A quality headset is one of the most important pieces of gear any pilot will own. And in the confines of a noisy piston, turboprop or helicopter cockpit, there’s really no excuse for skimping by choosing a headset lacking active noise-cancellation technology. Many of the top ANR headsets also have built-in Bluetooth capability, allowing users to pair the headset with a phone or their favorite audio. And of course, not all headsets are created equal in the all-important categories of durability and comfort, but these are all solid choices in those areas as well.
It’s not surprising that our three favorite headset brands — Bose, David Clark, and Lightspeed — are also the industry’s best-selling. Headsets from these manufacturers tend to be on the higher end of the pricing spectrum (for good reason), so if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to take a look at lower-tier options, which include several good headsets that cost hundreds less than the top-rated models, but which shouldn’t be overlooked just because they’re built by manufacturers that sell in lower volumes.
What the headsets from Bose, David Clark, and Lightspeed all have in common, however, is unrivaled build quality, exceptional customer support, and the very best in comfort and ANR quality, important considerations if you fly a lot or on long legs.
Here’s a rundown of the best ANR headsets your money can buy from each of the manufacturers that are active in this highly competitive market segment.
Quick Look: Best Noise Reduction Aviation Headsets
- Best for Sound Quality: Bose A30
- Best for Hybrid Noise Cancellation: DC One-X
- Best for Value: David Clark Pro-X2
- Best for Modern Aesthetics: FARO G3
- Best for Microphone Flexibility: Lightspeed Sierra
- Best for Lightweight: Lightspeed Zulu 4
- Best for High Quality-Materials: Faro Stealth 2 ANR
- Best for American Made Product: David Clark H10-13.4
- Best for Rechargeable Battery: Lightspeed Delta Zulu
- Best for Least Expensive: Rugged Air RA200
- Best for Non ANR Headset: Sigtronics S-45
Bose A30
Best for: Sound Quality
The Bose A30 is the newest version of the Bose ANR (active noise reduction) headset. Building upon the popularity of the A20 headset, the A30 features a reduction in weight, lighter clamping force, and an overall more comfortable feel than the previous version. The bluetooth capability allows for connectivity to devices in the cockpit, and the multiple plug options allow for extreme flexibility. They are comfortable with hats or sunglasses, Bose knocked this one out of the park. If you want to learn more, check out the full review of the Bose A30 headset.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA
- Weight: 14.2 ounces
- Warranty: Five years
- Plug type: Dual GA, LEMO six pin, U174
Price: $1,299
DC One-X
Best for: Hybrid Noise Cancellation
David Clark is a legendary name in pilot headsets. The company introduced the industry’s first noise-attenuating headset in 1975, and its products have long been recognized among aviators the world over for their pale-green ear domes and exceptional quality. The DC One-X is David Clark’s newest headset for general aviation pilots, with hybrid electronic noise cancellation that is as good as anything we’ve tested. One of the cool features of the DC One-X is that it folds up into a size that fits in the palm of your hand when not in use, allowing it to be tucked away into an easy-to-pack carrying case.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA
- Weight: 12.3 ounces
- Warranty: Five years
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $995
David Clark Pro-X2
Best for: Value
The David Clark Pro-X2 Series headset is an ultra-lightweight, on-the-ear headset engineered for superior comfort and performance. It’s the next-generation version of the popular DC Pro-X series. It features Hybrid Electronic Noise Cancellation (ENC) for exceptional active noise reduction and significantly reduces clamping pressure for extended wear. The Pro-X2 is rugged, collapsible for compact storage, and comes with a soft-sided headset bag. Non-Bluetooth models are also available with twin plug and XLR plug options.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA
- Weight: 7.5 ounces
- Warranty: David Clark five-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $865
FARO G3
Best for: Modern Aesthetics
Faro is another headset-maker that’s opting for the carbon-fiber look, though we’re not sure we’re completely sold on the big, gold metallic Faro logo under the clear coating (but at least you won’t have to worry about it wearing off). The G3 also isn’t as comfortable, nor does it offer the sound quality of the top ANR headsets we’ve tried, but it does boast among the lightest weight of any of the ANR headsets included here, weighing in at just 9 ounces, proving carbon-fiber construction isn’t only about a hip look — it’s the reduced weight these headsets offer that really matters, which we’re sure buyers will appreciate over the long run.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA
- Weight: 9 ounces
- Warranty: Faro 3-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: 679.99
Lightspeed Sierra
Best for: Microphone Flexibility
Lightspeed bills the Sierra ANR headset as its “value-priced” model, and we agree. This is a headset that sells for less than competing headsets that, quite frankly, aren’t as good. Built-in Bluetooth capability, Lightspeed’s ComPriority feature and compatibility with the FlightLink playback app for iPhone and iPad add premium features to this budget headset, which also features plush ear seals and sturdy construction that will hold up to abuse and last for years. Another nice feature is the ability to swap the microphone from one side to the other.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA
