Where to go to try on headsets

[Rosco99]

I am going to be starting my training soon, and I am researching headsets. I would love to be able to try a few sets on and see how they feel, but I have no idea what stores would have these headsets available to try on. I think the closest one to me is the Bose outlet store in Destin FL, but other than that does anyone have any suggestions?

[Little Red 22]

If you're in Florida, go to the Sun'n Fun EAA Event in April. All the major headset mfrs will be there. See link.

 

 

http://www.sun-n-fun.org/FlyIn/Exhibitors/2014Exhibitors.aspx

[gary-mike]

Heli expo, that's where I decided on the light speed I bought. If you can't make it to California next week, the expo will come to you in Florida next year.

[HeliNomad]

I really hope LightSpeed will have their newest headset at HAI. I placed my orders like 3 months ago and they keep delaying shipment. Maybe we will be able to play with it at HAI! I'm ready for an upgrade from the Zulu 2.

[Rosco99]

Thanks! I don't have the time to wait a year. LOL. I am going to head to the Bose store in Destin to see how I like those.

 

Helinomad, you don't like the Zulu 2? Those and the A20s are the ones that I am torn between.

[Azhigher]

Ask people at a flight school?

[HeliNomad]

Thanks! I don't have the time to wait a year. LOL. I am going to head to the Bose store in Destin to see how I like those.

 

Helinomad, you don't like the Zulu 2? Those and the A20s are the ones that I am torn between.

No I love the Zulu 2...I think they are awesome. But the PFX are the first headset I've seen that has specific algorithms for helicopter noise. I pre ordered only one for my self but I'm curious to learn more about that at HAI. I also really like the wireless integration with the FlightLink software, something today is accomplished with a cable and the Zulu 2.

[gary-mike]

I tried the Bose and the Zulu last year at the expo, the Bose with the hinged bridge wasn't as comfortable to me, add the extra cost and no notable difference in sound quality, sold me on the Zulu 2. I hope to check out the new PFX this year.

[WolftalonID]

At my school several instructors and the owner would allow some students to trial run a headset before putting out the money.

 

I am like monk sorta.... My mic, my mouth, ewwww if you touch it.... So I don't lend mine out, and didnt trial run one, just bought it.

 

Something to point out on the new Zulu PFX....takes four batteries not just two. You will want to add more batteries to your kneeboard or pockets now for that horrid mid-flight failure of the ANR.

 

I guess it may need it, but rather sucky that it takes so many.

[cburg]

Several years ago I contacted (some at SNF) the major headset companies. I was flying an open cockpit airplane with a stubby windscreen that had horrible wind buffeting noise. I explained I could not find an ANR headset that would work. They all said that I could buy and try, then return if it didn’t work. I did. I tried around 10 headsets out. None of them worked. The wind buffeting, as they all said, was the killer. Some chirped, and others made various funny sounds. I want back to passive with ear plugs…still the best IMO for this type application.

 

Inside a machine, probably any would work, but note…they are not equal and perform very differently in various aircraft. Don’t assume it will work. Be sure to discuss their return policy.