purchased these after I had found out that they just came out. My Bose Triport headphones were in a gawdy state of being hideous to wear and I needed something new. The previous headphones were still in tip-top sounding shape, but the design...although light and comfortable, I had accidently broken the head strap on both sides...so I had to deal with using duct tape and electrical tape to mend them back together...I finally had enough of it and decided to purchase these and I had always expected the best from Bose. And as always, they impress me everytime.
I'm a high audiophile guy, a musician and a composer on the side, so I needed something that was at a reasonable price but produced incredible sonic sound. So what better company to pick than Bose? I've been buying their stuff since my first Bose 301 IV bookshelf speakers and every product they've come out have always impressed me. These headphones were everything I could had imagined. They carry out the low bass tones with ease and create those realistic highs without sacrificing frequencies. The company always noted that it created bass without the use of a bass boost on most cd and mp3 players....I never really thought so and never tried it out with my other heaphones...I love bass, who doesn't? But I decided to give it a whirl on these and to my astonishment they weren't lying. I have my iTunes EQ band setup where it's mostly focused on boosting the trebles which, in my preference, makes everything sound much better.
People always complain about the price of these products...and yeah, for 200 bucks for a pair of headphones sounds really crazy, but it really comes down to whether you want incredible sound or just decent/can-get-away-with sound. Plus it's Bose...yeah, sure you're probably paying more for the logo, but if you really do some study and research, the company puts a lot of time into their products to truly bring the best audio experience. And if you check out their other products on Amazon, their value usually stays the same. I've had my Bookshelf speakers for 4 years now and they still retain their value at $318.00. So if you buy these and end up needing or wanting to sell them (I can't see why you would want to) you'll more than likely get your money back at the price you paid for them. I know this is only a review, but seriously....the only way to truly know if these are worth it you need to try them out...bottom-line....you have to try them out for yourself to truly know what it's like to experience Bose sound from these incredible headphones.
J Scott Rakozy
I'm a high audiophile guy, a musician and a composer on the side, so I needed something that was at a reasonable price but produced incredible sonic sound. So what better company to pick than Bose? I've been buying their stuff since my first Bose 301 IV bookshelf speakers and every product they've come out have always impressed me. These headphones were everything I could had imagined. They carry out the low bass tones with ease and create those realistic highs without sacrificing frequencies. The company always noted that it created bass without the use of a bass boost on most cd and mp3 players....I never really thought so and never tried it out with my other heaphones...I love bass, who doesn't? But I decided to give it a whirl on these and to my astonishment they weren't lying. I have my iTunes EQ band setup where it's mostly focused on boosting the trebles which, in my preference, makes everything sound much better.
People always complain about the price of these products...and yeah, for 200 bucks for a pair of headphones sounds really crazy, but it really comes down to whether you want incredible sound or just decent/can-get-away-with sound. Plus it's Bose...yeah, sure you're probably paying more for the logo, but if you really do some study and research, the company puts a lot of time into their products to truly bring the best audio experience. And if you check out their other products on Amazon, their value usually stays the same. I've had my Bookshelf speakers for 4 years now and they still retain their value at $318.00. So if you buy these and end up needing or wanting to sell them (I can't see why you would want to) you'll more than likely get your money back at the price you paid for them. I know this is only a review, but seriously....the only way to truly know if these are worth it you need to try them out...bottom-line....you have to try them out for yourself to truly know what it's like to experience Bose sound from these incredible headphones.
J Scott Rakozy
on July 16, 2008
damn this things are amazing, i put off buying these for a while because YES, They are very expensive, however i decided to buy them about 2 weeks ago and they are amazing, i dont even miss the money!!!! everything sounds absolutely fantastic with these, bass is superb and so are the mids and highs, crystal clear sound. they seem sturdy enough to carry around but the carry case is portable enough if you wish to carry them in your backpack to skool or work or watever. You will not regret buying these babies they are fantastic. it is also worth mentioning that they are not noise cancelling but because of the super-confortable memory foam cushion material that adapt to the shape of your ears, THEY DO BLOCK OUT ALOT OF OUTSIDE NOISE, i live in NY so blocking out traffic,horns,and people screaming on the streets is essential, and these sets brings all of those obsructions down to super minimum volume. 100% RECOMMENDED.
p.s: if you are upgrading from those terrible ipod headphones you are in for one BIG improvement here, you will not believe the sound!!!
