Clarity Aloft Classic vs Pro Plus
 

I've been using Bose A20 for a few years now and looking to buy an in-ear model. I've heard good things about the Clarity and QT Halo. Clarity has a couple TSO and a couple non-TSO models. Has anyone tried both the Classic and the Pro Plus that can comment on the difference? The only post I could find on this was several years old.

I’ve had both.

Biggest difference is that the Pro Plus is TSO’d. If your airline requires that (mine does), that’s something to factor in.

The other major difference is the microphone boom, which is much sturdier on the Pro Plus.

Otherwise, they’re very similar. If my airline didn’t require the TSO, I’d probably continue to use the less expensive Classic.

I've had the Clarity Aloft, the QT Halo, and the CQ Headsets (link below).

The CQ is the best of the 3 by a wide margin in construction and sound quality. The Bluetooth is fantastic as well.

https://cqheadset.com/about-us/

I am also looking to purchase an in ear headset, does anyone have any experience with the Clarity Aloft Flex vs Pro? The reviews I am finding are also older and hard to find. I'm interested in it so I can swap the boom to either side depending on the seat. Thanks!

Classic
 

I bought a pair of Clarity Aloft non-TSO at Airventure/Oshkosh ‘22 from the Clarity Aloft booth. After speaking at length with the Clarity Aloft salesman at the show, there is absolutely zero difference between the TSO and non-TSO version. I asked him if the FAA requested the beefier boom… He said absolutely not. That came about from pilots requesting it. I then asked about the circuitry, the wiring, the cord, all of it. He kept reiterating adamantly that there is absolutely no difference between the two. Other than paperwork. So except for the beefier boom, you get nothing extra for your money other than the paperwork saying it’s TSO. So I went with the cheaper version. For what that’s worth.

I tried the Pro Plus and the Flex. The Flex is very comfortable, but also flimsy and you need to be careful putting it in the case. Both work well and are comfortable. One annoying thing for some (about the Pro) is that the mic is only on the left side. I didn’t really mind that though. Both are TSO certified and legal for 121 use. A good feature is that they don’t require batteries like the ANR headsets do. The lack of Bluetooth isn’t an issue since we’re not supposed to be using Bluetooth in the cockpit anyway, and also you’d look pretty goofy wearing either headset in the cabin listening to music.

Thanks! TSO and cost aside, which did you find more comfortable? Did the beefier mic feel heavier/strenuous on your ear?

I find the Pro Plus very well made… have had mine for about 2 years now. Very comfortable on long flights… like wearing a pair of sunglasses. I personally don’t find the boom mic pulling anymore than the right side of the headset. Pay for the TSO even though it’s BS… better safe than sorry.

Looks pretty good. How long have you had it? Any issue with check FOs and it not being TSOd?

I had a Classic for over 10 years. Just switched to the Bluetooth model Clarity and also no issues.

Neither are TSO’d and I’ve never been asked by anyone. I honestly couldn’t care less. And if anyone asks I’ll say, “sure”.