As a technology enthusiast and audiophile, there’s nothing quite like finding the perfect pair of headphones to elevate your listening experience. Today, I am thrilled to share my review of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, a set of headphones that I believe truly deserves the spotlight. With their superb noise-cancellation capabilities and high-quality audio performance, these headphones have become a staple for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into the features, design, and performance of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, as well as compare them to other top contenders in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or simply in search of a reliable pair of headphones to accompany you on your daily commute, this review aims to provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision. So, grab your favorite playlist and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Bose QuietComfort 35 II product information
History
The history of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II can be traced back to its roots at Bose Corporation, a company renowned for its dedication to research and development in the field of audio technology. Founded in 1964 by Dr. Amar G. Bose, an MIT graduate and professor, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio engineering and introduced groundbreaking products to the market.
The journey to create the Bose QuietComfort 35 II began with the introduction of the original QuietComfort series in 2000. The first iteration, the QuietComfort Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones, was a game-changer in the industry, as it offered users an unprecedented level of noise cancellation in a portable form factor. The success of this product prompted Bose to continue refining and expanding the QuietComfort lineup.
The Bose QuietComfort 35, the direct predecessor to the QuietComfort 35 II, was introduced in 2016. This model featured significant improvements over previous generations, including wireless Bluetooth connectivity and an enhanced noise cancellation algorithm. It quickly became a popular choice among audiophiles and casual listeners alike for its comfort, performance, and portability.
In 2017, Bose unveiled the QuietComfort 35 II, building upon the solid foundation of its predecessor. This updated version introduced key features such as Google Assistant integration and customizable noise-cancellation levels, providing users with even greater control over their listening experience. These upgrades, coupled with the already impressive audio quality and comfort of the original QuietComfort 35, solidified the QuietComfort 35 II’s position as a top-tier choice for headphone enthusiasts.
Today, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in audio technology. The culmination of years of research, development, and user feedback, these headphones continue to captivate users with their exceptional performance and comfort.
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2017 |
| Company | Bose Corporation |
| Official Website | www.bose.com |
| Fit Type | Over-ear |
| Item Dimensions | 3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches (HxWxD) |
| Item Weight | 8.3 ounces (235 grams) |
| Special Features | Google Assistant, Customizable ANC |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 32 ohms |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| ANC Modes | High, Low, Off |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours (wireless with ANC) |
| Charging Time | Approximately 2.25 hours |
| Quick Charging | 15 minutes for 2.5 hours of playback |
| Controls | On-ear buttons, Bose Connect app |
| Price | $349.95 (at the time of release) |
What is included in the delivery set?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones come with a thoughtfully designed delivery set to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy your listening experience right out of the box. The delivery set includes:
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones: The main product, featuring advanced noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Carrying Case: A protective hardshell case to keep your headphones safe and secure during storage or travel.
- USB Charging Cable: A cable to charge the headphones via a USB power source, such as a laptop, power bank, or wall adapter.
- Audio Cable: A 3.5mm auxiliary cable to use the headphones in wired mode when needed, such as during low battery or in situations where wireless connection is not possible.
- Airline Adapter: An adapter to connect the headphones to airplane entertainment systems, ensuring compatibility with various types of audio jacks.
- Quick Start Guide: A concise guide to help you get started with your new headphones, covering essential information on setup, usage, and maintenance.
- Safety and Warranty Information: Documentation detailing safety guidelines and warranty terms for your headphones.
What about design, materials, assembly?
The design of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones prioritizes comfort and usability, making them suitable for extended periods of wear. They feature a sleek, modern aesthetic that is both visually appealing and functional. Here’s a closer look at the design, materials, and assembly of these headphones:
- Design: The headphones feature an over-ear design with a closed-back architecture. This ensures a snug fit and helps to isolate external sounds effectively. The adjustable headband and swiveling ear cups allow for a customized fit, accommodating a wide range of head shapes and sizes.
- Materials: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are constructed using high-quality materials that strike a balance between durability, comfort, and weight. The headband is made from a combination of glass-filled nylon and stainless steel, providing both flexibility and strength. The ear cups are crafted from impact-resistant materials, while the ear cushions are made of plush synthetic protein leather filled with soft foam. These materials not only provide excellent comfort but also contribute to the headphones’ lightweight design.
- Assembly: The build quality of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones is top-notch, with meticulous attention to detail. The assembly process ensures that all components fit together seamlessly, resulting in a product that feels robust and reliable. The joints and hinges are smooth and sturdy, allowing for easy adjustments without compromising on durability.
