![]() If there’s a big pilot shop near you, you might be able to try their fit on your head. Like all headset options, the only way to really know a pair of Lightspeed Zulu 3s is by trying them on for a test. Some pilots find them more comfortable than the Bose A20s or the David Clark One-X. They’re very well built and durable, with excellent ANR. They aren’t the most expensive, but they aren’t cheap, either. In the end, the Lightspeed Zulu 3 has more in common with other high-end headset options than different. It’s just one sign of how seriously the company takes the task of building a hearty headset that will stand the test of time. Lightspeed offers an industry-leading seven-year warranty on the Zulu 3. As you might expect, some people prefer the Bose, and others prefer the Lightspeed. Since they are different technologies, they add a different quality to the sound you do hear. Lightspeed has mastered its ANR technology, but it’s nearly impossible to say how it stacks up directly compared to the Bose. Headsets without ANR are said to be “passive.” As a result, they are typically much heavier and much more uncomfortable to wear for any lengthy period of time. This enables headset makers to make their sets lighter and have less clamping pressure. ANRĪctive noise reduction (ANR) uses an active system inside the headset to eliminate more noise. The app also provides a scratchpad for jotting down clearances and notes. You’ll never need to ask to repeat a clearance again, and students will love the ability to replay what they learned during the flight. You can playback intercom and radio transmissions from your entire flight. The first component is a full-time flight recorder. The app combines two unique features that are great for every pilot, from student to professional. So if you fly with an iPad, you’ll definitely want to check this app out before making your headset decision. The A20 features flat seals, whereas the Zulu 3 has a curved surface for a better fit.Ī unique feature of the Bluetooth-enabled Lightspeed headsets is their proprietary FlightLink app for Apple or Android devices. One interesting note is that the fit of the Zulu 3’s earpieces is more molded to the side of your head than the A20s. In the end, the only real way to tell which will be more comfortable for your head is to try each one on. For reference, the Bose A20s weigh 12 ounces, so the Bose wins-but the numbers are very close. The Zulu 3 is made to be lightweight, coming in at only 14.6 ounces. So, being made of metal, how does the Lightspeed compare once it’s mounted on top of your noggin’? Most pilots agree–it’s pretty close to the experience that the Bose provides. Metal parts make a lot of sense for pilots looking to use their headset for years down the road.Īnother sign of Lightspeed’s excellent build quality is the Kevlar-wrapped cord that won’t kink or chafe. All of that plastic keeps the weight down and makes a comfortable headset. That’s not to say that the A20 can’t take a beating or isn’t well designed. This contrasts with the A20, which is mostly made of plastic. Once you pick up a Zulu 3, one thing becomes apparent-it’s robustly built of all metal parts. There are plenty of reasons to pick the Lightspeed beyond just saving a few bucks, but let’s not kid around-most people buy it because the Bose seems a little too expensive. But its price is above the $1,000 mark, making a few hundred dollars of savings an important factor in your decision. ![]() The Bose is often considered the flagship headset to have among GA pilots. Being able to wear a pair all day long, five or six days a week, is a big deal.Īnything you can do to remain alert in the cockpit and reduce your tiredness is worth its weight in gold. Students often can get by with a pair of inexpensive passive noise reduction headsets to get started.īy the time they are in the cross country phase, they’ll often notice that their headset’s noise or fit is bothering them.įull-time professionals, especially flight instructors, know the benefits of good headsets. But they also improve safety and reduce pilot fatigue.Īirplanes are noisy places, especially light singles and twins. Everyone knows that headsets make communicating easier-both inside the cockpit and over the radios. Headsets are more important and more complicated than many pilots give them credit for. So how does it stack up? Why Having a Great Headset is Important So naturally, it draws comparisons with the other “Cadillac” of the headset world-the Bose A20. It does everything well, is built to last, and is exceptionally comfortable. The Zulu 3 is an excellent, high-quality choice for pilots of all skill levels. Both feature ANR, Bluetooth, and sleek styling for all-day comfort. The company’s present lineup includes only two models of headsets, their flagship Zulu 3 and the slightly less expensive Sierra. Today, that technology is more or less ubiquitous.
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