David Clark Aviation Headset
Buying guide The Best Aviation Headsets for Every Budget (2019)44.8k viewsThe headset is one of the most important accessories and tools a pilot has in the cockpit. Hundreds of different headsets are on the market today, but which one should you get?
Shop for David Clark aviation headset parts and accessories at SkyGeek. Choose from microphones, jacks, earphone assemblies, adapters and more.
How much should you spend and what about ANR and PNR? Finding the right headset can be confusing, especially when you see how many different brands are out there, promoting their newest models with all the bells and whistles. Let us help you make a well thought-out decision! No time to read the full article?!
Aviation headsetsAn aviation headset is easily one of the most important purchases you make as a pilot, apart from an aircraft of course. Your headset will be your tool to communicate with others inside and outside of the aircraft.
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Not only will it help you communicate, it will also play an even bigger role: protecting your hearing.Our human hearing system is sensitive to sound frequencies between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz and amplifies the sound between 2,000 and 5,000 Hz, since that's where our human voice is situated. While sound frequencies are measured in hertz (Hz), the volume or intensity of sound is expressed in decibels (dB). A quiet room is around 40dB and a normal conversation around 50-80dB. Our hearing is sensitive to these so-called sound pressure levels (SPL), but it's also very vulnerable to sounds with higher intensity like a rock concert or airplane engines (120-130dB). When you are exposed to sounds of 90dB and more, you risk damaging your inner ear, resulting in temporary or worse, permanent hearing loss.Pilots are exposed to high volumes, and usually in low frequencies, for a long period at a time.
Hearing loss can and will occur if you're not protecting your ears properly. The good news is, you can protect them. The key to this is having a headset that does a good job handling and reducing this noise.That's why having a decent aviation headset is crucial, not only for safety when flying but also for your own ears. Since hearing loss is irreversible, prevention is always better than cure.
Types of headsetsFirst of all, it's important to distinguish a few different types of headsets. The main differences are the noise reduction technology the headset uses and the general look of the headsets.In-ear vs on-earJust like normal headphones people use in their everyday life, aviation headsets come in two main categories. On one hand, you have the on-ear headsets, these are the most commonly used ones.
On-ear headsets also offer the biggest choice of brands and models on the market. Well-known examples of on-ear headset brands are David Clark, Bose, Sennheiser and Lightspeed.The on-ear aviation headsetThe second category is in-ear headsets. These headsets use little speaker plugs that are put inside your ear, just like the headphones of your smartphone. These headsets are less common, but offer the great advantage that they are usually more comfortable and weigh a lot less (and don't cause bad hair days). However, the way they feel and sit on your head mostly depends on your ears. While on-ear headsets fit almost everyone, in-ear headsets can feel different from person to person.
Good examples of in-ear headsets are the Faro Air and Clarity Aloft headsets (more information about headsets those below).The in-ear aviation headset PNR vs ANR & DNRThe second category of headsets is based on their ability to reduce or cancel noise and the noise reduction technology they use. We'll discuss passive noise reduction (PNR), active noise reduction (ANR) and dynamic noise reduction (DNR) headsets.Passive noise reduction (PNR)Passive noise reduction headsets are usually the least expensive ones.
They have noise suppressing foam that fills the earcup cavity and passively reduces the noise by sealing off sounds that come from outside the headset. For proper noise reduction, PNR headsets should fit firmly around the side of your head.PNR headsets can range from $60 to $600.Active noise reduction (ANR) and Dynamic noise reduction (DNR)ANR headsets actively reduce and cancel the noise by using electronics inside the headset to remove or suppress unwanted aircraft noise.
These headsets are usually battery-powered and use a filter to separate the wanted signal from the unwanted signals, usually below 300Hz. The separated noise is inverted and mixed with the original signal, which results in the noise and inverted noise canceling each other. ANR headsets use a little microphone inside the headset to 'read' incoming noise and generate the anti-noise signal.Active noise reduction headsets can usually obtain a noise reduction of 10-20dB, which means at 20dB, the noise is only 1/100th of the original level. Since you don't want to block wanted signals, like alerts or a sputtering engine, ANR headsets only block frequencies below 300Hz. ANR headsets are in most cases more expensive than their passive noise reduction counterparts.There is also another kind of active noise canceling headsets, the dynamic noise reduction (DNR) headsets. These are more expensive then ANR headsets, but are lighter and provide an extra level of noise canceling by using digital electronic techniques to remove noise components from the incoming headphone signal.