Overall, the design, materials, and assembly of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones showcase the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality product that offers exceptional comfort, performance, and durability.
What about ergonomics and usability Bose QuietComfort 35 II?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones excel in ergonomics and usability, making them a popular choice for users who prioritize comfort and convenience. Here’s an overview of the key ergonomic and usability features of these headphones:
- Comfort: The headphones are designed with comfort in mind, featuring plush ear cushions and a padded headband. The soft foam in the ear cushions conforms to the shape of your ears, providing a secure yet comfortable fit. The adjustable headband ensures that the headphones can accommodate a wide range of head sizes and shapes.
- Lightweight design: Weighing in at just 8.3 ounces (235 grams), the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are lightweight and easy to wear for extended periods. The use of high-quality, lightweight materials reduces strain on your head and neck, minimizing the risk of discomfort or fatigue.
- Intuitive controls: The headphones feature easy-to-use on-ear controls for adjusting volume, skipping tracks, and managing phone calls. The buttons are well-placed and tactile, making it simple to control your audio experience without having to reach for your device. Additionally, the headphones offer voice assistant integration, allowing you to access Google Assistant or Siri directly through the headphones for hands-free control.
- Foldable design: The ear cups of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones can swivel and fold flat, making them compact and easy to store in the provided carrying case. This foldable design is perfect for travelers or commuters who need to save space in their bags.
- Customizable noise cancellation: The headphones feature adjustable noise-cancellation levels, allowing you to choose between high, low, or off settings. This customizable feature ensures you can achieve the perfect balance between blocking out external noise and staying aware of your surroundings.
- Easy pairing: The Bluetooth connectivity of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones ensures hassle-free pairing with your devices. The headphones also remember previously paired devices, making it easy to switch between them without needing to re-pair each time.
In summary, the ergonomics and usability of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are exceptional, offering a comfortable and convenient listening experience for users in various environments and situations.
What about connection, control and software?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones offer seamless connection, easy control, and useful software integration to enhance your listening experience. Here’s a closer look at these aspects:
- Connection: The headphones are equipped with Bluetooth 4.1 technology, allowing for wireless connection to a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The pairing process is straightforward, and the headphones can remember up to eight previously paired devices for easy switching. Additionally, the headphones come with a 3.5mm audio cable for wired connections, useful when the battery is low or when using devices without Bluetooth capabilities.
- Control: On-ear controls provide users with the ability to manage volume, skip tracks, pause or play music, and answer or end phone calls with ease. The buttons are well-placed, tactile, and responsive, ensuring you can control your audio experience without fumbling. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones also feature voice assistant integration, allowing users to access Google Assistant or Siri for hands-free control of their devices.
- Software: The Bose Connect app, available for iOS and Android devices, offers additional functionality and customization options for your QuietComfort 35 II headphones. With the app, you can:
- Adjust noise cancellation levels (high, low, or off)
- Manage paired devices and switch between them
- Customize the headphones’ action button to control noise cancellation or access your voice assistant
- Update the headphones’ firmware to ensure optimal performance
- Access user guides and troubleshooting tips
The app is user-friendly and provides a convenient way to tailor your headphones to your preferences and keep them up to date.
In conclusion, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones deliver a seamless connection, intuitive control, and beneficial software integration that elevates the overall user experience. These features, combined with the headphones’ exceptional audio quality and comfort, make the QuietComfort 35 II a top choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles.
How’s the sound quality?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones offer impressive sound quality that appeals to a wide range of listeners. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the sound quality across different aspects:
- Bass: The bass response in the QuietComfort 35 II is well-balanced and controlled. It delivers a satisfying low-end without overpowering the midrange and treble frequencies. The bass is tight and punchy, providing ample depth for bass-heavy genres such as electronic, hip-hop, and pop.
- Midrange: The midrange performance of the headphones is detailed and clear, ensuring vocals and instruments are well-represented. The midrange is smooth and natural, with no noticeable peaks or dips that could cause harshness or muddiness. This balanced midrange makes the QuietComfort 35 II suitable for a wide variety of music genres, including rock, jazz, and classical.
- Treble: The treble frequencies in the QuietComfort 35 II are crisp and well-defined, offering good detail and clarity. The high-end is smooth and non-fatiguing, allowing users to listen for extended periods without experiencing listening fatigue or discomfort. The treble performance complements the overall sound signature, resulting in a pleasant and enjoyable listening experience.
