Bose Around-Ear Headphones review (silver)

The TriPorts aren't as warm and full-sounding as the QuietComfort 2s. But on Bobby Bare Jr's From the End of Your Leash CD, the TriPort set rolled out wonderfully deep bass with superior definition. No doubt, the QuietComfort 2s' richer, more full-bodied sound will appeal to many listeners, but we actually preferred the TriPorts' leaner tonal balance. The TriPort 'phones' full-size ear cups blocked external noise almost as well as noise-canceling headphones', yet we never experienced the canned or hollow claustrophobic quality we get with some sealed headphones. Stereo separation was especially wide and clearly defined. The sound was ever so slightly laid back, yet detail resolution was above average.

In short, if you think $300 is a lot of beans to spill on a pair of headphones, the older TriPort is definitely worth a look. Yes, the QuietComfort 2 set does a slightly better job at blocking out airplane engine noise, but the TriPort set is more comfortable, sounds good, and costs half the price.

Editors' note: Freelancer Steve Guttenberg contributed to this review.