At the end of the day any headsetchoice will have to be a compromise - I agree the BA noise reduction version is the healthy option but far too expensive for most companies to entertain,let alone individuals.
Most UK jet operators use Sennheiser 45,s and are company provided by some.Very few pilots like them though.Its not just the discomfort of wearing this clampish headset for 9hour duties , offset with one earphone pushed back but also the volume has to be set so high.
Fortunately we now use the best headset in the business - the plantronics starset fits over one ear ,no headband ,direct sound to ear, volume setting is the lowest I,ve ever seen on com box ,works on our B737/A320 and its that comfortable you don,t even think of removing it during cruise - highly recommended!!
