In the end you will end up paying far more for the consumer junk that doesn't last as long and is far less durable. The aviation headsets are $1000 for a reason, they are far better quality- and TSO'd (which makes them legal to use).

Excellent headsets on the used market available for less then what you will pay for a NC converted headset/mic.
My biggest peave is the "soft talkers", yep their wearing a UFly. All those super quiet RJ transmissions, Uflys with the mic hanging down.

Seen many different models being used.. I prefer the A20 for comfort, noise cancelation and clarity. Albeit this was previously used for flying piston powered aircraft, it transitioned perfectly to a jet.

I also, hear great things about the clairty aloft pro plus..

I believe TSO requirements are airline specific. The Bose/uflymike setup is especially nice for commuters and long sits in the crew room.

Another vote for the Bose A20. They are mid-range, IMO, as far as comfort is concerned but are the best I've worn when it comes to noise cancelling/sound deadening qualities. I have used the QC-15 setup but was never happy with the lack of flexibility and one sided-ness of the mic setup. Also, the noise cancelling is far superior on the A20. I have also used several DC's, the Telex 750 and 850 and have test worn some Sennheisers.

I flown with a lot of older captains who definitely have hearing issue - too many years of jets, props and inadequate hearing protection. A head set is one area that I would not recommend cutting corners on.

And regarding expense. If you want sticker shock, price out a high-quality set of hearing aids. Watched that first hand with a couple of older family members.