_________EDIT___________
i forgot to mention something really nice about these headphones, the CORD is perfect length and it comes off right at the top of the headphones' left earcup meaning that if you accidentally pull it (and it takes force to pull it off) it will disconnect and not break the actual cord which means that if you were to BREAK the chord you can simply REPLACE it with a new one without compromising the headphones!!!! i accidentally SAT on the plug and it broke off at the tip where it connects to my mp3, with any other headphone the whole thing would have been ruined but with THESE BOSE i just replaced the cord with a new one!......and good as new!!!! im on my 9th month with these babies and i havent had any problems, they are still sturdy as the first day i bought them and i take them with me everywhere, they have survived rain, snow, heat and super cold weather and still function fantastic and ear-cushions are still in excellent condition. HOPE THIS HELPS! BYE
-------EDIT2--------------
year 1 1/2, still sound amazing, the cushions are showing a bit of tear around the middle, but this is expected because of EXTREME heavy use, i take these EVERYWHERE and use them EVERYDAY, this hasn't compromised any part of the sound. I AM STILL EXTREMELY HAPPY WIHT THESE HEADPHONES. still recommended, i would buy them again.
------EDIT3---------------
2 years, more tear on the cushions no need to have them replaced yet though they still sound amazing!, top head band is also losing some of its nice cushion material because of heavy use and i rarely use the carrying case. these things still sound amazing, survived the winter storms and snow, had to replace the cable again, so $5 more dollars, i ordered 2 just in case. its to be noted that i use these things ALOT! everyday ! and still sound as good as new, they look worn but its not a problem for me, i might get the cushions replaced next year but i see no need for that yet. STILL AMAZING !!! would STILL buy them again.
p.s: if you are upgrading from those terrible ipod headphones you are in for one BIG improvement here, you will not believe the sound!!!
_________EDIT___________
i forgot to mention something really nice about these headphones, the CORD is perfect length and it comes off right at the top of the headphones' left earcup meaning that if you accidentally pull it (and it takes force to pull it off) it will disconnect and not break the actual cord which means that if you were to BREAK the chord you can simply REPLACE it with a new one without compromising the headphones!!!! i accidentally SAT on the plug and it broke off at the tip where it connects to my mp3, with any other headphone the whole thing would have been ruined but with THESE BOSE i just replaced the cord with a new one!......and good as new!!!! im on my 9th month with these babies and i havent had any problems, they are still sturdy as the first day i bought them and i take them with me everywhere, they have survived rain, snow, heat and super cold weather and still function fantastic and ear-cushions are still in excellent condition. HOPE THIS HELPS! BYE
-------EDIT2--------------
year 1 1/2, still sound amazing, the cushions are showing a bit of tear around the middle, but this is expected because of EXTREME heavy use, i take these EVERYWHERE and use them EVERYDAY, this hasn't compromised any part of the sound. I AM STILL EXTREMELY HAPPY WIHT THESE HEADPHONES. still recommended, i would buy them again.
------EDIT3---------------
2 years, more tear on the cushions no need to have them replaced yet though they still sound amazing!, top head band is also losing some of its nice cushion material because of heavy use and i rarely use the carrying case. these things still sound amazing, survived the winter storms and snow, had to replace the cable again, so $5 more dollars, i ordered 2 just in case. its to be noted that i use these things ALOT! everyday ! and still sound as good as new, they look worn but its not a problem for me, i might get the cushions replaced next year but i see no need for that yet. STILL AMAZING !!! would STILL buy them again.
on December 26, 2006
I just got these very recently after trying for 2 years to find the headphones of my dreams for both my audio system at home and my iPod.
These allow you to take off any bass booster eq and really hear what's going on. My previous headphones were pretty good, but just missed the range around female voices. These have NO such problems.