- Weight: 16 ounces
- Warranty: Lightspeed five-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $749
Lightspeed Zulu 4
Best for: Lightweight
Lightspeed’s Zulu 4 builds on the reputation of the Zulu series with refined ergonomics and premium features in a package that weighs just 14.6 ounces. It features dual Bluetooth connections, advanced microphone noise suppression, and redesigned ear seals that accommodate sunglasses and headwear more comfortably. With ANR performance rivaling top-tier models and a seven-year warranty, it’s a top lightweight choice for serious GA pilots who want modern tech without bulk.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA batteries or optional rechargeable battery pack
- Weight: 14.6 ounces
- Warranty: Lightspeed seven-year
- Plug type: Dual GA, LEMO six pin, U174
Price: $1,099
Faro Stealth 2 ANR
Best for: High-quality materials
Faro Stealth 2 ANR headphones are designed for pilots looking for headsets that are as durable as they are affordable. They utilize plush leather ear seals, a stainless steel headband, and carbon-composite ear cups. With up to 52 dB of noise reduction and full Bluetooth functionality, this headset performs well above its price point. It’s a strong option for pilots who prioritize material quality but don’t want to pay Bose prices.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Two AA batteries
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Warranty: Faro three-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $469.95
David Clark H10-13.4
Best for: American-made product
A classic in the aviation community, the David Clark H10-13.4 is one of the most popular passive headsets in general aviation. It’s known for legendary reliability and comfort, featuring gel ear seals, a soft double-foam headpad, and a noise-canceling M-7A mic. Made in the USA, this headset has a loyal following of pilots who swear by David Clarks’ simplicity and rugged performance.
- Bluetooth: No
- Battery: None
- Weight: About 16.5 ounces
- Warranty: David Clark five-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $359.95
Lightspeed Delta Zulu
Best for: Rechargeable battery
The Lightspeed Delta Zulu is a top-tier ANR headset with a variety of features that take it a step above the competition. Among these features is utilization of a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Another of the Delta Zulu’s more unique features is its integrated carbon monoxide (CO) detector, providing real-time alerts to the wearer. Pilots can also fine-tune audio settings using Lightspeed’s mobile app. Between the safety enhancements, audio clarity, and robust construction, it’s one of the most advanced GA headsets on the market.
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion (with AA battery backup option)
- Weight: 14.9 ounces
- Warranty: Lightspeed seven-year
- Plug type: Dual GA, LEMO six pin, U174
Price: $1,299
Rugged Air RA200
Best for: Least expensive
The Rugged Air RA200 is a no-nonsense, passive headset that delivers solid performance at a very accessible price. This headset offers its wearers 24 dB of passive noise reduction with a stainless steel headband construction, gel ear seals, and a flexible mic boom with an electret noise-canceling mic. It’s a favorite among student pilots and renters due to its affordability and decent audio clarity. If you’re just getting started in aviation or need a reliable backup, this is a smart pick.
- Bluetooth: No
- Battery: None
- Weight: About 15 ounces
- Warranty: Rugged Air three-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $93.99
Sigtronics S-45
Best for: Non-ANR headset
The Sigtronics S-45 is an affordable passive headset option for those who prefer traditional over-ear designs without the added weight or complexity of ANR. With gel ear seals, an ultra-soft air pillow headband, and a proven M-80 noise-canceling electret microphone, the S-45 performs well in loud environments like piston-engine cockpits. It’s built in the USA and comes with a generous five-year warranty, making it an excellent non-ANR choice for general aviation pilots.
- Bluetooth: No
- Battery: None
- Weight: About 14.4 ounces
- Warranty: Sigtronics five-year
- Plug type: Dual GA
Price: $223
FAQ
What are the key features of high-end noise-reduction aviation headsets?
High-end models, such as those from Bose, David Clark, and Lightspeed, are known for their excellent build quality, strong customer support, superior comfort, and advanced active noise reduction (ANR) capabilities.
Are active noise reduction (ANR) headsets always the best choice?
ANR headsets are generally preferred due to their superior noise reduction. However, comfortable and lightweight passive headsets can also be a viable option for some pilots, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
Do these headsets offer connectivity options?
Many top ANR headsets come with built-in Bluetooth, allowing for convenient connectivity with phones or other audio devices.
Why is a quality headset important for pilots?
A high-quality headset is crucial for pilots, especially in noisy cockpits, as it significantly enhances communication clarity and reduces fatigue. The article strongly suggests that compromising on active noise-cancellation technology is not recommended.
What other factors should be considered when choosing a headset?
Beyond noise reduction, durability and comfort are important considerations. The headsets recommended in the article excel in these areas, ensuring a reliable and comfortable experience for pilots.
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