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99% positive over last 12 months
96% positive over last 12 months
David Clark DC ONE-X ENC Headset
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | David Clark |
Model Name | language _ tag |
Color | Black |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
About this item
- David Clark Headset Bag, (2) AA batteries included
- Weight (without cord assembly) 12.3 oz
- TSO-C139a Approved
- Five-year warranty and 30-Day, money back guarantee, backed by industry leading customer service.
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Price | $969.35$969.35 | $1,299.00$1,299.00 | $394.57$394.57 | $92.99$92.99 | $899.00$899.00 | $510.23$510.23 |
Delivery | Get it Apr 2 - 4 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it Apr 2 - 4 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Comfort | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 3.9 | 4.7 | 4.7 |
Sound quality | 4.7 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.8 |
Noise cancellation | 4.6 | 3.9 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.7 | 4.5 |
Durability | 4.8 | — | 4.7 | 3.7 | 4.1 | — |
Volume control | — | — | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.8 | 4.6 |
Sold By | Headsets Etc. | Amazon.com | MG Pilot Shop | RuggedRadios | Gulf Coast Avionics Corp. | MG Pilot Shop |
connectivity tech | Wireless | Bluetooth | Wired | Wired | Bluetooth | Wired |
headphones form factor | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | — |
connector type | — | — | PJ-055 (.25" phone plug) | 3.5mm Jack | GA Plugs | — |
noise control | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | active noise cancellation | — |
headphones jack | — | — | General Aviation Dual Plug | 3.5 mm Jack | GA Dual Plugs | — |
cable feature | Without Cable, Retractable | Retractable | 5 Feet long | — | Kevlar core | Retractable |
What's in the box
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Product information
Package Dimensions | 9.41 x 9.06 x 4.88 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 2.03 pounds |
ASIN | B01DCW95SU |
Item model number | 43102G-01 |
Batteries | 2 AA batteries required. |
Customer Reviews |
4.6 out of 5 stars |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Wireless communication technologies | Bluetooth |
Connectivity technologies | Wireless |
Special features | Adjustable Headband |
Other display features | Wireless |
Form Factor | On Ear |
Color | Black |
Whats in the box | Ear Cushions |
Manufacturer | David Clark |
Country of Origin | USA |
Date First Available | March 25, 2016 |
Charging Time | 50 Hours |
Units | 1 Count |
Number Of Items | 1 |
Warranty & Support
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Product Description
Hybrid Electronic Noise Cancellation with advanced feed-forward and feed-back technology provides best-in-class active noise reduction. Digital Signal Processing (DSP) ensures high-fidelity audio for superior communications and music listening. Bluetooth wireless technology provides seamless integration for connecting to cell phones, MP3, tablets or other smart devices. Stereo/mono switch ─ compatible with all aircraft audio panel configurations. M-55 electret microphone with enhanced noise cancelling. Rugged yet lightweight alloy headband and suspension system is adjustable for personalized fit. Low profile, Outlast fabric head pad with vented design absorbs excess heat to keep you cool and eliminates 'hot spots'. Over-the-ear, leatherette ear seals with slow recovery foam cradle the ears in comfort and provide a snug, secure seal. Compact, in-line control module with backlit, touch-key user interface controls. On/Off, Bluetooth wireless technology and volume control Control module powered by two (2) AA batteries for up to 50 hours of use. Collapsible, folding design for compact storage in David Clark headset bag (included)
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, comfort, weight and size of the headset. For example, they mention that it's built with extremely sturdy hinges, it has phenomenal noise reduction and that the ear seals are soft. That said, they say it'll fit into smaller bags and that it has a great fit.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the noise cancellation of the headphones. They say it is phenomenal, clear, and comfortable. Some customers also mention that the microphone is better and picks up their voice clearly.
"...turning on the noise cancelling feature, I'd rate the passive noise reduction as good - very similar to my H10-20's, just more comfortable...." Read more
"...The DC’s sound quality is very impressive. I used the Bluetooth to connect my phone and was completely surprised and how how well they sounded...." Read more
"...They are light, very comfortable, bullet proof build, and sound quality (ANR, even with it off, and Bluetooth are amazing)...." Read more
"Comfortable and super quiet noise cancelling" Read more
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the headphones. They mention that it's built with extremely sturdy hinges, which allow the earcups to move freely. They also appreciate the wonderful David Clark solidity and industrial design. The headphones are light, very comfortable, and have a bulletproof build. The case is a solid ballistic nylon zipper case with partitions that guide the cord. Overall, customers are happy with the performance and durability of the product.
