Clarity Aloft Headset

[DaneP]

I bought a TSO'd version of the Clarity Aloft headset to use at work and I was very dissatisfied with it. The first one they sent me did not work on the MD-80. A replacement did work, but I found that after a few hours it was uncomfortable to wear, as it chafed the back of my ears. I wasn't really all that impressed with the quality either, the plugs look like something that came from radio shack, they did not have molded strain reliefs for the cord but were assembled with multiple layers of shrink tubing. At the price range they are selling this thing (about $700.00) I would expect much better. The second headset is headed back and I was able to negotiate to get most of the money back that spent buying and then sending headsets back and forth, but I don't believe that I'll be spending any more money on a Clarity Aloft headset.

[brianwallis]

Tso'd version? I did not know there was such a thing... you sure you bought the clarity aloft headsets? Or is this a look-a-like? They sell for 500 ... not 700... and I'm not sure how they chaff your head... as they have a band that tightens them. Good luck with whatever you bought...
Best
Brian

[Walt]

I traded my standard ones in at Osh for the TSO version and really like them. They are a tad lighter and more comfortable around "my" ears. I'll never go back to headsets but like anything else they may not be right for everybody

[Steve]

The rep at OSH explained the TSO'd version has all the electrical components in one box and is somewhat lighter than the standard version by a few grams. She got kinda quiet when I noted that doesn't seem to justfy the extra $$$.
My guess is it costs $150 more because of the FAA certification process.
Still lovin' the standard version,
Steve

[mark manda]

I like mine but a couple things. I guess I will need to change plugs about every month. One is squeezed too much already and it could be wax causing it too.

One side has popped off twice while reaching for them; minor ordeal.

I didn't roll them up tight enough, blasted off out of Compton and couldn't hear a thing but engine and wind noise; bad move on my part.

They are the way to go for comfort with a ball cap, I was shocked at how good it felt the first time I wore a cap.

Minor gripe. The cord is on the opposite side of the headset mike so the cord stretches across my body; if that makes sense.

Also, I'll have to check again with new plugs (they come with six pair IIRC) but they are not good enough at 190 kts. in a noisy airplane. The Bose are better. (compared yesterday) But like I said it might just be the worn out plugs.

I'm not parting with them, I really like them. Also the head clearance is excellent.

FWIW

[Tbone]

purchased the Clarity Aloft TSO'd set and have used them about 10 hours. I love the light feel of them on my head but they seem a little harsh on the sidetone when I key up. Maybe a mic-muff or something. They did hurt behind my ear on the boom side but will adjust for a better fit. It would be nice if the leads to your ears were just a little bit longer.

[RV7Guy]

I'm noted before that I love my CA's. Getting the ear plugs in correctly really helps along with mic adjustment. Also coordinating the volume control on the set and on the panel is key for good overall sound.

My only real gripe is the volume control is close to the plugs. I have my jacks on the support between the roll bar and baggage bulkhead on my 7. That is nice for keeping the cords out of the way but very difficult to get to the volume control.

When I do my annual (condition inspection for the puriests) I'm going to send them in and have them move the volume control box closer to the set.

FYI, my neighbor is pilot for a major carrier based in the Southwest and said they were considering buying the CA's for their fleet. He already uses them and can no longer fly with a regular headset!!

[llane]

Have not used the Bose since getting the Clarity Aloft. When leaving Osh this year in a 182 I swapped the Bose and the Clarity Aloft a couple of times.

Same noisy environment and CA wins every time.

[Gary Bricker]

The owner of QT developed CA. That's all I can say.

[rich s]

Love my (cub yellow) QT's