Bose, a renowned name in the audio industry, has recently introduced a groundbreaking product that challenges the traditional earbud design. The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds offer a unique approach to open-ear audio, providing users with a new way to experience music while staying aware of their surroundings.
In this comprehensive review, we'll explore the features, performance, and potential drawbacks of these innovative earbuds.
Key Highlights:
- Unique open-ear design that allows users to stay aware of their surroundings
- Delivers high-quality, full-range audio despite the open design
- Supports Bose's Immersive Audio mode for a wider, more spatial sound
- Comfortable and secure fit, even during physical activities
- IPX4 water resistance rating for sweat and splash protection
- Long battery life of up to 8 hours per charge, with additional charges from the case
Pros:
- Sleek and comfortable design
- Great sound quality for an open-ear earbud
- Excellent button controls
- Minimizes sound leakage to keep your music private
- Secure and stable fit, even during workouts
- Long battery life and charging case
- Supports Bose's Immersive Audio for a more spatial listening experience
Cons:
- No noise cancellation or acoustic isolation
- Bass response may be underwhelming for some users
- Call quality could be better for the premium price
Design and Comfort
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds feature a distinctive clip-on design that attaches to the side of your ears instead of going inside them. This unique approach allows for a comfortable and secure fit, even during physical activities like cycling or running. The earbuds are also IPX4 water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
Audio Quality and Awareness
One of the primary advantages of the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds is their ability to provide a natural listening experience while maintaining environmental awareness. The open-ear design allows users to hear their surroundings clearly, making them ideal for activities where safety is a concern, such as running or cycling.
However, this design also means that external noise will be audible at full volume, which may be a drawback for those seeking complete immersion in their music.
Surprisingly Great Audio
Despite the open design, Bose engineers have managed to deliver surprisingly good audio quality. The Ultra Open Earbuds boast large 12mm drivers and Bose's signature immersive audio technology, creating a spacious soundstage that belies their open nature. Podcasts and audiobooks are crisp and clear, while music benefits from a well-balanced soundscape.
Connectivity and Controls
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds connect to your device via Bluetooth 5.3 and support AAC and SBC codecs. The earbuds feature physical controls on each earbud, allowing you to adjust the volume, play/pause music, and answer calls. The Bose Music app is available for iOS and Android, providing access to settings and firmware updates.
Battery Life and Charging
Bose claims that the Ultra Open Earbuds offer up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge. The included charging case provides additional charges, ensuring that you can enjoy your music throughout the day. The case features a USB-C charging port for convenient charging.
Open-Ear Design: Pros and Cons
The open-ear design is the Ultra Open Earbuds' defining characteristic. While it allows for complete situational awareness, perfect for runners or cyclists, some sound leakage is inevitable. This might be a concern for crowded environments or those seeking complete audio immersion.
Are the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Right for You?
These unique earbuds cater to a specific audience. If you prioritize safety while running outdoors or value staying connected to your surroundings while listening, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are strong contenders. However, audiophiles seeking complete noise cancellation or powerful bass response might be better served with traditional in-ear options.pen_spark
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Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Review FAQs:
1.How do the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds stay in place?
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds utilize a wraparound design that rests on the top and behind your ear, providing a secure and comfortable fit.
2. Do the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds leak sound?
Yes, due to the open-ear design, there will be some sound leakage at higher volumes. However, Bose has minimized this to a degree where it shouldn't disturb those around you in most everyday situations.
3. Can I use the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds for calls?
Yes, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds have integrated microphones for making and receiving calls. While call quality might not be on par with some closed-back headphones, it is sufficient for most situations.
4. How much do the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds cost?
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds retail for $299, placing them at the premium end of the earbud market.
5. What are some alternatives to the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds?
Alternatives include AfterShokz AeroPlay open-ear headphones or Sony's LinkBuds for a more traditional earbud design with some ambient sound passthrough.
