simple things like wearing caps and sunglasses etc that you may accept the fact that they sit under your ear seal, i wear wire frame sunnies like the Mako,s and have them clipped short to avoid them effecting the rear of the seal as well and nudge the cap up a little and found this doubled my batt life.
It was always recommended not to use rechargables but being a bit of a rouge i did, i use 250 MAH and get 3 days or more.

I use rechargeable 9vs in my 10-13xl in light aircraft and they only last 5-6 hours. Small planes must be as noisy as helicopters.

I'm pleased its not just mine that go flat so fast.

At least the DCs still work as passive headsets once the batteries go flat.

In-ear headsets
 

Has anyone tried the lightweight in-ear headsets? Lightspeed and some others are marketing them, and are advertising 29dB noise reduction, which is better than the ANR headsets being sold. They use foam earplugs, which do have high NRR ratings, and don't require the clamping, sweat-inducing force of the typical headsets, freeing the pilot to wear whatever sunglasses he likes, and not requiring removal of the :mad: button on top of the cap. I like the concept, but I'm reluctant to spend the money without knowing more about the possible drawbacks. Any experiences would be welcome. :ok:

Re: david clark battery life question
 

I've got the 13xl's and I use rechargeables. Get about 2 x 3hour sorties outta one battery in a 206. Always carry a spare battery, but the headset is still exceptionally good, even if the ANR isn't working.

S76 Headset's
 

Hi All,

About to start a new job flying S76's and need to buy a nice new headset as i have been using helmets up till now.:ugh:

Firstly, are all 76's Low Impedance or do they vary across the fleet, also same question with the jack plugs are they US or UK NATO or other??

Secondly, For those who are flying/have flown the 76, do ANR headsets work well? do they interfere with the other guys headset? does the other pilot req ANR as well? Can you hear all you would like to hear? Do you need to go ANR or stay passive?

Thirdly, Do you recommend a particular type/manufacturer of headset. Just looked through past threads and it seems the BOSE headsets are a tad fragile but are great when working, The DC headsets are robust work well but weigh alot. Any other makes people have used?

Does anyone have experience with the DC's? I saw one that was switchable from low/high impedance. Is this standard/optional/after market.

Any advice, thoughts, reccommendations would be appreciated before I go and commit a load of wonga!!!!:confused:

Cheers

L' :ok:

Call yer new job's Greenie...find out about the plugs...impedance...and buy yerself a topline Davd Clark and forget about the Bose...too flimsy...Peltor's too cheaply built. If you buy the helicopter pilot switchable impedance headset it will work with either high or low impedance. You can buy adaptor plugs that will convert Nato to civvie.

DC's are the standard by which headsets are judged....buy one and it will last you a lifetime.

Forget the ANR routine...they seem to be more trouble than they are worth.

One man's opinion.

I'm with SASless, ask your greenie (avionics tech if you are new to this).

Personally, I like the Bose ANR and think they work great, but have used the DC for years and even tried the Peltor (North Sea Specials) that the Scandinavians are keen on - probably for the same reason they like Saabs and Volvos. On an ambulance job where you fly 10 hours a month I wouldn't bother with ANR, but if you're putting in 4-6 hour days I wouldn't be without them. Old S76's tend to be low impedance unless modified in a refit, everything new like a C+ or an S92 uses high-impendence. A reputable employer will offer to replace your microphone on your personal headset if it doesn't match the impedance. The US plug is standard, unless some dufus has changed it. Most new generation avionics, such as AVAD, EGPWS systems etc are all high impedance, making it a PIA for the avionic guys to keep everything working for some luddite's low impedance headset.


malabo

Hi, Standard David Clark 10-60 works great for me! Very durable headset.
Cheers:ok:

Headsets
 

Choice of headset is a bit like which car do you like, a very much personal thing. We have both Bose and the DC ANR sets and whilst I prefer the Bose there are good and bad points for each type.
As for 76's, they come as a low impedance mic audio system and let me say, our new C+ have the standard audio boxes fitted and they have the worst speech circuitry I have ever heard on an aircraft. The setup of audio levels between receive audio, sidetone and ICS will make or break a audio system so the greenies (English term for avionics guru guy, comes from their Navy I think) need to get that right to make it work.

DC ANR - a little too heavy for me after a long day in the seat. I have used a number of different models including the lighter weight H10s that broke attaching parts and the like. The current 'hard' plastic type is more robust. The DC does have better passive noise attenuation than the Bose by its ear cup design and clamp force.