I am an audiophile and these would be considered on the "bright" rather than rich side, but it does very well in that. Hey, it's from Bose, so that's what you would expect, to some degree.
The sound is very accurate in that I could tell (for the first time) that a drummer was using a set of nylon brushes rather than metal. That's a bit esoteric, but it does give a description of how accurate these headphones are in that range.
I can not comment on durability yet as these are new to me. Bose does provide a semi-rigid case for them, so if you are good at putting things in their cases, it should be OK. If you just like to take your headphones off and let them drop, these are probably not your best choice.
For me, it was between the Triport AE (around the ear) and this one. To my ears, these OE's are clearly less muddy, especially in the mid to high freq range. They are occlusive enough so that I could go around vacuuming with my iPod without being at full volume. That's pretty not bad, especially for non-noise cancelling headphones.
If you realy can't tell the difference, I wouldn't spend the $180. If you can, these are certainly worth a listen.
The biggest problem now is that I might have to go back and re-rip my CD collection using a lossless format versus MP3. That's not a bad problem to have.
These allow you to take off any bass booster eq and really hear what's going on. My previous headphones were pretty good, but just missed the range around female voices. These have NO such problems.
I am an audiophile and these would be considered on the "bright" rather than rich side, but it does very well in that. Hey, it's from Bose, so that's what you would expect, to some degree.
The sound is very accurate in that I could tell (for the first time) that a drummer was using a set of nylon brushes rather than metal. That's a bit esoteric, but it does give a description of how accurate these headphones are in that range.
I can not comment on durability yet as these are new to me. Bose does provide a semi-rigid case for them, so if you are good at putting things in their cases, it should be OK. If you just like to take your headphones off and let them drop, these are probably not your best choice.
For me, it was between the Triport AE (around the ear) and this one. To my ears, these OE's are clearly less muddy, especially in the mid to high freq range. They are occlusive enough so that I could go around vacuuming with my iPod without being at full volume. That's pretty not bad, especially for non-noise cancelling headphones.
If you realy can't tell the difference, I wouldn't spend the $180. If you can, these are certainly worth a listen.
The biggest problem now is that I might have to go back and re-rip my CD collection using a lossless format versus MP3. That's not a bad problem to have.
on March 18, 2010
These are some of the most comfortable headphones I have ever used, and have superb sound quality. It blocks out a nice amount of sound - I have no problems listening to my music in the noisy subways and streets of Manhattan.
I can wear for an hour straight without my ears being sore. They do warm your ears up though, and can make them a bit sweaty and have the leather sticky effect when it's really warm outside. Works perfectly though when it's cold outside, since it doubles as an ear warmer.
I've had these headphones for about 9 months.
I can wear for an hour straight without my ears being sore. They do warm your ears up though, and can make them a bit sweaty and have the leather sticky effect when it's really warm outside. Works perfectly though when it's cold outside, since it doubles as an ear warmer.
I've had these headphones for about 9 months.
on October 27, 2006
I wanted to get the Bose QC3s for sometime now,[...] I just liked the supra-aural style better than the original Triport headphones. I was hoping that Bose would come out with a non-noise cancelling version of the QC3, and these are it! As soon as I learned that Bose had released these headphones, I quickly placed the order for them.
I got these last week and have been listening to music like crazy with them, both on my computer and on my iPod. These phones are not noise-cancelling models, but they still block out a noticeable amount of noise. You can wear these in a room and block out the noise of cars outside, the A/C, etc, while still being able to hear someone speak to you. I think these would work ok on a flight, but definitely not the best; that's what the QCs are designed for. I'm no audiophile and the only time I've ever tried Bose headphones before these were the demo Triports and QC2s at the Apple Store, so I can't say anymore about the sound than that it is terrific. It definitely is a balanced sound, with the bass at a perfect level and not too-overpowering. The trebles also come out pretty clear too. I was pleased with the sound over my old Sony EX-81 earbuds, which have a muddy and hissy sound compared to these. The bad thing about the sound quality is it really emphasizes how badly compressed some of my mp3s have become, which may not be a good thing if you don't have the original CDs for some of your music. I would give the sound quality five stars, but I warn you again that I'm no audiophile.