- Soundstage: The soundstage of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is moderately wide, providing a sense of space and depth in your audio. While the closed-back design may not offer the same expansive soundstage as open-back headphones, the QuietComfort 35 II still manages to deliver an engaging and immersive audio experience.
- Imaging: The imaging and instrument separation in the QuietComfort 35 II are quite good, allowing listeners to pinpoint the position of various instruments and vocals within the audio mix. This level of precision contributes to the overall enjoyment of the listening experience.
- Noise Cancellation: The active noise cancellation (ANC) technology in the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is top-notch. The headphones effectively reduce a wide range of external noises, including low-frequency rumbles and high-frequency chatter. With adjustable ANC settings, users can customize the level of noise cancellation to their preferences and environment, making these headphones ideal for use in various situations, such as busy commutes or quiet offices.
In summary, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones deliver exceptional sound quality across various aspects, making them suitable for users with diverse music tastes and preferences. The combination of balanced bass, midrange, and treble frequencies, along with effective noise cancellation, ensures an enjoyable and immersive listening experience.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones showcase impressive energy efficiency and battery life, making them suitable for extended use and on-the-go listening. Here’s an overview of their battery performance:
- Battery Life: The headphones offer up to 20 hours of wireless playback with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled, ensuring you can enjoy your music throughout the day without worrying about the battery running out. If you decide to use the headphones in wired mode with ANC enabled, the battery life extends to an impressive 40 hours.
- Charging Time: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones require approximately 2.25 hours to fully charge, which is relatively quick considering the long playback time they offer. This quick charging time ensures that your headphones are ready for use when you need them.
- Quick Charging: The headphones feature a quick charging function, where just 15 minutes of charging provides approximately 2.5 hours of playback. This is particularly useful when you’re short on time and need a quick battery boost for your headphones.
- Battery Conservation: The headphones come with an automatic power-off feature that helps conserve battery life when not in use. If the headphones are disconnected from a device or not used for 15 minutes, they will automatically power off. This feature ensures that the battery life is preserved, even if you forget to manually turn the headphones off.
In conclusion, the energy efficiency and battery life of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are remarkable, making them an excellent choice for users who require long-lasting, reliable headphones for daily use or travel. The quick charging feature and battery conservation functions further enhance the convenience and usability of these headphones.
Comparison & Review
What are similar headphones in features and cost?
Two similar headphones in features and cost to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II are the Sony WH-1000XM3 and the Sennheiser PXC 550-II. Both of these headphones offer comparable performance, active noise cancellation, and are in a similar price range. Here’s a brief overview of each:
- Sony WH-1000XM3:
- Price: At the time of its release, the Sony WH-1000XM3 was priced at around $349.99, similar to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.
- Features: The Sony WH-1000XM3 offers adaptive noise cancellation, touch controls, and voice assistant integration. It also has customizable sound profiles through the Sony Headphones Connect app.
- Sound Quality: The WH-1000XM3 delivers excellent sound quality with a slightly more emphasized bass response compared to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. The overall sound signature is well-balanced, making it suitable for various music genres.
- Battery Life: The battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM3 is impressive, offering up to 30 hours of wireless playback with noise cancellation enabled.
- Sennheiser PXC 550-II:
- Price: The Sennheiser PXC 550-II was priced at around $349.95 at the time of its release, similar to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.
- Features: The PXC 550-II offers adaptive noise cancellation, touch controls, and voice assistant integration. It also features a customizable sound experience through the Sennheiser Smart Control app.
- Sound Quality: The PXC 550-II provides a balanced sound signature with a slightly brighter treble response compared to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. The sound quality is detailed and accurate, making it suitable for various music genres.
- Battery Life: The battery life of the Sennheiser PXC 550-II is also impressive, offering up to 20 hours of wireless playback with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 30 hours in wired mode.