PNR headsets achieve this by digitizing signals in a series of numerical values, which are then processed to look for repetitive noise signals and remove noise components.DNR headsets suppress noise by 15-25dB and noise signals of up to 3,500Hz can be detected and canceled. They can range in price from $250 up to $1500.MicrophonesIt's not only important to look at the types of headphones and their ability to cancel incoming noise, we'll also need to take into account the outgoing sounds from the microphone.If the microphone of your headset does not have any suppression against noise pick-up, this noise can enter the audio system of the intercom in your airplane, or be transmitted over the radio to other aircraft and ATC, making your calls a lot less clear and understandable. You might have noticed a lot of microphones have a mic muff, or windscreen, to offer some suppression of cabin noise, but by itself, this is not enough to prevent all unwanted noise entering your mic.Like the ear muffs, microphones need a quality noise suppressing foam muff.
In addition to this, a 'jacket' over the foam will increase its effectiveness. Always make sure to pay attention to the microphone when purchasing a headset. Things to considerWhen purchasing a headset, there are a few other things to consider than just the way they reduce noise.ComfortThe first factor to consider is how comfortable the headset is. You will be wearing it for hours at a time, make sure they properly fit and feel comfortable. Ear cushions and the headband will have a big impact on the comfort, to make sure to try some different models and brands. Some headsets have the bad characteristic of starting to squeeze your head after wearing them for a while.
Be sure to wear the headset for at least 10 minutes to really feel how they sit.BluetoothA common option for modern headsets is Bluetooth capability. Lots of devices, like GPS systems and smartphones, can be connected to headphones via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for extra cables in the cockpit. Having Bluetooth functionality on your headset can be a big advantage and a good reason to pay a little extra.The headsets can be purchased with Bluetooth capabilityNoise ReductionWe've already discussed the different types of noise reduction of headsets. Deciding whether to buy a PNR or ANR headset depends on a few different factors.First of all, set a budget for yourself and buy accordingly. ANR headsets can cost significantly more than PNR, but if you have the budget for it, ANR could be the way to go.Secondly, you'll need to think about how often you will use your headset. Are you going to use it only a few times a month, or will you be flying with it daily for hours at a time? If you're going to use your headset daily, you might find ANR headsets a better option since they will significantly reduce the noise you are exposed to.Cable and plugsDepending on the type of aircraft you're going to fly, another type of headset plugs are required.
Helicopters, for example, use other connectors than fixed-wing GA (general aviation) airplanes, and manufacturer Airbus uses another connector, XLR, which is also used in professional audio recording.Always make sure to check which connectors and cables you'll need and buy the correct one.WeightThe weight of your headset can be another factor to take into account. PNR headsets are less expensive, but they are usually also heavier since the earcups contain noise reducing foam. Again, make sure to wear a few headsets to see which feels the most comfortable.
Heavier doesn't necessarily mean less comfortable.PriceWe've already touched on the price point of different headsets and mentioned ANR headsets are more expensive than their PNR counterparts, with DNR headsets even more expensive.Just set a budget for yourself and stick to it. If you can afford a more expensive one, it could be the right thing to do. When in doubt, the best advice is still to 'buy the most headset you can afford'.Below we bundled some of the best headsets on the market today and arranged them by price. The best aviation headsets under $500ASA HS-1The is a headset we personally own and love. ASA's basic headset model is perfect for student pilots and those not willing to spend a fortune on a headset. The foam ear cushions are comfortable and provide good noise reduction but still allow you to hear the sounds around you, which is very helpful for student pilots.
Together with the double volume knobs on each side, the headset makes for great sound quality.The only downsides we found with this headset is that it tends to get a little tight around your head on longer flights. It also lacks the aux audio input that other comparable headsets at this price point have.
Apart from that, it's a great starter headset!Looking at price/quality this is one of the best headsets you can buy. You can't expect Bluetooth, mp3 input or other fancy options at this price point, but it is affordable, comfortable, durable and gets the job more than done. If you later decide to get a more expensive headset, you can always use this one for other passengers.The received a 4.3/5 rating on Amazon. Type: On-ear. Noise reduction: PNR.