The fit of the headphones takes some getting used to, as Bose's design is quite unique. These phones are on-ear being that they are designed to be worn like those cheap headphones that you would get with your walkmans and portable CD players back in the days before mp3 players. However, Bose put cushioned leatherette pads which conform to the shape of your ear; when you put them on, you need to allow several seconds for the pads to adjust and form the perfect fit for you. Once this is done, you are all set to go. The phones do not press on you ears hard; I think they are very gentle and should be good for prolonged use without having to take them off once in awhile. I also wear eyeglasses, and the cups definitely don't press down hard on my glasses. I would give fit 4 1/2 stars.
These headphones come with a semi-hard zipper case similar to what is included with the QC models. The case is nicely padded on the inside and is custom-designed to hold the headphones when folded. There is a little mesh like pocket on the back of the case which can probably hold an iPod nano comfortably, though not a video iPod. Two cords are included: a short cord if you are plugging the phones into a wired remote control, like the iPod radio remote or similar; as well as a long standard sized cord. The cord attaches to only one cup and is detachable, so you don't have to worry about tangles. I would give the features and extras 5 stars.
And now the big con: build quality. I've read the reviews about other Bose headphones having poor-quality headbands which snapped after several months of use. Having tried the original Triports and the QC2s, I don't think Bose made much of an adjustment on strengthening the band of this model. Well, the band is definitely much stronger than the Triport, which has a thin, flimsly and skinny metal band wrapped in cloth, similar again to the cheap walkman headphones of the 90s. The on-ear's headband is very much like the QC3s: thicker than the original Triport, slightly more durable and covered in both leather and cloth. However, I still feel like after a few months these could break easily, just like people have experienced with the QC3s (and even QC2s). They do feel kind of stiff and I'm afraid already that if I pull the cups too far apart that the band would snap instantly and without warning. Therefore, I have to give the build quality 2 1/2 stars.
So my final verdict: I think these are a great design. They fit very well without any alterations or "custom fit kits" like those needed on premium earbuds. They have great sound, which I would expect for a pair of Bose phones. However, I'm not pleased with the build quality. I feel like I have to be patient and move slowly when handling the phones for fear of breaking them; not how I would act for the average pair of headphones. I am only in the 2nd week of my 30-day trial, so I'm going to see how this works out. But I am fearful of breaking a wonderful yet expensive and fragile piece. I'll update this review if I do decide to return this at the end of the 30 day trial. Overall, I'll give these headphones 4 stars. The sound and fit quality are impressive, and the bundled extras plentiful.[...]
---EDIT: 12/29/06---
Ok, so I am updating this much later than I should have. After testing the phones for the full 30-day period, I did indeed return these and ended up getting a pair QC2s on eBay. I was still uncomfortable with the fragility of the band, but that wasn't the only reason for the return. As I said, I wear glasses and discovered that after a few hours with these phones on, I did feel some discomfort in regards to my ear being pressed down on my glasses. I should say that I haven't gotten such discomfort with the QC2s, but that's my judgement; each person will have their own opinion on this matter. However, do not let me dissuade you from purchasing these. These definitely have amazing sound quality (again, from a non-audiophile's perspective) which improved as I broke-in the pair I used. I would not hesitate purchasing this as a gift.
I got these last week and have been listening to music like crazy with them, both on my computer and on my iPod. These phones are not noise-cancelling models, but they still block out a noticeable amount of noise. You can wear these in a room and block out the noise of cars outside, the A/C, etc, while still being able to hear someone speak to you. I think these would work ok on a flight, but definitely not the best; that's what the QCs are designed for. I'm no audiophile and the only time I've ever tried Bose headphones before these were the demo Triports and QC2s at the Apple Store, so I can't say anymore about the sound than that it is terrific. It definitely is a balanced sound, with the bass at a perfect level and not too-overpowering. The trebles also come out pretty clear too. I was pleased with the sound over my old Sony EX-81 earbuds, which have a muddy and hissy sound compared to these. The bad thing about the sound quality is it really emphasizes how badly compressed some of my mp3s have become, which may not be a good thing if you don't have the original CDs for some of your music. I would give the sound quality five stars, but I warn you again that I'm no audiophile.