"...Given the lower price, compact size, battery life, build quality, lower price and customer service reputation, I'm personally 100% happy with the DC..." Read more
"...The DC’s have a hinge just above each ear piece, built with extremely sturdy hinges, which allows the earcups to be pressed evenly against your head..." Read more
"...They are light, very comfortable, bullet proof build, and sound quality (ANR, even with it off, and Bluetooth are amazing)...." Read more
"...of mine let me try the DC Pro-X in his Citabria and I was impressed with the quality, comfort and quietness, even with an on the ear headset in a..." Read more
Customers find the comfort of the headphones to be better than the Bose A20s and Lightspeed. They say the cups are soft and the ear seals are soft.
"...noise reduction as good - very similar to my H10-20's, just more comfortable...." Read more
"...I’ve also found that the DC’s are better from a comfort standpoint, which was the #1 thing I was looking for in a headset...." Read more
"...They are light, very comfortable, bullet proof build, and sound quality (ANR, even with it off, and Bluetooth are amazing)...." Read more
"Comfortable and super quiet noise cancelling" Read more
Customers like the weight of the headphones. They say it is very light, compact, and sturdy. They appreciate the use of strong, light alloys along with thick plastics.
"...They are light, very comfortable, bullet proof build, and sound quality (ANR, even with it off, and Bluetooth are amazing)...." Read more
"...The build quality is very high grade and the use of strong, light alloys along with thick plastics makes this a top tier headset...." Read more
"...and the ear cups are a little smaller than the H10-13s, but it is much lighter and more comfortable...." Read more
"...The quality is superb, and they are very light and extremely comfortable. My only complaint I s the mic boom is too flexible...." Read more
Customers find the size of the headphones manageable, and it can fit into smaller bags. They also say it's quite a bit more compact than other headsets, and that it easily fits in the DC case. Customers also mention that the way it fits on their head is perfect, and the over-the-ear fit is great. They say it takes up less room when folded up, and is great for big heads.
"...Given the lower price, compact size, battery life, build quality, lower price and customer service reputation, I'm personally 100% happy with the DC..." Read more
"...also allow the DC’s to be folded up to a much smaller and more manageable size...." Read more
"...They are compact. Great looking, controls are good too. But, their noice blocking capability is garbage...." Read more
"...The over the ear fit is great, no pressure on my ears and no discomfort otherwise...." Read more
Customers like the bluetooth connectivity of the headphones. They mention that it works well, is flawless, and is great for music and radio communications. The bluetooth function allows for high quality streaming audio, and makes communication so much clearer.
"...To be clear, in the cockpit, radio communications are excellent in terms of sound quality, and the various controllers I've asked report that they..." Read more
"...Also, Bluetooth connectivity has been flawless, I synced them once 3 years ago and not one time has it hesitated or disconnected, I have even used..." Read more
"...Bluetooth works really well. This thing pairs with my iPhone with 100% reliability so far and zero fussing around...." Read more
"...The controls are very easy to use and the bluetooth function allows for high quality streaming audio, which sounds great!..." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the headset. They say it's a great aviation headset for the money, and a cheap way to save your hearing.
"...Given the lower price, compact size, battery life, build quality, lower price and customer service reputation, I'm personally 100% happy with the DC..." Read more
"...They provide the comfort, exceptional quality, and $400 cheaper price tag when it’s all said and done...." Read more
"Was opting for the Bose but my son owns this one. It’s great and much cheaper." Read more
"...DC is cheaper and far more comfortable." Read more
Customers find the headphones easy to use. They mention the control unit is simple to use and clips on easily. They also appreciate the intuitive design and easy-to-use controls. The headphones have been reliable so far, with zero fussing around. They say it pairs easily without issue and works well for phone calls.