Noise reduce: 23dB. Microphone: Electret. Weight: 884g. Ear cushions: High-density acoustic foam. Headband: Gel.
Volume control: Dual. MP3/audio input: No. Bluetooth: No. Wireless: No. Warranty: Lifetime manufacturer's warranty. Last update: 07 June 2019Faro G2 PNRFaro Aviation, a pilot owned and operated company started in the 90's when the pilot-owner was dissatisfied with the current headsets on the market. He went on to create Faro Aviation, a company that offers great headsets at a great price.The is Faro Aviation's least expensive and most popular model.
With passive noise reduction up to 26dB, the G2 is quieter than most other PNR headsets we cover in this guide. The large soft cushion provides extra Comfort for long cross-country flights and makes the headset feel light. Last update: 07 June 2019Kore Aviation KA-1The is Kore Headset's premium model. Last update: 07 June 2019David Clark H10-13.4David Clark is one of the oldest and most trusted brands when it comes to aviation headsets. The, its most popular model, has been around for many years and used all over the world in every different type of aircraft imaginable.
Wherever you go, you will always see people wearing the trusty DC H10-13.4.The super-soft, double-foam head pad make the headset comfortable to wear, even on longer flights. It comes at a slightly higher price point than other comparable headsets and doesn't have the double volume controls or auxiliary audio input, but it is backed by David Clark’s famous reputation for quality and service. When buying the H10-13.4, you're set for years of reliable service.The received a 4.3/5 rating on Amazon.
Type: On-ear. Noise reduction: PNR.
Noise reduce: 23dB. Microphone: Electret.
Weight: 468g. Ear cushions: Gel. Headband: Double Foam. Volume control: Single.
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MP3/audio input: No. Bluetooth: No. Wireless: No. Warranty: 5 years. Last update: 07 June 2019Faro G2 ANRThe is the G2 PNR's bigger brother, with active noise reduction. For about $200 more, you get noise reduction up to 52dB for the quietest cockpit and most comfort.The G2 PNR uses two AA batteries that provide up to 30 hours of active noise reduction, depending on the environment. The headset will continue to work as PNR when the batteries run low or die.If you are looking for an ANR headset but not willing to spend $500+, the gives you the most bang for your buck!This headset received a 4/5 rating on Amazon and 5/5 on Faro's website.
We wrote a review about the Faro G2 ANR aviation headset here on the website! You can read our review. Type: On-ear. Noise reduction: ANR. ANR battery: 2 x AA, up to 30 hours (depending on environment). Noise reduce: Up to 23dB without ANR, 52dB with ANR.
Microphone: Electret. Weight: 570g (G2 PNR + 200g). Ear cushions: Soft leather. Headband: Soft cushion. Volume control: Dual. MP3/audio input: Yes. Bluetooth: No.
Wireless: No. Warranty: 3-year full coverage warranty.
Extras: AUX audio cable. Last update: 07 June 2019Faro AIRMost pilots put up with carrying a large heavy headset on their head for hours and hours. The changes this.With its 28 grams, the Faro Air is the lightest and the only in-ear headset in this list. Last update: 07 June 2019 The best aviation headsets over $500Lightspeed Sierra ANRThe is a great choice for budget-conscious pilots, students, and passengers. It offers high-end performance and features - including outstanding noise cancellation, full Bluetooth integration and compatibility with FlightLink, Lightspeed's in-cockpit recording app.
It's a great place to start into the world of ANR headsets.The received a 4.3/5 rating on Amazon. Type: On-ear.
Noise reduction: ANR. ANR battery: 2 x AA. Microphone: Electret.
Weight: 453g. Ear cushions: Leather. Headband: Soft padding cushion. Volume control: Dual.
MP3/audio input: Yes. Bluetooth: Yes. Wireless: No. Warranty: 5-year warranty. Extras: Carrying case, music patch cord, cord clip, two AA batteries, foam windscreen. Last update: 07 June 2019Faro G3 ANRWeighing only 255 grams, the is the lightest on-ear headset in this list.
