I always buy Sony noise-cancelling headphones which work both in wired and wireless mode. In wired mode, they can be used powered on, with NC, or not, like an old-fashioned headset.

Their main default is relative fragility. However the latest I've bought (WH-1000XM3) have incredibly efficient noise cancellation. Also you don't need to install any app to use them. Unfortunately they replaced the easy-to-use play/pause/FF/RW button and volume rocker of the previous models with tactile gestures, but it's bearable.

I got tired of repairing them and the noise cancelling in the newer models is much better. Bittterly I've moved to Bose 700 after my 2nd QC25's noise cancelling died.

There is hope - I just discovered that the QC45 has just been released and the form factor is identical to the QC25, with bluetooth and no built-in voice assistant.

That is fantastic news, my primary gripe with the 700 is that the NC doesn't work in wired mode. Doubtful if they will change that though. Any source on removing voice assistant?

The chart comparing it to the 700 indicates the lack of voice assistant on the QC45. The PDF instruction manual states:

"You can use the headphones powered on or off when the the audio cable is connected."

I'm hopeful this all means what I want it to mean.

https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/headphones/noise_cancell...

Thanks, really hopeful. Not clear if powered on means NC, because that would be very good. I'd use my old QC25 cable with the mic in that case.

""You can use the headphones powered on or off when the the audio cable is connected."