Entry Level Headset

GrantHubbell

New Member
The time has come where I have to purchase a headset for flying. I have a few hours, so I need something basic. I'd like it under ~ $200. Anybody have any suggestions? I found a few on ebay and they are cheap, but I dont really know what is good for a headset, like the # of db. I will mostly fly 172s and Pipers.

Thanks in advance for the help.

Good Day
 
Does your FBO have rental headsets available? If so, I would recommend renting the el-cheapos from them and saving up for a good set. Don't waste your money on a cheap set since you'll be buying a better set later anyway.

My opinion.
 
I agree with Steve 100%. Don't be too cheap because it's your hearing that we're talking about here, and when you're 40 you'll want it. Believe me man, I'm only 22 and I've got a few problems with my hearing already from drumming and flying. You don't want to go through that crap, so spend a few extra bucks and get a decent ANR set. You'll thank us later.
 
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dont waste your money on el-cheapos, get yourself a good ANR.


pretty much any of the brand name ones won't do you wrong. DC's, lightspeed, peltor, Telex.
 
There are several unknowns, but consider this. If you aren't currently in a position to buy an expensive ANR headset ($300+++), and the rental headsets available aren't that great either you could go ahead and buy an el cheapo PNR unit with the intention of using that headset later on when you get your PPL and take passengers.

Sadly it comes down to money and your hearing. And it's hard to buy your hearing back.


Mike
 
How about if the flight school has headsets to use. Would you still recommend to rent a pair from the FBO?
 
Since I didn't have the money to get an ANR I bought a PCA 6T to get me through training. As mentioned previously, my hearing will probably suffer; however, when I become a CFI I plan on getting a high quality headset. Yes, some will give the argument that my hearing is priceless. That I admit, but hell, its gonna go sometime....
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As an added benefit I'll have this headclamping headset in the case that I need to take friends/family in the air.
If you have the money tho, jump on the ANR bandwagon.
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What about the Sigtronics at Sportys?

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That's an expensive PNR headset (the description doesn't seem to indicate ANR)!

Check out Yahoo! Shopping. Search for "Telex ANR" or whatever manufacturer you want and there are actually some ANR units in the high $200s. Be sure to sort by price and don't get too exited over the bogus stuff that comes up in the results.


Mike
 
In effect it cancels out the wavelengths of the "bad" noises.

Thats the 2 year olds definition in case any two year olds are around....
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Pick up a used David Clark H10-13.4 on Ebay or something. They're comfortable, indestructible, fairly light, and keep the noise out just fine. Their customer service is awesome as well. If you're really worried about your hearing, put earplugs under your headset. Personally, I've never used an ANR headset that was worth the money. I think they all suck, Bose included. Just my opinion, of course.
 
I second the DC 13.4. If you absolutely have to go passive, it's a good one. Although you can get a Lightspeed ANR for not much more. The prices on ANRs are falling through the floor as more brands come into the marketplace. I think Marv Golden has one for around $250-300 right now.
 
I got a great deal on a gently used David Clark H10-13X on eBay. Definitely a good investment.
 
Get a CHEAP mofo, and when you get the money buy a ANR upgrade kit from marv Golden. They really work well! my buddy did the ANR swap to his cheap ass pare of flightcom's, they are every bit as good as my lightspeeds
 
I bought this headset from Marv Golden for my flight training. Cheapest ANR headset I've found ($247 including shipping) and actually pretty good for the price. Comms are much, much clearer when I hit the button to turn on the ANR.
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I've always had in the back of my mind to "upgrade" my headsets if/when I become a CFI, but in 8 months of use so far I've never had a problem with this set, and they seem pretty durable. The same can't be said of my roommate's $1000 Bose X's which he's had to send back to the factory twice.
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I second the Marv Golden suggestion... My set is still going strong after 300 hours.... Solid customer service as well....
 
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