Bose QC20 Headphones Manual

The Bose QC20 headphones are in-ear noise-cancelling headphones featuring Bose Active EQ and TriPort technology for balanced audio performance, an inline remote and microphone for calls and music control, Aware Mode to hear your surroundings, and a rechargeable battery for up to 16 hours of use. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, care, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: In-ear headphones with StayHear+ tips, Control Module with buttons and microphone, Battery Pack with status LED, Charging Cable, and Carrying Case.

Feature	Description
Active Noise Cancellation	Electronically reduces unwanted ambient noise
Aware Mode	Button to temporarily hear your surroundings
Inline Remote & Mic	Control music, take calls, activate voice assistant
Bose Active EQ & TriPort	Delivers balanced audio at any volume
StayHear+ Tips	Secure and comfortable fit in three sizes
Rechargeable Battery	Provides up to 16 hours of use per charge
Battery Status LED	Indicates charge level and charging status
Carrying Case	For storage and protection

What's in the Box

1. Bose QC20 headphones
2. Three pairs of StayHear+ tips (S, M, L)
3. Rechargeable battery pack
4. USB charging cable
5. Carrying case
6. Airline adapter
7. User manual

NOTE: Inspect all contents upon unboxing.

Getting Started

Power on headphones and prepare for first use.

1. Charge the battery: Connect USB cable to battery pack and power source. LED blinks amber while charging, turns off when full.
2. Select ear tips: Try different sizes for best fit and noise isolation.
3. Connect to device: Plug audio jack into your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
4. Power on: Slide power switch on battery pack to ON. Green LED indicates power.

CAUTION! Ensure battery is charged before first use for optimal performance.

Specifications

• Type: In-ear, noise-cancelling.
• Driver: Proprietary Bose driver.
• Frequency Response: Not specified by Bose.
• Noise Cancellation: Active, with Aware Mode.
• Battery Life: Up to 16 hours (noise cancellation on).
• Charging Time: Approx. 2 hours to full charge.
• Connector: 3.5mm audio jack.
• Inline Controls: Volume, playback, call answer/end, voice assistant.
• Microphone: Integrated for phone calls.
• Weight: Lightweight design for comfort.

Controls and Functions

Control Module (on cable):

Center Button: Answer/end calls, play/pause music, activate voice assistant (Siri/Google).

Volume + / - Buttons: Adjust volume on connected device.

Aware Mode Button: Press to hear surroundings; press again to return to full noise cancellation.

Battery Pack:

Power Switch: Slide to ON/OFF.

Status LED: Green = powered on. Amber (blinking) = charging. Off = charged or off.

Connecting to Devices

Compatible with any device with a 3.5mm audio jack.

1. Ensure device is on and volume is set to a low level.
2. Plug the headphone jack firmly into the device's audio port.
3. Power on the headphones (battery pack switch to ON).
4. Adjust volume on device as needed.

Tip: For best audio quality, ensure the jack is fully inserted.

Using Noise Cancellation & Aware Mode

Noise cancellation is active when headphones are powered on.

1. For full noise reduction: Simply power on. No additional settings needed.
2. To hear surroundings: Press and release the Aware Mode button. Audio will pass through microphones.
3. To return to cancellation: Press the Aware Mode button again.
4. During calls: Noise cancellation reduces background noise for clearer call audio.

WARNING! Use caution when enabling Aware Mode in high-traffic or hazardous environments.

Battery & Charging

Using the rechargeable battery pack.

1. Charging: Connect USB cable to battery pack and a USB power source (computer or wall adapter). Amber LED blinks.
2. Full charge: LED turns off. Approx. 2 hours.
3. Battery status: Green LED on battery pack indicates power. If LED does not light, battery may be depleted.
4. Low battery: Audio may cut out; charge immediately.

NOTE: You can use headphones while charging, but charging time may increase.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth only.

1. Ear tips: Remove and clean with mild soap and water if needed. Dry completely before reattaching.
2. Cables: Wipe with dry cloth. Do not pull or strain.
3. Storage: Store in carrying case when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water. Keep away from extreme heat and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound	Power off / low battery	Ensure battery pack is switched ON and charged. Check device volume.
Noise cancellation not working	Battery / connection	Power on headphones. Ensure battery is charged. Check audio jack connection.
Poor call quality	Microphone blocked	Ensure inline microphone is not covered. Speak directly into mic.
Intermittent audio	Loose connection	Firmly plug audio jack into device. Check for cable damage.
Battery not charging	Faulty cable / source	Try a different USB cable and power source. Ensure connections are secure.

Reset: Power off, disconnect from device, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect and power on.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Support or visit www.bose.com/support.