The pros and cons of ANR headphones
In the world of flight, there are two basic types of pilot headsets. There are passive noise reduction headphones and active noise reduction (ANR) headphones. This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the ANR Aviator headset.
The advantages of ANR headphones
The most obvious advantage of ANR headsets is their amazing ability to almost completely eliminate engine, propeller, and airborne noise found in most aircraft cabins. This allows the pilot to clearly hear and understand communications sent by control tower personnel and other controllers.
Another benefit of using active noise reduction headphones is protection against hearing loss. Continuous exposure to high-decibel sounds found in aircraft cabins can cause permanent hearing loss in pilots. Although passive noise reduction headphones will also prevent eardrum damage, ANR headphones do a better job.
Active noise canceling headphones are lighter and have less clamping pressure than passive noise canceling headphones. Passive noise reduction headphones rely solely on the seal around the ear to reduce noise. This means that the headphones need to press firmly against your head, which requires pressure. This constant pressure to the sides of the head can cause pilot fatigue and headaches.
Another advantage found in ANR headphones is the ability to connect a cell phone or MP3 player to the headphones wirelessly. These connections are made using Bluetooth technology. The pilot does not need to remove the headset to make a quick call before takeoff or after landing. And it’s also good to listen to some music during the less busy times of the flight.
The Disadvantages of ANR Headphones
ANR headsets are more expensive than passive headsets, with most costing more than $1,000. This can be a strong deterrent for people on a budget.
What makes them so expensive is the advanced technology required to eliminate cabin noise. Basically, it has to do with creating sound waves directly opposite the sounds picked up by the headphones and sending those sound waves back to the pilot, thus canceling out background noise.
Like other electronics, production costs are coming down, but they’re still expensive enough to make a pilot think twice before buying one.
Another disadvantage of ANR headsets is that sometimes, due to their highly technological nature, they tend to fail. And you should carry fresh spare batteries with you at all times.
In conclusion, every product has good and bad points, so it is up to the individual to weigh the pros and cons and make purchase decisions based on that.