Flightcom 4DX Headset
A review from a PPL Mania reader
Added: 10 July 2005

Having read a number of accolades for the Flightcom 4DX headset, not least of which was an accolade from a pilot who regularly wore a pair for 7 hours, I purchased 2 pairs for use by myself and family members who fly with me. The web shop price was £75 per pair inclusive of VAT (a good saving over list of about £50 for the pair)

So far I've only used them for two short trips. They seem to function well in terms of audio quality (both microphone and earpieces) but I have to question whether anyone could wear them for any extended period. Worn by my son and I for less than 30 minutes at a time, we both commented on the tightness of the headset and its tendency to compress parts of the outer ear (which may not be helped by the cotton covers that were supplied).

Perhaps they will "break in" over a period of time, but I would advise anyone contemplating the purchase of a new headset to forget about saving a few pounds by buying on the web and visit a pilot shop where you can try on a selection of models for comfort. Only if you've tried a set and are happy with the model should you consider purchasing by mail order.

Other than comfort, they seem to be robust in design and build. As already mentioned, I'm quite happy with the audio and speech quality, and I find the one volume control much more sensible than two (unless you have an ear problem where one needs more volume than the other). There is a useful mono/stereo switch and the connectors are standard jack plugs which popped straight into the sockets found in all the light aircraft that I've flown.

A good economy set of headphones, but I would recommend trying the headset for comfort before you buy.

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