The fit of the headphones takes some getting used to, as Bose's design is quite unique. These phones are on-ear being that they are designed to be worn like those cheap headphones that you would get with your walkmans and portable CD players back in the days before mp3 players. However, Bose put cushioned leatherette pads which conform to the shape of your ear; when you put them on, you need to allow several seconds for the pads to adjust and form the perfect fit for you. Once this is done, you are all set to go. The phones do not press on you ears hard; I think they are very gentle and should be good for prolonged use without having to take them off once in awhile. I also wear eyeglasses, and the cups definitely don't press down hard on my glasses. I would give fit 4 1/2 stars.
These headphones come with a semi-hard zipper case similar to what is included with the QC models. The case is nicely padded on the inside and is custom-designed to hold the headphones when folded. There is a little mesh like pocket on the back of the case which can probably hold an iPod nano comfortably, though not a video iPod. Two cords are included: a short cord if you are plugging the phones into a wired remote control, like the iPod radio remote or similar; as well as a long standard sized cord. The cord attaches to only one cup and is detachable, so you don't have to worry about tangles. I would give the features and extras 5 stars.
And now the big con: build quality. I've read the reviews about other Bose headphones having poor-quality headbands which snapped after several months of use. Having tried the original Triports and the QC2s, I don't think Bose made much of an adjustment on strengthening the band of this model. Well, the band is definitely much stronger than the Triport, which has a thin, flimsly and skinny metal band wrapped in cloth, similar again to the cheap walkman headphones of the 90s. The on-ear's headband is very much like the QC3s: thicker than the original Triport, slightly more durable and covered in both leather and cloth. However, I still feel like after a few months these could break easily, just like people have experienced with the QC3s (and even QC2s). They do feel kind of stiff and I'm afraid already that if I pull the cups too far apart that the band would snap instantly and without warning. Therefore, I have to give the build quality 2 1/2 stars.
So my final verdict: I think these are a great design. They fit very well without any alterations or "custom fit kits" like those needed on premium earbuds. They have great sound, which I would expect for a pair of Bose phones. However, I'm not pleased with the build quality. I feel like I have to be patient and move slowly when handling the phones for fear of breaking them; not how I would act for the average pair of headphones. I am only in the 2nd week of my 30-day trial, so I'm going to see how this works out. But I am fearful of breaking a wonderful yet expensive and fragile piece. I'll update this review if I do decide to return this at the end of the 30 day trial. Overall, I'll give these headphones 4 stars. The sound and fit quality are impressive, and the bundled extras plentiful.[...]
---EDIT: 12/29/06---
Ok, so I am updating this much later than I should have. After testing the phones for the full 30-day period, I did indeed return these and ended up getting a pair QC2s on eBay. I was still uncomfortable with the fragility of the band, but that wasn't the only reason for the return. As I said, I wear glasses and discovered that after a few hours with these phones on, I did feel some discomfort in regards to my ear being pressed down on my glasses. I should say that I haven't gotten such discomfort with the QC2s, but that's my judgement; each person will have their own opinion on this matter. However, do not let me dissuade you from purchasing these. These definitely have amazing sound quality (again, from a non-audiophile's perspective) which improved as I broke-in the pair I used. I would not hesitate purchasing this as a gift.
on October 17, 2011
Alrighty, I received this headphones as a gift a couple years ago from my girlfriend. Initially I took care of them but then we broke up so I treated them like crap. Now how would that little fact be relevant to the person reading this review right now? I have noticed a lot of reviews saying that these headphones are not durable and break easily, but I beg to differ. I have dropped these, kicked these, stepped on these, dragged these, and just completely abused them. I have not had any issues with these headphones functioning properly and I still use them every day. The ear pads are wearing out, the paint is peeling off and they are butt ugly but are still 100% functional. I have even twirled the ear pieces around several times to see if the wire would snap going into the headband but no, they still wont die. If I can treat them like an idiot and they still keep going anyone can maintain them. One side note however. You do need to break them in, so no extreme bass right from the get go. Also I believe that after major abuse with way to much bass the little drivers are on their way out. Still good enough for use on the subway for the commute to school every day. I hope this helps! Cheers.
on January 2, 2007
I just got the on-ear triport headphones. I've owned the Shure E3c ear buds for about a year and a half. They're both expensive and they're both great prodcuts with certain situations in which they're ideal.
