I purchased a pair of the latest Bose QC phones for a friend for Christmas... I almost purchased a second pair for myself but have not done so yet (and probably will not).
I have an old pair of Bose QC25's from 2014 (wired only) and mainly use them for travel, but I also use them while working out.
I was excited to see how much improvement there may be with the new 2024 QC's vs the old 2014 model. I was somewhat disappointed.
After listening to some familiar tracks through familiar gear, IMHO, the old QC 25's sound better overall... more punchy, more detailed, slightly more clarity and overall a better balanced sound. So I guess newer isn't always better.
Perhaps it's just because I'm more familiar with the sound signature of the older model, or perhaps the new phones need some time to burn in? but it seems that the new model definitely requires EQ adjustment using the app. (which I didn't try)... but the old model doesn't need an app. as they sound great with all genres without messing with the EQ.
I thought that perhaps the Bluetooth connection might be making the difference in sound quality and so I also listened to the new model wired... the sound was basically the same whether wired or using the Bluetooth connection.
I also like the fact that the old 25's use a AAA battery and don't require charging, and Bose thoughtfully created a space in the case to carry a fresh battery along!
I have an old pair of Bose QC25's from 2014 (wired only) and mainly use them for travel, but I also use them while working out.
I was excited to see how much improvement there may be with the new 2024 QC's vs the old 2014 model. I was somewhat disappointed.
After listening to some familiar tracks through familiar gear, IMHO, the old QC 25's sound better overall... more punchy, more detailed, slightly more clarity and overall a better balanced sound. So I guess newer isn't always better.
Perhaps it's just because I'm more familiar with the sound signature of the older model, or perhaps the new phones need some time to burn in? but it seems that the new model definitely requires EQ adjustment using the app. (which I didn't try)... but the old model doesn't need an app. as they sound great with all genres without messing with the EQ.
I thought that perhaps the Bluetooth connection might be making the difference in sound quality and so I also listened to the new model wired... the sound was basically the same whether wired or using the Bluetooth connection.
I also like the fact that the old 25's use a AAA battery and don't require charging, and Bose thoughtfully created a space in the case to carry a fresh battery along!