Question for you international jet pilots....

Do any of you use noise canceling earphones? I flew an IOE trip to Asia a couple of weeks ago. The Chinese controllers all sounded like they were talking with marbles in their mouths. Of course it could have been that I had marbles in my ears. But I was wondering if it would help me to more clearly understand what these foreign controllers are saying. Thanks.

MG2

I'm not sure any headset would help hear chinese controllers, but I bought a Sennheiser HMEC 46 a couple of years ago and have been happy with it. Lightweight and comfortable. For me it was between Sennheiser and Bose. Chose Sennheiser due to the uncertainty of how the Bose would "cup" over the ear. Was afraid of how hot it might get on longer trips and of cross-cockpit communication. I have talked with people with Bose products and they are happy too. Bose does have a little better noise reduction capability.
Good luck in your search.

If you're worried about having more noise cancellation and being able to hear the other pilot, Sennheiser just came out with these....

Sennheiser USA - lightweight closed aviation headset, HMEC 26, Active Noise Reduction - Professional Audio

They have a model that has a Talk-through function, so you can leave both ears covered and it picks up the conversation in the ear that faces the other pilot. They look cool.

See lots of guys using the Bose QC15's. Seem pretty nice......FYI

True! It may be better for your overall health to get away from this corrupt organization for awhile.

I have been flying to China for over 9 years and it just takes time to understand what they are saying. As for noise canceling headsets, just remember that we don't an ICS system in the 11, so what ever you use make sure that you can hear the other guy.

I use the QC15's for deadheads and jumpseats. Definite recommend if you can get past the steep pricetag. I don't use them when operating though, I'm more of an overhead speaker guy...

I'm a cheap pilot, and what do you know, looking at a furlough next year ...

I went with the Telex 850. Found a nice used one on E-bay for $250-$300. Works great, lasts a long time. Compact and simple to use.

I use speaker in cruise and use the headset otherwise. It really depends on how much you are going to use your headsets on a flight as to what the best for for you will be.

Just sayin ...

I like the LightSpeed Mach 1 with the custom ear molds. Passive noise canceling, but it is extremely light weight, comfortable, and quiet. On an 11 hr flight, both ears are protected, and you don't have leave the ear pointing toward the other pilot unprotected.

A good headset is the smartest investment you can make, especially if you are flying internationally.

I use a Bose X in a 744, and am noticing more and more of them being carried by other pilots. However if I were shopping today I would look for something that was lighter/smaller.

Would you rather see maintenance working on the airplane with good tools or with an adjustable wrench? It is the same with us -- quality work requires quality tools.