The Bose QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II) is a powerhouse of audio technology, delivering exceptional sound quality and a remarkable noise-cancelling experience. Whether you want to enjoy some immersive gaming, partake in professional video calls, or simply lose yourself in your favorite music, knowing how to connect your Bose QC35 II to your PC is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different methods to connect your Bose QC35 II to your PC, ensuring that you can set up your headphones quickly and efficiently. From Bluetooth connections to using an audio cable, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding the Bose QC35 II: A Brief Overview
Before diving into the connection process, let’s take a moment to understand what makes the Bose QC35 II so special.
The Features That Stand Out
The Bose QC35 II boasts an array of features that enhance user experience, including:
- Noise Cancellation: The QC35 II offers world-class noise cancellation, shielding you from unwanted background sounds.
- Wireless Connectivity: With easy Bluetooth pairing, connecting to your devices has never been smoother.
- Comfortable Design: Designed for prolonged use, these headphones are lightweight and come with plush ear cushions.
- Voice Assistants: With compatibility for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, controlling your audio experience is not only simple but also hands-free.
Understanding these features will give you a better appreciation of why connecting your QC35 II to a PC can elevate your experience.
Getting Started: Preparing for Connection
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
Essential Requirements
- PC with Bluetooth Capability: Modern PCs usually come with built-in Bluetooth. If yours does not, a USB Bluetooth adapter will be required.
- QC35 II Headphones Charged: Ensure your headphones have enough battery life to connect and operate without interruptions.
- Bluetooth Drivers Installed: Make sure your PC has the appropriate Bluetooth drivers installed and updated.
Now that you have your setup ready, let’s look at the steps to connect your Bose QC35 II to your PC.
Method 1: Connecting via Bluetooth
Using Bluetooth connectivity is often the preferred choice for many users due to its convenience. Let’s walk through the steps.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect via Bluetooth
- Turn On Your Bose QC35 II:
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Press the power button located on the right ear cup. The headphones will speak a tone to indicate they are powered on.
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Enable Pairing Mode:
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Press and hold the Bluetooth button on the left ear cup until you hear voice prompts indicating that the headphones are ready to pair.
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Open Bluetooth Settings on Your PC:
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On your PC, navigate to the “Settings” and then click on “Devices.” Choose “Bluetooth & other devices” from the left sidebar.
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Activate Bluetooth on Your PC:
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Turn on Bluetooth if it isn’t already enabled on your PC.
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Add Bluetooth or Other Device:
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Click on “Add Bluetooth or other device.” A new window will open where you will select “Bluetooth” to search for nearby devices.
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Select Your Bose QC35 II:
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Your PC will begin searching for devices. Once the QC35 II appears in the list, click on it to establish the connection.
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Confirm Connection:
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Follow any additional prompts that may appear. Once connected, you’ll hear a confirmation from the headphones.
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Testing the Connection:
- To ensure your connection works, play some audio on your PC. If you can hear the sound through your QC35 II, congratulations! You have successfully connected them.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connection Issues
Despite following the steps, you may encounter issues during the connection. Here are some tips:
- Ensure Headphones are Close to PC: Bluetooth has a limited range. Make sure your headphones are within a reasonable distance from your PC for optimal connectivity.
- Restart Both Devices: If you encounter problems, try restarting both your PC and the QC35 II.
- Ensure No Devices are Interfering: Disconnect any other Bluetooth devices that might be causing interference.
- Update Bluetooth Drivers: Check if your Bluetooth drivers on the PC are up to date. Outdated drivers can lead to connectivity issues.
Method 2: Connecting via Audio Cable
While Bluetooth is the go-to choice for many, there could be scenarios where a wired connection is preferred, such as dedicated gaming or professional audio work.
Connecting Using an Audio Cable
- Gather the Necessary Cable:
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You will need a 3.5mm audio cable. Most QC35 II headphones come with a compatible cable, but if not, any standard male-to-male 3.5mm aux cable will work.
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Locate the Audio Jack on Your PC:
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Find the headphone audio jack on your PC. It is typically green in color.
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Connect the Cable:
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Plug one end of the 3.5mm audio cable into the headphone jack on your PC and the other end into the QC35 II’s audio input jack, located on the left ear cup.
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Select the Audio Input Device (If Necessary):
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Your PC should automatically switch to the wired connection as the primary audio output. If it doesn’t, right-click the sound icon in the taskbar, select “Playback devices,” and set the QC35 II as the default device.
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Testing Your Audio:
- Play some media to test the connection. If you hear sound through the headphones, you’re connected!
Enhancing Your Sound Experience on PC
Now that you have your Bose QC35 II connected to your PC, you might want to enhance your audio experience further.
Using Bose Connect App
Consider installing the Bose Connect app on your smartphone or tablet. This app allows you to manage your headphone settings, access firmware updates, and switch between devices easily, providing a seamless listening experience.
Adjusting Sound Settings on PC
To make the most out of your Bose QC35 II on your PC, you can tweak the sound settings:
- Equalizer Settings:
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Access the audio settings on your PC and explore equalizer options if your sound card supports them. This allows you to customize your sound profile to suit your preferences.
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Check Volume Levels:
- Ensure the volume levels on both the PC and the headphones are well-adjusted for optimal performance without causing audio distortion.
