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In its continuing product development efforts, Sigtronics Corporation recently introduced its “8 Series” of noise-attenuating headsets. After flying the S-58 headset, one might call the new headset the “Super 8” series. The quality of communication the S-58 provides is without question. It mutes the ambient noise well, thanks to the gel-filled ear seals that work even when you're wearing glasses.
Sigtronics says it's engineered protection against radio frequency and electromagnetic interference (RFI and EMI) into the headset's components, rather than using shielded cables. I'll have to take the company's word on that, but ATC said the words it received through the headset's noise-canceling electret microphone were crisp and clear. The microphone is mounted on the end of a flexible boom that stays put and rotates for wear on the right or left side.
The microphone's “Ultrafoam” windscreen seems to do a good job. With the muff barely touching my lips, I was able to turn down the intercom's voice-activation sensitivity a bit. As a result, I didn't hear the “pop” I sometimes get when the blast of breath carrying my words “startles” the intercom's voice-activation circuit to life. (Nor did it pick up my heavy breathing as I challenged myself with a gusting, variable crosswind.)
The S-58 also gives hassle-free communication thanks to several nice features. For example, the earcup mounted volume control knob is large enough to manipulate with gloves on (and gloves are a standard piece of equipment for Midwest winter flying). And the connectors that are molded onto the end of the “stop-break” cords are nickel-plated brass, so you don't have to “buff” the plugs to remove any unseen or visible tarnishing that can result in a less than perfect connection.
Comfort is an important feature of any headset, and the S-58 does well in this area. It weighs a mere 11.9 ounces, and the new ergonomic head cushion didn't cause any hot spots during a two-hour flight. The S-58 also is an attractive headset, with textured ear cups in Sigtronics’ trademark blue and non-glare, powder-coated black headband and hardware. (Sigtronics also offers a small/child headband.) I especially like this feature because the headset didn't reflect dancing bands of sunlight, which I find distracting. Overall, the headset fulfills a pilot's communication needs well.
Made entirely in America, the Sigtronics S-58 is covered by a five-year warranty, comes with a padded carry bag, and has a minimum advertised price of $237. It's also available in stereo and helicopter versions for $267 and $252 respectively. For more information, contact Sigtronics Corporation at 909/305-9399; www.sigtronics.com.
Reprinted with permission from the January, 1999 issue of Flight Training Magazine.
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