The Bose is very comfortable to wear I find. The later version has a much better battery/controller design than the previous model however, the volume control knobs that are mounted on both sides are easily knocked. This I fixed with an elastic garter consisting of some dressmaking elastic about an inch wide stitched in a circle of a suitable diameter to slip over the controller and over the volume knobs. Works a treat.

ANR as against non ANR - for me never again. Noise is a significant fatigue factor and whilst the expense of ANR to passive is not insignificant, your hearing will deteriorate with repeated exposure to noise over time. And anything that reduces that exposure is a good think me thinks. The comprehension of radio traffic is also greatly enhanced, particularly if you have to fly in an airspace system like that in Nigeria.:ugh:

Low versus Hi impedance – The disadvantage of the Bose is that you either have to order the low or the hi Z mic assembly. The mic assembly includes the controller that also houses the batteries on the non-aircraft powered models. To have both hi and low Z systems covered therefore can be at a cost. However, if you purchase a lo Z mic assemble, there are after market adapters, some box types like the Carter, or inline types which will convert your lo to a high when plugged into a hi Z system. These adapters use the mic volts in the aircraft’s mic circuit to power a little amplifier. If you purchase a hi Z mic assembly, you still can by an adapter for Hi to lo but it will require its own power source (a battery) to operate, all a bit messy. The DC doesn’t have this problem as it has a hi/lo switch.
Cost – Both makes more expensive, Bose more expensive than the DC. My experience with the after sales service of both companies is excellent. One of our guys had a problem with his new DC, it was replaced immediately without fuss. Similarly, my newer Bose had a problem, was replaced immediately.

My view, ANR is a worthy investment and very much a personal choice of type. If you can, borrow one of each type to try before you buy.

Geoff

Well I have just got used to having a helmet but when I had to go without the helmet+ANR for a couple of duties and return to a normal DC headset I have to say I was horified by all that extra noise which was making my life a misery.

Therefore my suggestion is go for the ANR, you can concentrate much better on the job at hand.

Bose Headset
 

I have had a Bose Head Set now for 12 months and have had to send it back as of a funny buzzing noise in the right side and a on and off clicking sound in the left occasionally. I love wearing it for the comfort and weight compared to the David Clark. Has anyone had one of these for a long period of time and not had trouble with it. Would there be any problems with leaving it in the machine while hangered or should i take it out all together. Comments would be appreciated. Thanks Chopper 74

I've got about 1200 hours on my Bose, mostly rattling around in S300s, but some time in JRs, as well as a variety of planks (even once in a B757 where I was at the nexus of a lot of noise - that got some strange looks). Mine were the old-style (9V battery), at about 200 hours I purchased the upgrade to the new style controls, which replaced the mike, cables, and control box, so 900 or so hours on the current setup.

I've had zero problems with the Bose. I generally do not leave them in the aircraft - if I do, I make sure they are out of the sun. Doors-off, winter cold (-25C) summer hot (35C), no issues as long as I have the headstrap adjusted well - if it is too "big", turning my head lets excess noise in and freaks out the ANR. I also usually don't wear glasses, although when I do, it's fine.

Thanks Guys

Think I will try and use both first. However am leaning towards DC's for strength + passive protection.

Cheers

L'

H10-40
 

for my 2 cents worth - David Clarke H10-40's are the best of the lot. Mine have given me 20 years of faithfull service and I don't work for the company or sell them.:ok:

DC H10-60 bought new in 91', and the quality is still great. Best "Present" I ever bought for myself! Buy an extra pair of cotton pads that go over the ear seals. Good luck with the new job. :ok:

Hey CHOPPER74,
I know of a bose set with the same crackling problem. When you sent them back did they replace or repair? I'm suspecting a fatigue crack in the wire where it runs throught the clamp above the earpiece.

L'WAAPAM,
I have used both the bose and the DC. On a big day I must say the bose wins hands down, it's a lot lighter and more comfortable. Yes the DC's are more robust but why don't you just take a little care when handling them? Carry a spare set of batteries and you needn't worry about the benefits of passive noise reduction. There are things that could use a little improvement on the bose such as a better latch to set the length and more gentle cable clips along the headband but overall I reckon the bose is a much better bet.

Happy flying whatever you choose!