Both the Sony WH-1000XM3 and the Sennheiser PXC 550-II are excellent alternatives to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, providing comparable features, sound quality, and price points. Your choice between these options may come down to personal preferences in terms of sound signature, design, and brand loyalty.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Sony WH-1000XM3 | Sennheiser PXC 550-II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
| Company | Bose | Sony | Sennheiser |
| Official Website | www.bose.com | www.sony.com | www.sennheiser.com |
| Fit Type | Over-ear, closed-back | Over-ear, closed-back | Over-ear, closed-back |
| Item Dimensions | 3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches | 10.4 x 7.3 x 2.9 inches | 5.3 x 2.4 x 6.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 8.3 ounces (235 grams) | 9 ounces (254 grams) | 7.8 ounces (222 grams) |
| Special Features | ANC, Bluetooth, Voice Assistant | ANC, Bluetooth, Touch Controls | ANC, Bluetooth, Touch Controls |
| Driver Size | 40mm | 40mm | Unknown |
| Frequency Response | Unknown | 4 Hz – 40,000 Hz | 17 Hz – 23,000 Hz |
| Impedance | Unknown | 47 ohms (wired) | Unknown |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.1 | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | 33 feet (10 meters) | 33 feet (10 meters) | 33 feet (10 meters) |
| ANC Modes | Adjustable (High, Low, Off) | Adaptive | Adaptive |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Low Latency |
| Battery Life | 20 hours (wireless, ANC on) | 30 hours (wireless, ANC on) | 20 hours (wireless, ANC on) |
| Charging Time | 2.25 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Quick Charging | 15 mins for 2.5 hours playback | 10 mins for 5 hours playback | N/A |
| Controls | Button controls | Touch controls | Touch controls |
| Price (at release) | $349.95 | $349.99 | $349.95 |
How do Bose QuietComfort 35 II users describe their experience with these headphones?
Bose QuietComfort 35 II users generally describe their experience with these headphones in positive terms. Here are some common aspects users often highlight:
- Comfort: Many users praise the comfort of the headphones, mentioning the soft ear cushions and padded headband, which make them suitable for long listening sessions without causing discomfort.
- Noise Cancellation: Users are often impressed with the effectiveness of the active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. They appreciate the adjustable ANC levels, which allow them to find the perfect balance between blocking out external noise and staying aware of their surroundings.
- Sound Quality: Users typically enjoy the balanced sound signature, which delivers clear and detailed audio across various music genres. Although some users may prefer a more emphasized bass response or a brighter treble, most find the overall sound quality to be pleasing and satisfying.
- Battery Life: The long battery life and quick charging capabilities are well-received by users, who appreciate not having to constantly charge their headphones and being able to get a significant amount of playback time with just a short charging session.
- Build Quality and Design: Users often describe the build quality as solid and durable, with a sleek and modern design. The foldable design and included carrying case are also appreciated for their convenience during travel or storage.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Users generally find the Bluetooth connectivity to be reliable and easy to set up, with the ability to connect to multiple devices and switch between them effortlessly.
- Bose Connect App: While not all users utilize the app, those who do appreciate the added customization options and the ability to update their headphones’ firmware for optimal performance.
However, some users may express concerns about the price, wishing for a lower cost or additional features to justify the investment. Overall, the majority of Bose QuietComfort 35 II users describe their experience with these headphones positively, appreciating the comfort, noise cancellation, sound quality, and battery life they offer.
Pros and cons of headphones Bose QuietComfort 35 II
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Exceptional comfort | Relatively high price |
| Effective adjustable noise cancellation | Sound signature may not suit all preferences |
| Balanced and detailed sound quality | Bluetooth 4.1 may be considered outdated compared to newer headphones |
| Long battery life | Limited codec support (no aptX or LDAC) |
| Quick charging capabilities | |
| Reliable Bluetooth connectivity | |
| Solid build quality and design | |
| Foldable design for easy portability | |
| Bose Connect app for customization |
Conclusions
In summary, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones offer a compelling combination of comfort, effective adjustable noise cancellation, balanced sound quality, and long battery life. These headphones are praised for their solid build quality, sleek design, and reliable Bluetooth connectivity. While some users may find the price to be on the higher side and the sound signature not to their exact preferences, the overall experience provided by the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones is highly satisfactory.
These headphones are a great choice for users seeking a comfortable, high-quality listening experience, whether for daily use or travel. Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as limited codec support and an older Bluetooth version, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones stand out as an excellent option in the competitive market of wireless noise-canceling headphones.
Our Review for Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Bose QuietComfort 35 II. Basic questions, basic answers
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What is the difference between Bose 35 and 45?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Bose QuietComfort 45 are both noise-canceling headphones from Bose, but the QuietComfort 45 is an upgraded version with several improvements over its predecessor. Here are some of the key differences between the two models:
1. Design: While both headphones share a similar design language, the QuietComfort 45 features a slightly more refined design, with a cleaner look and a more streamlined headband.
