Headset choices

[ZK-Brock]

Firstly I know there is already a headset thread from way back, but we need another one

So now I've got my PPL I think I need to get my own headset, instead of borrowing. It looks like buying from the USA will work out a LOT cheaper so I'm keen to do that. I'm not hugely fussed about exact numbers of decibel reduction (not gonna buy a 25db headset instead of a 24db one just because of that), just an assurance of reliability, comfort (with sunglasses) and quietness.

PNR= Passive Noise reduction ANR= Active Noise Reduction

Also, can someone please tell me about the Stereo/Mono features in headsets - what does this do, is it worth it etc.

The options as I see them:

1. Buy an entry-level PNR headset from the States. For example I can get a Flightcom 4DLX for $NZ 170 + shipping from the States - this would be $315 from the Downunder Pilot shop. This sort of headset looks quite good - not bargain basement, flex mic boom, dual volume controls.

2. Buy a really good PNR headset from the States. E.g. Dave Clark H10-60 (top of the line PNR DC) for $NZ470 + shipping from States - this would be $799 in NZ. Looks adjustable and quiet. Cons: DC's are heavy? Can someone recommend a fairly top of the line PNR headset?

3. Buy an entry-level ANR headset from the States. E.g Flightcom Classic ANR for $NZ450 + shipping - this would be $875 in NZ. How are these cheaper ANR sets? The only ANR headset I have tried was a Lightspeed Zulu (which was amazing ), how do cheaper ANR headsets stack up?

Any other ideas?

[chopper_nut]

Most of the boys here have ANR headsets of various varieties. The cheapest is an old Flightcomm I think. The only downside is that it is still quite heavy and it goes through the batteries like crazy. Might pay to get something slightly more expensive. Probably last you longer aswell.

[waka172rg]

I'm using link HERE
After 7 years used them from training to the dash 8. Still use them in the 8 but the have been semi relieved now the F-100 has earplug headset

DRE1000 Features:
•24 dB NRR hearing protection
•BNC clear hear mic
•Dual volume control
•Comfort foam ear seals
•Wind block mic muff
•3 year factory warranty




DRE1000

$105.00 USD
$143.00 NZD



Additional features include thumb nut headband adjusters, stay put locking wire boom, high flex reliable wiring, gold plated plugs, rugged ABS ear cups, and black plate spring steel headband. Combined with the best audio components makes the DRE1000 the affortable aviation industry leader. Full three year factory warranty.

[ZKIWI]

I have stuck with a Lightspeed Zulu for the last few years. I absolutely love it. I little bit more expensive than some but IMO worth every cent. It is lightweight, works very well and the ability to bluetooth your phone of music is great for longer flights.

[Kelburn]

QUOTE

2. Buy a really good PNR headset from the States. E.g. Dave Clark H10-60 (top of the line PNR DC) for $NZ470 + shipping from States - this would be $799 in NZ. Looks adjustable and quiet. Cons: DC's are heavy? Can someone recommend a fairly top of the line PNR headset?[/quote]

I use these at the Aero Club (wellington). They work a charm. They block out a lot of noise and cause they're David Clarke they're ultra reliable. They are quite comfortable to. Just my 2cents. I haven't tried any others recently but they seem to do the job...

Hey waka172rg, you a DHC-8 pilot...? (sorry to go off topic)

[waka172rg]

QUOTE (Kelburn @ Oct 10 2009, 05:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I use these at the Aero Club (wellington). They work a charm. They block out a lot of noise and cause they're David Clarke they're ultra reliable. They are quite comfortable to. Just my 2cents. I haven't tried any others recently but they seem to do the job...

Hey waka172rg, you a DHC-8 pilot...? (sorry to go off topic)

David Clarke must sell alot of H/S they are good too.
Yeah fly for air niugini now well over a year now we have 200-300 about 6 months ago did my f-100 F/O course

[ZK-Brock]

QUOTE (chopper_nut @ Oct 10 2009, 11:28 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Most of the boys here have ANR headsets of various varieties. The cheapest is an old Flightcomm I think. The only downside is that it is still quite heavy and it goes through the batteries like crazy. Might pay to get something slightly more expensive. Probably last you longer aswell.

Yeah, so far I'm leaning towards ANR. However I can't justify getting one of the top of the line ANR headsets like the Lightspeed Zulu or the Bose X. Unfortunately these are the only ANR ones that I can find without and real downsides! The flightcom classic ANR is still and $NZ875 headset so it should be pretty good...

QUOTE (waka172rg @ Oct 10 2009, 01:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'm using link HERE
After 7 years used them from training to the dash 8. Still use them in the 8 but the have been semi relieved now the F-100 has earplug headset

DRE1000 Features:
•24 dB NRR hearing protection
•BNC clear hear mic
•Dual volume control
•Comfort foam ear seals
•Wind block mic muff
•3 year factory warranty




DRE1000

$105.00 USD
$143.00 NZD



Additional features include thumb nut headband adjusters, stay put locking wire boom, high flex reliable wiring, gold plated plugs, rugged ABS ear cups, and black plate spring steel headband. Combined with the best audio components makes the DRE1000 the affortable aviation industry leader. Full three year factory warranty.

These look good, I've emailed them about the price of their ANR one.

QUOTE (ZKIWI @ Oct 10 2009, 02:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I have stuck with a Lightspeed Zulu for the last few years. I absolutely love it. I little bit more expensive than some but IMO worth every cent. It is lightweight, works very well and the ability to bluetooth your phone of music is great for longer flights.

I've tried one, they are awesome! But I can't justify spending that much money on a headset when I don't fly particularly often.

QUOTE (Kelburn @ Oct 10 2009, 05:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I use these at the Aero Club (wellington). They work a charm. They block out a lot of noise and cause they're David Clarke they're ultra reliable. They are quite comfortable to. Just my 2cents. I haven't tried any others recently but they seem to do the job...

Hey waka172rg, you a DHC-8 pilot...? (sorry to go off topic)

QUOTE (waka172rg @ Oct 11 2009, 12:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

David Clarke must sell alot of H/S they are good too.
Yeah fly for air niugini now well over a year now we have 200-300 about 6 months ago did my f-100 F/O course

It sounds like Dave Clark is the standard for build quality. Their PNR headsets look great, but apparently their ANR ones aren't up to it from what I've heard.

At the moment I'm looking at either the DC H10-60 PNR, the Flightcom Classic ANR, and the Pilot PA18-50 ANR. Also can anyone commend on the headsets made by FlightCell in Nelson? Their ANR one is $511...

[pois0n]

I've got a David Clark H13.4 and it's pretty good for a basic headseat