Headset recommendations

[scottynz]

Hello all,

Having just started my CPL, I am considering treating myself to a new headset. I am leaning towards the David Clark brand.

Have you knowledgeable folk any recommendations that I can consider. I dont have enough cash for an ANR headset and am looking at spending up to a grand NZ.

Cheers,
ScottyNZ

[skypig]

Hi mate

The DCs are the Lycoming/Bell 47 of headsets. Good in its day, still reliable, in any other industry they wouldn’t sell a single pair!
I can’t remember the model number, but I’d tend towards the “helicopter” model that advertises "high passive protection". I’d also look at one that has an easily swappable mic (one screw to remove, two for the electrical connections). Many models (and brands) don’t offer different mics and in the helicopter world it can be important, as there are 2 completely different impedances used, plus some primitive ICS are sensitive to even the diff between electret and dynamic mics.

I used to have a set of DCs with several mics and a small screw driver.

There is a model with switchable impedance. I haven’t used it, and understand its pricey, worth investigating though.

I have just bought a Lightspeed Zulu ANR. I’ve only used it once. It’s great, and the Bluetooth phone connection works very well. I can’t use it in a Puma, and don’t know if different impedance mics are even available. Of course in my usual over the top approach I also use two helmets, one high , one low impedance . (one with ANR, both dual visor )

Sky "Expensive helmet? What do you plan to put in it?" Pig

[heli_79]

Scotty,

For a $1000 you can buy a BOSE headset on trademe.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Sports/Aviatio ... 675416.htm

Mate, depends what type of ops your doing. In a noisy turbine, go for the ANR. In a robbie, any headset will do the job.

Think of it as an investment into your hearing. Dont sell yourself short. Get a good set with a high grade of noise protection. You won't regret it.

I personally like the Zulu ANR, but that's my choice, everyones different. David Clark are good bits of kit.

Check this previous post - viewtopic.php?f=9&t=1323

All the best,

Heli_79

[BrettC]

I think Altronics do some cheap but reliable ANR headsets, around $450 or so.

[mja]

David Clark for sure; BOSE if you are prepared to send the money, although very posh! Altronics are crap for Helo Op's.........David Clark are a very faithful good set......

[UnObvious]

I swore by my DCs, then I bought a Lightspeed Zulu. The other day I had to do a day flying in the DCs again. It was horrible.
Splash the cash and get a Zulu. The bluetooth is gold, and the ANR makes everything so much nicer. What's your hearing worth to you?

[JohnnyDrama]

Unob,

you really know i appreciated the other day when you had to go back to the old tech just to help me out......xx

[komodo]

Highly reccomend the Zulu light speed, very comfortable.

[BizR]

Ive just ordered a pair of the new Bose A20 aviation Headset. Once I recieve and try em out, I'll give a short review.

Check out the specs if ya want

http://sportys.com/PilotShop/product/14865

[helicopternewie]

Hey BizR

I'm thinking of doing the same thing... did you buy it from Sportys in the US? If so did you find them ok? Postage, etc to Australia? And did you get away without paying duty?

Cheers,
Newie

[black duck]

Another really,really important point is, make sure that the OD of the head does not exceed the ID of the head set!

[Ag-Rotor]

Does any one know what the Peltor ( Heli Model ) is like ?

[Robinsondog]

scottynz
Helis or F/W?

If Helis why not put a deposit on a good brand helmet, cheap at any price?
RD

[BizR]

Hey BizR

I'm thinking of doing the same thing... did you buy it from Sportys in the US? If so did you find them ok? Postage, etc to Australia? And did you get away without paying duty?

Cheers,
Newie

Helicopternewie,
Havn't got them yet. Sportys yep, and I'll let you know about the rest after I get them.

[Spex]

mmmm Bose A20

[Koezy]

helmet with extra set of gel seals plus vol control as it is so good you will want to turn down the radio noise. after half stuffing my hearing around helis tractors and pumps, believe me your head and your hearing are worth spending the dollars on. K

[Hoey]

Definately suggest that you get the Lightspeed as they are fantastic, light comfortable especially when you start doing two and three hours nav in a 300 or 22 you want to be comfortable!! If you get the chance to try flying in a helmet then I suggest you do as a good helmet is far superior than a cap and sunnies, however depends on whether you see your self doing charter or ag work etc!!!! if you have the cash splash out on both!!!

[scottynz]

Thanks all for the advice. I think I will keep trying to save some cash and try and get the zulus. Although at the rate my cash is disappearing, it looks like I'll be sticking my fingers in my ears. Might add an extra bit of difficulty to the flying however.

Thanks again for the advice.

Cheers,
ScottyNZ

[FerrariFlyer]

Does any one know what the Peltor ( Heli Model ) is like ?

...akin to a cheapish pair of industrial ear defenders with a token mic and ear speakers to boot. You can get similar performance from sticky taping a couple of polystyrene cups over your ears

[skypig]

The Peltors have a cheapish feel to them, but the noise attenuation seems quite good (based on ear defenders I guess).

In fact there is a model widely used in the North Sea which is virtually mandated by one company due to the tested high noise attenuation. This model doesn’t have the mic boom attached to the ear cup (to preserve the integrity of the ear cup). They come in the correct impedance for Super Pumas (Low), I’m not sure if they are available in “civilian” impedance (5 Ohm?).

Model MT72H540F-91(AKA Peltor Humminbird Headset)
Protects against- Poor communication in noisy environments
Type- Head Band
Colour- Black
Format- Twin Cup Headset
Features- European NATO connected Moulded Plug
Protection Level- 95dB(A) - 110dB(A)
Attenuation Rating- (SNR) 33dB(A)
Noise Band Rating- (Alert) 95dB(A) - 110dB(A)
Weight- 440 g
Typical Applications Aviation

Try www.benelec.com.au


Sky "What?" Pig