trying to look at the best all around headset for 121, really like the new Lightspeed and the A20, but any others?

The one you probably already have from previous flying. Unless it's a real cheap one; I wouldn't be spending a lot of money getting into regional flying initially. Some of us need to save all the money we can.

that's true, I'll be entering 121 with zero debt thanks to the GI Bill, but want a good reliable headset that I can use for the next 20+ years lol

It really depends what you're gonna fly. A CRJ or E170 you're probably best going with something lightweight, comfortable, and easy to carry as most airlines transition to EFBs. Any turboprop, or a E145 you'll probably want something with ANR; Might cost more initially but you'll be thankful you didnt damage your hearing.

Your position says student, if you are still learning to fly or still a CFI i would go with the A20. You'll definitely go your money's worth with the amount of time you'll be able to use it and the quality.

Wait for the uflymike to come out for the QC25. Otherwise get the A20s. I am going to sell my Zulu 2s, may keep my a20s for GA flying if I can ever afford it again, but don't want to lug those around. My QC25s go with me commuting. The A20s are (to me) the best all around headset, but any GA headset is too big for this job. I've tried just about everyone out there in both GA and CRJ cockpits. QC15 (25 now) is more versatile than a20s, with good enough noise cancelation and clarity. A20s are overkill in a jet. I don't think (outside maybe a guppy) you'll see A20s anywhere except the regionals.

I like my Telex 850. No batteries, sufficient ANR, and bought used for $200 on eBay.

such hard choices lol Yes I'm a student, and will be for awhile while I wait on my EAS to come around, then school full time, CFI, ect. A20 seems good to me, but the QC25 is much more affordable and will suffice for regional/majors. Just a hard decision I suppose, thanks for yalls input though

Buy used A20s now, use them for your GA, sell them for about what you paid for them, then buy UFM/qc25 when you get on with an airline.

Kore aviation headset on Amazon for 130. I've used it for several months now and no complaints. Great deal for the money.

Quiet Technologies HALO with low mic gain! Works great, half the price of everyone else, and it fits away nice, no head clamp

^^^^ this ^^^^

Does the QC25/UFM combo work when the batteries die?

Yes. Still waiting for the release of the UFM for the QC25...

awesome, thanks for the input, gents lol

The QC 15/UFM doesn't work when the batteries die. The TSO'D version comes with headphones your supposed to wear underneath the headset for this (...yeah, right). FWIW I emailed UFM about 4 weeks ago as mine are shorting out and I never received a reply.