Well Slung
 

They ended replacing the headset which was good. The noise sounded like you had a mosquito in there and was very annoying, i ended up turning the ANR off most of the time then untill i could send them away. If i turned my head a bit the noise level would decrease. Batteries definately dont last 50 hrs either, around 25 to 30 me thinks. Other than that a great headset.

Hi gents,

While we are on the subject of headsets, does anyone use or know if the PILOT 17-79DNC XL ANR headsets are any good as they seem to be a lot cheaper than the Bose and DC (289 Quid)...and they have the rechargable battery pack within the headset itself so no long dangly wires!!!!

Anybody use Sennheiser brand as well!!!


Anybody have any info?

P.S. Also to be used in the S76..

Many thanks,

Fatigue.

Are we allowed to buy & sell here? I'm an oldie going slowly deaf & had to buy a Bose headset just so I can understand ATC. So my Gentex helmet (with less sophisticated ANR inserts) is avaliable if someone want s to make an offer?

Not sure what has been said already, but...

Currently using the DC H10-56 in the S76C+. With ANR, it is a great headset. Durable, and good ANR. Yes, its heavier than the Bose, but I have a strong neck so I don't actually notice the weight!! Passive noise reduction is good as well. You could fly a shift without your ANR with this headset. I've heard the Bose passive NR is not good at all (but have never tried it).

I have the old 9V battery box. I've never actually checked how long the battery lasts...don't really want / need to know.

cl12pv2s

Re: Passive vs Active noise reduction. Yes, the DC ANR has good passive, that is because it is a passive designed system converted to ANR. The Bose doesn't because it was designed as an ANR system from a fresh sheet of paper. I don't know why anyone would care if an ANR system had good passive or not - its like buying a car based on whether it is still easy to drive when the power steering quits working. The newer AA powered Bose lasts for about 40 hours and the indicator gives lots of warning when the batteries run down. The things that a passive system needs in order to work - heavier noise insulated ear cups, good cup-skin seals, sufficient clamping force for the cups to seal against your head - all add up to the discomfort and disadvantages of a passive system. You can leave all those behind when you go to a purpose built ANR like the BOSE.

I own and use both DC passive (high and low impedance), and Bose ANR (with both high and low impedance microphones). I prefer the Bose: lighter than a DC, far less clamping force, more comfortable ear seals (not really sealing anything). When you poke a set of sunglasses on, the lighter clamping force makes it more comfortable than the DC's and the ANR still keeps the noise down. Anybody flying without sunglasses, especially offshore, may as well start planning now for cataract surgery.

malabo

I've used David Clarks for years, but I recently bought lightweight in-the-ear model from ANR-Headsets.com. They use foam earplugs, no heavy domes over the ears. I really like them, and they're much quieter than any headset I've tried, ANR or passive. They have a NRR of 30, and are very comfortable. I can barely hear the blade noise, and the wind noise at 145 kts is just a faint hiss. The mike really kills noise, and the usual S76 hum in the background is gone. Several people have remarked on how clear I sound.

Finally I don't have to take off the button on top of my cap, I can wear any sunglasses I like, and don't have the hot, heavy earseals clamping my head. Clarity Aloft has a nice-looking model, but at almost twice the price, I decided against it. Now my headset can fit in my pocket.

I'm not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or resellers in any way, except as a paying customer. There are several models available, and I think all would be acceptable.

Bose headset problem
 

Hi.

I just bought a used Bose headset, single plug and have some difficulties.

I dont know if it has a broken mic or if there is something else.
I have talked to Bose techincal support who told me that there might be a different mic witch does not work in the aircraft I am flying. (dynamic, electric)
Than I talked to the local aviation store who sells Bose headsets, and they said it should not make any difference if you have a dynamic mic or if you have a electric one.

The guy I bought it from used it on a B206, and I am flying R-22.
I checked with 2 of my friends who has Bose as well. And the microphone does not look the same. Can anyone help me?
This is a pic from the headset I have.
http://morten-bjerkeli.com/images/bose.JPG

And here's one from the Bose website.

http://morten-bjerkeli.com/images/bose2.jpg

Can someone tell me what kind of microphone I have, or why they look different?

Moving from a 206 to an R22 shouldn't cause a problem with mic impedances, you could verify this by trying the headset in another 206 if that's possible. There are some configuration dip switches for the Bose in the battery compartment but I forget if they relate to the microphone or not on your model, you could maybe check with the owners manual?

