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David Clark H10-13.4 Headset Review

David Clark H10-13.4 Mono Headset

In the market for a headset? Consider the David Clark H10-13.4

A headset will be your first purchase as a pilot, and it is very important! Consider this set for it’s unbeatable value and comfort for the price.

This is one of the most popular and best selling mono headsets out there – and for good reason.  If you are considering purchasing your first headset, chances are that many people have recommended the David Clark brand. It is one of the most popular headset brands, particularly for the first time purchase, but also good for commercial aviators.  Some flight schools use them as their rental sets.  There is a good reason for that – these headsets stand up well to heavy use and abuse and are very reliable.

Best in Comfort – Minimizing Fatigue

The H10-13.4 model is one of the most comfortable headsets out there, due to it’s very heavily padded contour head pad, and gel ear seals. This model is mono and features single volume control with low profile knobs, and are made in the USA.  The stereo version of this headset will have a control knob for each ear.

The headset also features a reversible boom noise-cancelling microphone which is mounted for placement on either the right or left side.  You can easily swing it from side to side depending if you want to the mic on your left or right.  The advantage to this is that it will keep the cord away from going across your body and being in the way if your plug in is on the opposite side.  For example if you are sitting in the right seat instead of left simply swing the mic around and the cord will be on your right side, minimizing clutter.

The head pad is large and comfortable.  The ear seals are large and seal very well against the ears.  They are covered with a glossy rubber that can get sweaty during flights in hot summer weather, but David Clark provides fabric ear pad covers at less than $10.  The headset has a 5 foot straight cord and has dual plugs for fixed wing aircraft. More expensive headsets will have better soundproofing and lower weight, but keep in mind are 2 to 3 times more expensive.

Deluxe Gel ear seals provide excellent noise reduction. Image from David Clark website.
Deluxe Gel ear seals provide excellent noise reduction. Image from David Clark website.

Great passive noise reduction for the price (around $300). Excellent headset, great clarity!  Has good noise reduction. Even though it’s one of David Clark’s lightest headsets, it is a little on the heavy side when compared with premium sets – however keep in mind the price difference.   You really do forget you are wearing it.  Other headsets that are a little bit cheaper are simply too tight.  Excellent durability and customer service from the manufacturer.  The headset is very comfortable, provides an effective seal against noise, was not objectionably hot nor heavy during summertime, and allowed wearing sunglasses without any problems. The pillow top spreads the headset weight on your head so you won’t really notice it’s even on, which helps reduce fatigue especially on longer flights.

When you purchase the set, make sure you order a carrying case, and one might also order some extra ear cushions.

I’ve noticed that after about 3 months of use the mic cover has a tendency of separating.  I recommend to “zip tie” the microphone cover and you will have no problems and will be very happy with the headset.

I am very satisfied with the level of noise reduction. This David Clark is comfortable, doesn’t pinch the head, and performs perfectly.  Very high level of performance particularly for the price. Great value!


Features:

  • Super Soft, Double Foam Head Pad
  • New Comfort gel, undercut ear seals
  • Certified Noise Reduction Rating – 23 dB
  • Reduced headband force
  • Universal Flex Boom for perfect microphone placement
  • Exclusive M-7A, the most advanced noise-cancelling microphone available
  • Low-profile volume control knob with detent settings
  • Molded cord assembly made to exceptional pull and flex standards
  • FAA TSO Approved C57 Cat. B and C58a
  • Exceeds RTCA/DO-214 Standards
  • Weight (without cord assembly): 16.5 oz.
  • 5 Year Warranty

Advantages:

  • More comfortable than headsets in this price range, and excellent fit
  • Excellent manufacturer’s 5 year warranty
  • Very durable

Disadvantages:

  • Even though it’s David Clark’s lightest set, it is a little on the heavy side
  • Not an Active Noise Reduction (ANR) headset

 

Technical Specifications (Provided by the Manufacturer on the David Clark Website):

Earphone Type: Dynamic Noise-Canceling Mic: M-7A Amplified Electret
Earphone Impedance: 150 ohms(300 each; wired in parallel) Mic Impedance: 50 ohms +/- 20%
Earphone Sensitivity: 90 dB SPL on flat plate coupler, re 1mW input @ 1KHz Mic Sensitivity: 400mV RMS ±6dB into 150 ohm load @ 1kHz for 114dB SPL input
Earphone Frequency Response: 200-5,500 Hz Mic Freq Response: 300Hz–3.5KHz per RTCA DO 214
Earphone Plug: PJ-055 (.25″ phone plug) Mic Plug: PJ-068 (.206″ phone plug)
Boom Type: Universal Flex Cord: 5 ft.Straight
Headpad/Hardware: Super-Soft, Double-Foam Headpad,Lightweight Hardware Weight/Headset Only: 16.5 oz.

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