Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/739629
COMTAC Iv Headset are usually available in headband configuration, but they also come with neckband-style that makes it more convenient to wear them under a helmet. For the most modern helmets with accessory rails on the sides, there are dedicated mounts (e.g. ARC or SARA) which enable to convert headset as well as dedicated rail-mounted hearing protection headsets (e.g. RAC-1). A significant advantage of headset is the ability of voice communication and use of communication devices, very good noise canceling and exceptional comfort (in case of more expensive models, especially with gel pads). They may be used by almost anybody since they do not cause irritation or the unpleasant feel like in case of earplugs. Disadvantages – in comparison to more basic devices – include, most of all, the price and weight – headset weigh from about 330 g (the simplest versions) to over 500 g (with communication wire and gel pads). Headsets may also collide with some of the helmets (especially the old ones K-pot style). And, what is more, they heat your ears – it's quite a cool feature in winter, but in summer it may make you tired... I really recommend them –the offer is wide enough, so everybody will find a model which will suit their needs. I really advise against using airsoft crap from Far East in real life. They have low lifetime, mediocre quality, and low- end electronics – sound quality may be low and, by the way, the electronic system is to secure our hearing... HYBRID SOLUTIONS To be honest, I know one such device – Peltor ComTac IV, so original it should be mentioned. ComTac IV features a design that does not fit any of the types mentioned in the foreword. It combines features of headset with ear cups and in-ear plugs. The base for Peltor ComTac IV is a headband-type headset with horseshoe- shaped half-shell ear muffs attached. They only cover the area around the auricle, but do not cover the auricle itself. It eliminates the most serious defect of full-muff headsets, which is excessive heating, especially on warmer days, that leads to sweating and fatigue. Muffs are plastic on the outside and foam padded on the inside, for better comfort and decrease of sweating. Foam can be easily replaced – the kit includes a pair of spares, while separate gel pads are available. As in all of the ComTacs, the controls are on the left – two rubber buttons used as On/Off switch, as well as to adjust amplification. Headset automatically switches off after two hours of complete silence – power saving feature. On both ear cups, there are four sockets (two per each) – one for microphone (it may be attached on the left or right side) and the other to connect speakers which are in-ear plugs. On the left there is also the waterproof battery compartment (in the upper side), closed with flap. HEARING PROTECTION