Clarity Aloft Classic Headset

After using mine for the past four months, I just bought a second Clarity Aloft headset for my wife.What I like:1. The plug-type headphones do a fantastic job of attenuating outside noise (I fly a noisy propeller-driven aircraft). I would dare to say the noise reduction is comparable to leading ANR headsets.2. No batteries! I think this is the biggest complaint about ANR headsets (unless you're lucky enough to have a power-over-intercom system).3. No clamp. Especially good for the ladies that don't want to mess up their hair. I'm bald, so it's not as much of an issue for me :P I do however, wear glasses, which can be a problem when trying to get a good seal on the ear cups of traditional headsets. Also, I don't get headaches during long flights anymore.4. The case! VERY sturdy and protects the headsets well (and now included with the purchase of the headset).5. Comes with a set of replacement tips (if I remember correctly, six pairs), plus large and small size tips to try different sizes.6. Aux in and volume control. Nice to have.The 'meh's:1. Three year warranty. Not as good as David Clark, but if you buy it with a good credit card that has warranty extender, you can get four years of coverage.What I don't like:1. Takes getting used to. Don't get me wrong, the headset is actually very comfortable (it just takes a little time to get used to it).2. Tips need to be replaced. Each set is good for about 30 days of use. Doesn't seem to be any way to get around this one. I think the replacement tips are reasonably priced, but some have objected to the cost.3. The tip attachement points are made of plastic. This can be a problem for those who like to "torque down" on stuff, so be aware. I haven't had any problems with this, yet. You have to be very careful when compressing the tips before insertion, ensuring you squeeze instead of roll.4. A little more fragile than conventional headsets. But, as long as you don't throw them around and put them back in the case when you're done flying, you should be okay.Because of the unique design, I think it's the type of headset you'll either love or hate. Hope this helps others who are on the fence.

First Ill say.....something positive,,,,the design of the Pro and Classics are great if you fly all day.....light weight and comfortable.So I bought my first pair flying the 737 years ago.....these worked great until one day I can't hear out of one ear. No problem, things fail....After multiple calls and emails to Clarity Aloft...they reluctantly agreed to repair the item under warranty......I sent them in.....3 weeks later I get them back......and they charge me to fix a " broken wire. I pay for the ride there and back on shipping. I am very careful with my headsets.....they were very idigant about it said it tested fine on their bench???? Ok I thought maybe its me. Ill try again, but the fragile state of these headsets will not hold up under prolonged professional use.I have had three yes "3" C/A headsets the classic and Pro and they all fail from the poor design of the left and right earpiece. I fly the 737 daily and 50% of the time the other pilot or act can't hear my mike I practically have to swallow it or push it in my mouth to be heard. Ive sent them in twice since I bought the Pro's one time it took multiple phone calls to retrieve it form the company...I think they build them in their garage?????? I want to give them another shot but after 10 yrs and three headsets with the same design problems.....im over the Clarity Alofts, if your a general or rec pilot using these on a weekend they will work. But the hard core airline daily use is to demanding for the flimsy wire and sub par microphone. If the customer service were better I wouldn't mind the poor quality but they offer no loaners, long turn around times to repair...and they will fail. Save your $500 and go with Bose until Clarity Aloft figures out a new design and stops rebadging the classic under a new name.

Went from a cheapo set of "Pilot" brand head-sqeezers to these. Such a relief. No more headaches, no more fatigue. Awesome product! The foam ear-plug style works great, but takes a little getting used to. Speakers and microphone are excellent for audio quality.4 stars because the ear bud leads seem kind of flimsy and it seems that you have to be very careful with the headset. No problems thus far though.