Which aviation headset to choose for a beginner pilot?

Soon to be a pilot or newly certified? Now is the time to start gearing up. And among your first purchases, the headset is a must-have. But which aviation headset should you choose for a beginner pilot? How do you navigate through the numerous references, ranges, and options? Should I invest in a sophisticated product right away, or start with something simpler? Here are a few recommendations to help you choose.

Passive or ANR Headset?

The first question to ask is: passive headset or active noise reduction (ANR) headset? Let’s recall the basics: a headset allows you to communicate via radio. And to facilitate this communication, your equipment will also serve the role of reducing ambient noise. In other words: you’ll hear less of the engine hum and better hear your counterpart.
This is where the distinction between the two main categories of aviation headsets is made. A passive headset will reduce noise through the simple filter of the ear pad. An ANR headset – for Active Noise Reduction – will add an electronic system in the ear cups to further enhance sound quality and protect you from the discomfort of a noisy cockpit.
Of course, this is very tempting! But is it the best option for a beginner pilot? Not so sure… Many instructors advise against ANR for less experienced aviators. The advantage of the passive headset is twofold: on one hand, it allows you to become familiar with the variations in engine noise; on the other hand, its simplicity can be appreciated when you still need to concentrate on the many controls on your dashboard.
Others, however, prefer to start directly with an active headset, which provides more audio comfort, especially if your airplane is very noisy.

Affordable yet Durable Aviation Headsets

That’s the basic information. But there’s still a wide variety of choices, including a wide price range and many possible options.
If you want to invest minimally until you’re sure you’ll be flying regularly, you can opt for entry-level passive noise-reduction headsets. You’ll need to budget around 150 euros for a light and already comfortable headset.
For example, we offer the Pilot Communications headset for 145 euros, or the Flightcom for 170 euros. Small and durable, they ensure good communication while keeping you connected to the hum of your engine.

Top-Quality Aviation Headsets

Entry-level isn’t enough for your standards? For an additional 100 to 200 euros, you can get into higher-quality passive headsets. For example, the Echelon 20 at 320 euros is already very efficient and offers a good value for money.
Or consider the flagship of this type of pilot headsets: the iconic David Clark H10-13.4 at 429 euros (which is also available in a pack with the carrying case). Iconic among pilots, it is the best-selling headset in the world. Its success comes from its long lifespan and robustness: an investment for several decades!
Why invest in something solid if you’re planning to switch to an active headset as an experienced pilot? You’ll have it as a backup for a copilot or passenger, and it will remain an essential part of your accessory kit.

Active Noise Reduction with Confidence

If you feel confident enough to start with an active headset, or if your airplane is really too noisy, we recommend heading towards the ranges priced around 600 to 800 euros. You’ll find entry-level options for less, but the noise reduction won’t be as effective.
For 589 euros, the Flightcom D90ANR offers undeniable flight comfort, just like its counterpart from Lightspeed, the Sierra, which we’re currently offering for 848 euros… Now’s the time to take advantage of it!

High-End ANR Headsets

Of course, the higher the price, the more impressive the noise reduction will be. And the more you practice piloting, the more you’ll want to treat yourself to sophisticated and high-end ANR headsets. Materials, ergonomics, and technology make the difference, as does the ability to connect peripherals or adjust audio settings.
You’ll then eye two gems: the Zulu 3 from Lightspeed and the Bose A20, often compared due to their outstanding performance.
The first one is currently priced at 1098 euros.
The Bose A20 is available for 1329.95 euros. You can explore this little marvel from every angle in our latest video.

Another headset from Lightspeed has recently emerged with new technologies (carbon monoxide detector, audio adjustment), which is now the most recent and sophisticated headset: the Delta Zulu.

You now have the key elements to make a good choice for your first aviation headset. Whether passive or ANR, other models from the best brands are also available in our online store.