The microphone on a Bose is replaced as a unit with the cord and control box by removing the two screws at the base. The high impedance mike is smaller and has a profile like the end of an ironing board. The low impedance mike has a profile like a light bulb. If you attach a photo of your mike without the foamy end cover we'd be able to tell.

Most 206 are high-impedance, all R22 are.

http://morten-bjerkeli.com/images/div.jpg

You have a low-impedance microphone. The headset audio will work fine, but nobody will hear you talk in a high-impedance R22 intercom.

Lots of older helicopters such as the Bell mediums and Sikorsky S76A models that haven't been rewired still use low impedance. I think that many Europeans are still stuck on it too. You may be able to trade with someone.

If trade is not an option, what do i need to buy from Bose to make it work than?

You could try one of these!

http://www.bose.com/controller?event...mg_pilots&ck=0

Sennheiser HMDC 322 Vs. Bose X Any thoughts?
 

I am a student pilot getting ready to invest in my first helicopter headset and wondered if I could get some advise on what is a good choice in headsets with Active Noise Reduction. I have tried and love the Bose but have no experience with the Senn's. Can anyone help me?

Thanks

Limumark:hmm:

Sorry, haven't tried the Senns either, but the BoseX has ruined me from getting back into my helmet, even though they're not much protection for my little pinhead.

Peltor Headache
 

Anybody know where to get a Peltor headset comfort pad. I have seen one on Transair but ideally I was looking for the sheepskin type. I know there is a David Clark model but will it fit the Peltor?

Any help gratefully received.

Try these guys: Oregon Aero

linumark

I am kind of in the same situation. Did lots of research and talked to lots of people. The only thing I am sure of now is that people have there own preferences. For myself, because I fly R22 and R44 at the moment, I need an ANR headset with good passive protection too. Some of the R22's don't seem to accommodate ANR headsets. For that reason I bought the Sennheiser 372, which can also be used as a passive headset (25 db). It is for this reason that I don't like the Bose. I used them twice and walked away with painful ears, because it does not provide me with any passive protection. Others swear by the DC's and they are good, but I personally like the Sennheiser, specifically the new sennheisers. if you are tall, like me, the R22 will not give you enough headspace with the DC's (David Clarke).

My thougths only.

FS

Personally, I prefer the lightweight, in-the-ear headsets. They give more noise suppression than ANR headsets, and let me wear any cap and sunglasses I like, without the weight and heat of the domes, and they are cheaper than most ANR headsets. I wore regular dome headsets for a quarter of a century, and these are far better. There are at least 3 brands available - AuriComm, Clarity Aloft, and Lightspeed, and perhaps more. Google will give you the websites, and most retailers offer a 30-day money back guarantee, as do the manufacturers. My heavy headset is now in a bag in the closet, and is likely to remain there. :ok:

GLS Nightpilot

I am intrigued by these headsets you mentioned but unfortunately have not yet had the chance to test them. We can get the clarity aloft in the UK but far away from where I am, though. But will definately try them out when I get my hands on them. I was told that the clarity aloft will definately work on small helicopters too (connection type). Do they become any more uncomfortable when wearing on hot humid days than the conventional headsets?

FS

it doesn't get much more hot & humid than the GOM. That's where they really shine. I used to get skin infections around my ears from my headset, worn for hours on hot days, with the sweating that goes with it, trapped inside the domes. I have had no problems so far with my current headset, which is an AuriComm, BTW. It's almost half the price of the Clarity Aloft, and the main difference I see is the lack of cell phone or mp3 input, which is not at all important to me. They have a headset very similar to the Clarity Aloft. You should be able to order direct, or from one of the online dealers, regardless of which you choose. All offer a money-back guarantee.

I have a full set of Bose headsets in my heli. They are a great headset when they are working but unfortunately I have found they aren't very robust. One good knock or drop seems to cause wiring breakages or internal plug disconnections. No experience with the Sennheiser headsets.

Cheers,

CH :cool:

Never even seen the Senn's, used Bose for the past four years - 100% satisfied. Compared to any other headset I've used (many DC, Peltor, Telex, Lightspeed, Sigtronics) the Bose gives you the great hearing and microphone clarity no matter how noisy the intercom.

Helmed / Bose system
 

I have been looking for information on a flight helmed with a bose system
I do not know if it exist in the market.
Any information is apreciated.
Thanks
Felipe