The Shure's provide "noise blocking" in that they form-fit to the inside of your ear canal which virtually eliminates any sound entering your ear except sounds produced by the buds. The clarity of the E3c's is superior to that of any product I've sampled. The mid and high frequency sounds are near perfect. Shure provides 7 differnet size ear bud covers to guarantee the perfect fit for any user. (personal note: I have odd ears; one canal is larger than the other. Not a problem with the Shures since you're free to mix and match the covers). The only problem with the E3c is that there is virtually zero low end response.
The Bose, on the other hand, provide a great mix of sound at all frequencies. While the top end frequencies don't rival that of the E3c, they are more than capable of handling any reasonable amount of bass. (note: I don't listen to any rap, so don't get angry at me if you buy these and they don't thump enough for you). But, from heavy metal to jazz I find the Bose is able to handle the low end.
Both headphones immerse the listerner in the music. I give the bose the edge in the comfort department. Lets face it, having padded leather ON your ear is more comfy than having rubber jammed IN your ear.
Convenience? The E3c would have to get the edge. They're small and can be easily wrapped around an iPod or shoved in a pocket. I'd also be more likely to use them during a workout. If I'm sitting around the house relaxing I'll alwayse use the Bose.
So, consider your personal preferences. If you want comfort, bass, and relaxing listening sessions get the Bose. If you want noise reduction without batteries, crystal clear sound and don't mind sacrificing low end for portability go with the E3c.
One last note: I'd say I'll use the Bose for more than 75% of my listening. Either way you'll be making a solid purchase. Look at it this way: $300.00 for an iPod. Hundreds if not thousands on music. You've spent all that money on your music collection. What could be more imporatnt than having a high quality product to deliver that music to your ears? The only tough choice is picking the Shure or Bose. I'll leave that up to you.
The Shure's provide "noise blocking" in that they form-fit to the inside of your ear canal which virtually eliminates any sound entering your ear except sounds produced by the buds. The clarity of the E3c's is superior to that of any product I've sampled. The mid and high frequency sounds are near perfect. Shure provides 7 differnet size ear bud covers to guarantee the perfect fit for any user. (personal note: I have odd ears; one canal is larger than the other. Not a problem with the Shures since you're free to mix and match the covers). The only problem with the E3c is that there is virtually zero low end response.
The Bose, on the other hand, provide a great mix of sound at all frequencies. While the top end frequencies don't rival that of the E3c, they are more than capable of handling any reasonable amount of bass. (note: I don't listen to any rap, so don't get angry at me if you buy these and they don't thump enough for you). But, from heavy metal to jazz I find the Bose is able to handle the low end.
Both headphones immerse the listerner in the music. I give the bose the edge in the comfort department. Lets face it, having padded leather ON your ear is more comfy than having rubber jammed IN your ear.
Convenience? The E3c would have to get the edge. They're small and can be easily wrapped around an iPod or shoved in a pocket. I'd also be more likely to use them during a workout. If I'm sitting around the house relaxing I'll alwayse use the Bose.
So, consider your personal preferences. If you want comfort, bass, and relaxing listening sessions get the Bose. If you want noise reduction without batteries, crystal clear sound and don't mind sacrificing low end for portability go with the E3c.
One last note: I'd say I'll use the Bose for more than 75% of my listening. Either way you'll be making a solid purchase. Look at it this way: $300.00 for an iPod. Hundreds if not thousands on music. You've spent all that money on your music collection. What could be more imporatnt than having a high quality product to deliver that music to your ears? The only tough choice is picking the Shure or Bose. I'll leave that up to you.