2. Noise Cancellation: The QuietComfort 45 boasts an improved noise-canceling technology called Aware Mode. This mode allows users to hear their surroundings without having to pause their music or take off their headphones, offering a more seamless listening experience compared to the QuietComfort 35 II.
3. Sound Quality: The QuietComfort 45 has been engineered for better audio performance, delivering a more natural and balanced sound signature. The improvements in audio quality provide a more immersive listening experience compared to the QuietComfort 35 II.
4. Battery Life: Both headphones have similar battery life, offering up to 20 hours of wireless playback with noise cancellation enabled. However, the QuietComfort 45 has a quicker charging time, taking only 2 hours to fully charge, compared to the 2.25 hours required for the QuietComfort 35 II.
5. Bluetooth: The QuietComfort 45 comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.1, providing better wireless performance, improved range, and more stable connections compared to the Bluetooth 4.1 in the QuietComfort 35 II.
6. USB-C Charging: The QuietComfort 45 has switched to USB-C for charging, in line with the industry trend, making it more convenient and future-proof compared to the micro-USB charging port found in the QuietComfort 35 II.Overall, the Bose QuietComfort 45 is an improved version of the QuietComfort 35 II, with enhancements in design, noise cancellation, sound quality, and connectivity. If you’re looking for the latest and most advanced features, the QuietComfort 45 is the better choice. However, the QuietComfort 35 II remains an excellent option for those seeking comfort and effective noise cancellation at a potentially lower price point.
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What is the difference between QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones and QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones II?
The primary difference between the Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35) wireless headphones and the Bose QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II) wireless headphones is the addition of an Action Button on the left earcup of the QC35 II. This button is not present on the original QC35.
The Action Button on the QC35 II allows users to access their preferred voice assistant (Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa) or control the active noise cancellation settings directly from the headphones. This added functionality enables users to interact with their voice assistant and customize the noise cancellation experience without needing to use their connected device.
In terms of design, sound quality, battery life, and other features, both the original QC35 and QC35 II are nearly identical. They both offer excellent comfort, effective noise cancellation, and balanced sound quality. If you’re looking for voice assistant integration and adjustable noise cancellation settings, the QC35 II is the better choice, while the original QC35 remains a great option for those who don’t prioritize these features.
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Which headphones are better, Bose Quietcomfort 35 II or Grado GW100?
Both Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Grado GW100 are excellent headphones, but they cater to different preferences and use cases. Here is a comparison of their features to help you decide which one is better for your needs:
– Bose QuietComfort 35 II:
– Type: Over-ear, closed-back
– Noise cancellation: Active noise cancellation (ANC) technology
– Sound signature: Balanced and natural sound, with an emphasis on bass and treble
– Comfort: Lightweight and well-padded, with a comfortable headband and soft ear cushions
– Battery life: Up to 20 hours with ANC on, up to 40 hours with ANC off
– Wireless: Bluetooth connectivity
Additional features: Built-in voice assistant (Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa), customizable noise cancellation levels, multipoint pairingGrado GW100:
– Type: On-ear, open-back
– Noise cancellation: No active noise cancellation
– Sound signature: Open, detailed, and dynamic sound with an emphasis on midrange and treble
– Comfort: Lightweight, with foam ear cushions that rest on the ears
– Battery life: Up to 15 hours
– Wireless: Bluetooth connectivity
Additional features: Unique open-back design for a more spacious soundstage and natural listening experience, but with potential sound leakageIn summary, if you prioritize active noise cancellation, a more comfortable fit, and longer battery life, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer an open-back design that offers a more spacious soundstage and natural listening experience, the Grado GW100 would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the Grado GW100 may not be ideal for noisy environments or situations where sound leakage could be an issue.
Last Updated on November 5, 2023
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5 comments
[…] Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones, another standout in our “Top 3 Over-Ear Headphones of 2023,” have earned […]
I recently got the Bose QC35 II for my long-haul flights, and I must say they’re a game-changer! The comfort and battery life make those long trips much more enjoyable.
Great review, but I’m more of a bass lover. I wish the QC35 II had a bit more oomph in the low end. Otherwise, they’re pretty solid headphones.
I love my QC35 II headphones! They’ve been my go-to for daily commutes and working from home. The noise cancellation helps me stay focused in any environment.
Fantastic review! I’ve been using the QC35 II for over a year now, and I couldn’t agree more with your assessment. The comfort and noise cancellation are truly unmatched.