Bose Brings Back Wired Earbuds With USB-C And Noise Cancelling
Bose is returning to wired earphones with a new pair that connects directly to USB-C phones, tablets and computers. The Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds combine the simplicity and low delay of a cable with active noise cancelling normally associated with wireless models.
They cost £99 and do not contain a rechargeable battery. Instead, the connected device supplies the small amount of power needed for digital audio processing and noise cancellation.
Quick Reference
- What it is: USB-C wired earbuds with active noise cancelling.
- Price: £99, €99 or $99.
- Connection: USB-C using the USB Audio Class 2 standard.
- Listening modes: Quiet, Aware and ANC Off.
- Best for: Phones, tablets and computers with compatible USB-C audio output.
Why Wired Earbuds Are Back
A wired connection does not need Bluetooth pairing and usually produces much less delay between picture and sound. That is useful for games, video editing and watching films, as well as ordinary music listening.
USB-C is replacing the old 3.5mm headphone socket on many devices, so these earbuds include their own digital audio electronics. Buyers should still check that their particular phone, tablet or computer supports audio through its USB-C port.
No Bluetooth And No Battery
There is no Bluetooth radio and no internal battery to charge. The earbuds switch on when connected and draw power from the source device. That removes battery ageing from the earbuds themselves, although noise cancelling and digital processing will use a small amount of the phone or laptop’s battery.
The cable is 1.28 metres long and includes an in-line remote with physical buttons for volume, playback, calls and listening modes.
Noise Cancelling Without Charging
Four microphones are used for active noise cancellation, with two on each earbud. Quiet mode reduces outside sound, Aware mode allows more of the surroundings through, and ANC Off provides straightforward wired listening without active cancellation.
Active noise cancelling listens to external sound and creates a carefully controlled opposing signal. It is normally most effective against steady low-frequency noise such as engines and ventilation rather than every sudden sound.
Sound And Low Latency
Bose’s SoundDesign digital signal processing handles audio inside the earbuds. The USB Audio Class 2 connection can accept different input rates, while playback is fixed at 24-bit/48kHz. That is more than sufficient for the full frequency range of human hearing and should not be confused with a guarantee of better mastering or recording quality.
The direct digital connection also provides low-latency performance, keeping speech and action more closely synchronised than many wireless links.
Fit Controls And Water Resistance
Small, medium and large silicone eartips are included, together with medium and large stability wings. The pieces can be mixed to find a secure fit, and the earbuds can also be used without wings if preferred.
An IPX4 rating means protection against splashes from any direction, not full waterproofing. A dedicated microphone on the rear of the remote handles calls, and a zipped carrying case is supplied.
Price And Availability
The Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds cost £99, €99, $99 or AU$170. They are available to preorder from Bose and are due to ship from 15 October in Black, White Smoke and limited-edition Dewdrop Mint
What The Terms Mean
USB Audio Class 2: A standard for sending digital audio through USB. DSP: Digital signal processing used to adjust or control audio. Latency: The delay between an action and its sound. IPX4: Resistance to splashing water, but not submersion.
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