Last update: 07 June 2019David Clark DC Pro-XThe is David Clark's latest aviation headset model. Based on the brand's previous best-seller models, their new headset offers best-in-class Hybrid electronic noise cancellation and Bluetooth wireless technology in a rugged, yet feather-light magnesium alloy suspension.The received a 4.3/5 rating on Amazon. Type: On-ear. Noise reduction: ANR.
ANR battery: 2 x AA, at least 50 hours. Noise reduce: 30dB.
Microphone: Electret. Weight: 215g. Ear cushions: Leather. Headband: Ultra-soft leatherette. Volume control: Dual.
MP3/audio input: No. Bluetooth: Yes. Wireless: No. Warranty: 5-year Manufacturer Limited Warranty. Extras: Headset bag. Last update: 07 June 2019Lightspeed Tango WirelessThe is Lightspeed's first premium wireless headset.
Last update: 07 June 2019Lightspeed Zulu 3The, Lightspeed's most premium headset. This new model has new contoured ear seals that reduce pressure, new cables that are more flexible and durable and the same ANR technology other models of the brand have. Additional features include Lightspeed's Auto Shutoff and ComPriority.The received a 4/5 rating on Amazon.
Type: On-ear. Noise reduction: ANR.
ANR battery: 4 x AA, 20 hours. Noise reduce: Not published by manufacturer. Microphone: Electret. Weight: 395g. Ear cushions: Plush.
Headband: Leather. Volume control: Dual. MP3/audio input: Yes.
Bluetooth: Yes. Wireless: No. Warranty: 7-year warranty. Extras: Carrying case, cellphone/music patch cords, cord clips, two AA batteries, foam windscreen.
Last update: 07 June 2019Bose ProFlight Aviation HeadsetThe is the smallest, lightest, most comfortable headset from Bose. Lightweight, in-ear active noise cancellation for long-term comfort over extended flights, with many new features designed specifically for airline and corporate aircraft flight decks.The ProFlight features three levels of active noise cancellation and a unique feature called tap control for talk-through communication in a compact, banded, in-ear design. It’s decades of Bose research engineered into a form factor unlike any other aviation headset.Bose frequently received the question “Will this headset work in my GA aircraft?”Their answer is the following: 'The is designed and best suited for quiet to moderate noise levels in flight decks of pressurized turbine powered aircraft. Here’s a partial list of aircraft companies that make planes where ProFlight will excel: Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, Embraer, Gulfstream, Citation Jets, the Cirrus Vision Jet, Eclipse Jets, HondaJet, Learjets, Beech & Hawker Jets, Dassault, Pilatus and Daher TBM. The ProFlight is not recommended for use in single or multi-engine piston aircraft. If you fly that type of plane, the Bose A20 Aviation headset is still your best option.' .
Type: In-ear. Noise reduction: ANR. ANR battery: 2 x AA, 25 hours (Bluetooth on) or 45+ hours (Bluetooth off).
Microphone: Electret. Weight: 139g. MP3/audio input: Yes. Bluetooth: Yes. Wireless: No. Extras: 2x AA batteries, Three sizes of StayHear+ tips, Control module holder and Carrying case.
Last update: 07 June 2019Bose A20 ANR with BluetoothWith its price point of just over $1k, the is the most expensive on this list. If you have ever used Bose headphones or other audio systems, you know what superior sound quality the company's speakers can produce. The A20 aviation headset is engineered to be more comfortable and provide more noise reduction than any headset Bose has ever made, while still delivering the clear audio you expect from Bose.The A20 is one of the most comfortable headsets, if not the most comfortable one, we have used. The soft leather ear cushions and the comfortable fit of the headband make this headset very comfortable, especially on longer flights.At this price point, you expect the best.
The does a great job delivering just that.The received a 4.6/5 rating on Amazon. Type: On-ear. Noise reduction: ANR. ANR battery: 2 x AA, at least 45 hours. Noise reduce: Not published by manufacturer. Microphone: Electret.
Weight: 340g. Ear cushions: Leather. Headband: Plush padded. Volume control: Dual. MP3/audio input: Yes.
Bluetooth: Yes. Wireless: No. Warranty: 5 years. Extras: In-line clothing clip, Control module, 2 AA batteries, Aux-in cable, Carrying case.