Shopping for a headset: where to begin?

[Birdman of Ballard]

I'm just returning to flying after decades of inactivity. Back when I did my initial training, headsets were not seen (not in the planes I flew at least....it has been a LONG time!). Nowadays, headsets seem to be pretty much everywhere, and as I'm flying in insanely complex/congested airspace (Seattle, WA, with 3 large airports clustered within spitting distance of each other; it seems pretty crazy to me), it has been suggested to me that being very sharp with ATC communications is a good idea, and having a decent headset just seems to be expected. OK, seems reasonable.

Right now, about all I know about headsets is that Dave Clark's are light green.

Any pointers on beginning the process of shopping for a headset? What should I look for? Where's the best place to shop and buy? Is there any good (unbiased) source of comparisons/ratings/etc.? I don't need something that's needlessly gold-plated, but am willing to spend what I need to to get the right unit (whatever THAT turns out to be).

Thanks!

[SeaAir]

You might want to have a look at the headset discussion that has been going on in "The Hanger" section.

If there is an unbiased source of information on headsets I haven't found it. Most of the people I've spoken to are very fond of whatever they have - myself included. (I have Flightcom headsets and am happy with the sound quality, comfort, and price.) You might try talking to the folks at the Aviators store at Boeing - maybe they will let you borrow different sets. Also, some manufacturers (Flightcom is one) have 30 day trials of their products. Your instructor may also let you borrow theirs. Try to test the different models in the airplane, if possible, but you can also plug it into your stereo to test the sound quality.

For a first headset, I would try to find a good passive set. They are *much* less expensive than active noise cancelling, and the better quality ones have good sound quality. Unless you are flying a lot, the little bit of noise that makes it through won't cause you to miss anything.

[djschaut]

Birdman and SeaAir,

I've been in touch with one of the engineers at Bose, and they're just about to bring to market a new 'active' noise-cancelling headset for personal use. It's not intended for aviation use, but for better music listening. I actively cancels unwanted noise while only letting through music from the CD or tape it's plugged into.

I'm interested in them to drown out unwanted, unpleasant sound for patients in the operating room--thereby reducing their anesthetic requirement.

They won't be out until October in stores and sell for $200. I think the aviation models are still expensive. Bose has a website which can be found via a search engine.

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DJSchaut

Once you've entered into the world of Active Noise Reduction (ANR) headsets, you won't go anywhere else. They are twice as expensive, but worth every cent. David Clark in my mind is the best value, but shop around.

[Tom McGehee]

If you have problems with headsets being uncomfortable, the Lightspeeds are a good choice. I couldn't stand flying for more than an hour because I would always get a headache from the headsets I wore. We broke down and bought some Lightspeeds and they really are comfortable. I can wear them all day with no pain. The ANR is a plus; can actually hear radio transmissions from the right seat now! They are expensive but well worth the money.

debbie

[BAYALON]

You also can try Peltor. They are inexpensive and will not give you headache. The minus is that they do look flimsy. My wife and I have tried 4 different makes, the David Clark might be the sexier but they will give you the headache after 2h or so. The only way is to try in front of the TV.

[Birdman of Ballard]

I was up at the Arlington show this past weekend and tried on several headsets. I'm leaning towards the Lightspeed 20XL. They did seem quite comfortable, if a bit more bulky than I had expected (those earpads are BIG). Not cheap, but not the most expensive either, and I've heard nothing but praise for them. Anybody have any contrary opinions?

[Birdman of Ballard]

Oh, one more thing: is there anyplace to get a "deal" on these? The prices I've seen all seem the same.....is there anyplace that at least does free shipping? Thanks.

[BAYALON]

For deals try Avionics West Inc. The Web Address is: avionicswest.com

[Tom McGehee]

We got our Lightspeeds from Marv Golden. They were comparable in price with other places but the shipping was free (we asked if they had a special for buying two sets and they gave us the free shipping). My husband opted for the Lightspeed 200XL and really likes them. The site is http://www.marvgolden.com

debbie

[skyhog]

AH!headset, yes! you should own and wear headsets. Why? at 55 I have lost a lot of hearing from not wearing them. Which are best? I have 22 sets, DC's SoftCom's, Light Speeds, AVAIATORS, Telex etc. Which do I always pick up? David Clarks 10-13.4's. Why? Light, comfortable, good noise reduction, and DC warranty, no hassel. My second choice is the Telex for the same reasons. David Clark will not allow their dealers to advertise a lower price than $292.95 for the 10-13.4. and sets the lowest price dealer prices at which they can be sold. When buying headset make sure they fit well,and are comfortable, price should not be the factor here, you can not replace your hearing when it has been loss. Skyhog

[Birdman of Ballard]

Well, I ended up getting the LightSpeed 20XL set and am quite happy with 'em. Happy enough that after I get my ticket (which I hope will be within a few weeks), I plan to get another set for my passenger,