Conclusion
Connecting your Bose QC35 II to your PC is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your audio experience. Whether you choose to connect via Bluetooth for optimal convenience or with an audio cable for high fidelity, the QC35 II is sure to impress.
By following the outlined methods, you should be able to seamlessly enjoy music, calls, and gaming sessions without missing a beat. With its sleek design and powerful performance, your Bose headphones are ready to elevate your PC experiences as you dive into the world of high-quality sound.
Enjoy your listening journey with Bose!
How do I connect my Bose QC35 II to my PC?
To connect your Bose QC35 II headphones to your PC, start by ensuring that your headphones are powered on and in pairing mode. You can do this by pressing and holding the power button until you hear a voice prompt indicating they are ready to connect. Next, go to your PC’s Bluetooth settings, usually found in the ‘Settings’ app under ‘Devices’ or ‘Bluetooth & other devices,’ and turn on Bluetooth if it isn’t enabled already.
Once Bluetooth is on, click on ‘Add Bluetooth or other device’ and select ‘Bluetooth’ from the options. Your PC will start scanning for available devices. When the Bose QC35 II appears on the list, click on it, and your PC should establish a connection. After successful pairing, you’ll hear a confirmation voice prompt in your headphones.
What if my PC does not recognize my Bose QC35 II?
If your PC does not recognize your Bose QC35 II headphones, first ensure that they are in pairing mode. Sometimes, the device can fail to appear due to not being in the right mode. Also, check that your PC’s Bluetooth is functioning properly, as it could be disabled or have connectivity issues. Restarting the Bluetooth service on your PC or updating the Bluetooth drivers may also help.
Another reason for recognition issues could be interference from other Bluetooth devices. Make sure there are no other active Bluetooth connections or devices nearby that could cause interference. You can also try resetting the QC35 II headphones by holding the power button for 10 seconds until you hear a voice prompt. After resetting, attempt the pairing process again.
Can I use my Bose QC35 II with a wired connection on my PC?
Yes, you can connect your Bose QC35 II headphones to your PC using a wired connection. To do this, locate the headphone jack on your headphones and use the included audio cable. Plug one end of the cable into the headphones and connect the other end to the audio output jack on your PC, typically a 3.5mm headphone jack.
After plugging in the cable, your PC should automatically recognize the wired connection. Ensure your PC’s audio output settings are configured to use the connected headphones. You may need to adjust the audio settings in the sound control panel to select the Bose QC35 II as the output device if it doesn’t switch automatically.
How can I change the default audio device on my PC to Bose QC35 II?
To set the Bose QC35 II as the default audio device on your PC, right-click on the sound icon in the taskbar. From the context menu, select ‘Open Sound settings’ or ‘Playback devices.’ In the sound settings menu, you should see a list of available audio devices under ‘Output.’ Locate your Bose QC35 II headphones on that list.
Once you find them, click on the headphones, and then click the ‘Set Default’ button. This will establish them as your main output device, ensuring that all audio playback will now route through the Bose QC35 II. After setting the default, test the audio to confirm that it’s coming through the headphones.
Can I use the microphone on my Bose QC35 II while connected to my PC?
Yes, you can use the microphone on your Bose QC35 II while connected to your PC, provided that you are connected via Bluetooth and your PC recognizes the headphones as a headset. When the Bose QC35 II is connected, it should appear as a communication device in your sound settings.
To ensure that the microphone is working, go to the sound settings on your PC, similar to changing default audio devices. Look for the ‘Input’ section and select your Bose QC35 II from the list of available microphones. You can also perform a test by speaking into the microphone and checking the input level for response.
Are there any specific software requirements to connect Bose QC35 II to PC?
Connecting your Bose QC35 II to a PC typically does not require any special software beyond the standard Bluetooth drivers that come with your operating system. Most Windows and macOS systems have built-in Bluetooth support compatible with the headphones. However, it may be a good idea to ensure that your system is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.
If you’re looking to access advanced features such as firmware updates or personalized settings for your Bose QC35 II, you may want to download the Bose Connect app. The app is available for both Windows and macOS and provides additional functionalities, such as managing Bluetooth connections, EQ settings, and checking battery status.
Why is there a delay in audio when using my Bose QC35 II with PC?
Audio delay while using Bose QC35 II headphones with your PC can occur due to several factors, primarily related to Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth audio can introduce latency, which varies depending on the quality of the Bluetooth connection, the codecs supported by both the headphones and the PC, and any additional software processing that might be in use. If you experience significant lag, it may help to switch to a wired connection.
Additionally, you should check for any background applications that might be consuming system resources or causing input/output delays. Updating your Bluetooth drivers can also reduce latency issues. If you continue to experience a delay, use the Bose Connect app to see if there are firmware updates available that may improve performance.
Why is my audio quality poor when using Bose QC35 II on PC?
Poor audio quality when using your Bose QC35 II headphones with your PC can stem from several factors, including Bluetooth connection quality and codec support. If your PC is using a low-quality Bluetooth codec, this can directly impact audio clarity and overall sound quality. To improve this, ensure that your PC supports higher-quality codecs like aptX, if available, and prioritize connection stability.
Another factor could be the audio settings on your PC. Allow the system to detect the headphones as high-definition audio devices and confirm that your audio source is of high quality. Check your sound settings and ensure enhancements are turned off, as these can sometimes degrade audio quality.