In case anyone is interested, I and a few other pilots on the base, had the opportunity to test one out recently. I was very impressed, although that sentiment was not unanimous. The biggest complaint was that the side tone was quite low. I found it was just a matter of getting used to it. Everyone did agree that it was very comfortable, especially in the hot weather (Thailand). No sweaty sticky seals around the ears, these ears cups are made of leather. Very little clamping force and very light weight as well. One of the things I found the nicest was that when I put my sunglasses on, there was no change to the sound level like with a David Clark. The pilots who tried it in both the 61 and the 76 found that in the 76 the ANR was even more noticable. This was mostly due to the fact that we fly the 61 with the windows open and the wind noise is evident. This thing is strictly an active (ANR) headset, it has almost no passive noise protection. But all in all I was convinced and have placed my order. The company (CHI) picking up half the tab does make the decision a bit easier. Have a safe summer.