"...The Bluetooth feature works well with my iPhone and iPad. It pairs easily without issue, and it works well for phone calls as well as to listen to..." Read more
"...I absolutely couldn't be happier. The control module is easy to use and durable, the headset clamping force is tight without being too tight, the..." Read more
"...I wish the BT soft mute could be defaulted to off but it’s very easy to deselect each time you plug in...." Read more
"...The controls are very easy to use and the bluetooth function allows for high quality streaming audio, which sounds great!..." Read more
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With that in mind, I was looking forward to upgrading my 1990's H10-20's to the DC ONE-X. Although I'm also impressed with the Bose A20 (I don't own them, but a fellow pilot friend has them in a plane I use), the DC's are almost 30% less expensive, and I know I don't have to worry about customer service with David Clark.
Getting started wasn't easy - I ordered a set of DC ONE-X headsets, but it was dead on arrival. The speakers and noise canceling worked fine, but the mic was dead. I had tested them using my handheld radio, but I didn't try transmitting...I didn't discover the mic problem until I was in the airplane. Luckily, I had my trusty twenty-five year old H10-20's standing by.
After the flight, I called David Clark thinking there might be some magic to getting them working. One of their engineers walked me through a few tests and she agreed my headset was defective. Amazon took the return with no questions asked, and I had a second pair within a few days. This time, I tried transmitting through my handheld radio, and I also paired the headset with my phone and made sure both reception and transmission worked before going flying. I'm happy to say that the second pair works perfectly, as I expect for any headset in this price range.
With that behind me, my first impressions are that the DC's are excellent in terms of build quality. Everything fits precisely and the fit and finish on everything from the ear cups to the small screws is perfect. The control unit is simple to use and clips on easily. I might prefer the plugs to be gold-plated (or solid brass as in the really old DCs), but that's a very minor issue. About the only thing I don't like is that the auto-off and mono/stereo switches are hidden under the batteries and require a tool to adjust.
For my head, the DC's are about the most comfortable headsets I've ever worn. Going from my old H10-20's, there is quite a bit less clamping force - so much less, I was worried they would be shifting around on my head, but that wasn't the case - they stay exactly where I put them. The DC's seem quite a bit more compact than other headsets, which is also appreciated. The way they fold up lets them fit into my always over-crowded flight bag with ease. Some headsets make me feel like I can't move my head lest they fly off...not so the DC's. I wear them with sunglasses - I don't notice any performance difference with my glasses on or off.
I've had the DC's in several different airplanes and had no issues with PS, Garmin or King audio panels or my Yaesu handheld radio. The Bluetooth feature works well with my iPhone and iPad. It pairs easily without issue, and it works well for phone calls as well as to listen to music (or other audio). I use the auto-off feature and it seems to work reliably. In terms of battery life, I've been using Eveready AA Ultimate Lithium batteries, and after 50+ hours (a mix of aircraft and ground testing with and without Bluetooth), I haven't needed to change them yet. This seems substantially better than folks tell me they are getting from their Bose headsets.
Then there's the sound quality and noise canceling...
First, without turning on the noise cancelling feature, I'd rate the passive noise reduction as good - very similar to my H10-20's, just more comfortable. This is important should the batteries die...you won't be left with a totally ineffective headset, even without batteries.
On the ground, the sound quality for music is nothing to brag about, but in a noisy airplane, it's more than adequate. Still, you're not going to be tempted to sit in your favorite home theater seat with your DC's on. To be clear, in the cockpit, radio communications are excellent in terms of sound quality, and the various controllers I've asked report that they hear me loud and clear. The headset seems to be tuned to the range of the human voice - ATC and other planes seem to be more legible to me than with other headsets I've tried.
When you activate the noise canceling circuit, you definitely get that sense of sudden quiet a few seconds after you power it up. The effect is most dramatic at lower frequencies, such as you hear from an aircraft engine. But, at the same time, it's not like going from noise to silence - you still hear the ambient sound of the engine, it's just more muted. It is definitely quieter than my H10-20's, but it's not like being plunged into silence.
Several of the online reviews of the DC ONE-X mention that the noise reduction isn't as good as the Bose A20. I always wonder whether these comments are based on personal experience, or if it gets to almost be "urban legend" as one reviewer quote previous reviews. I thought the fairest comparison I could make would be if I had the DC's and the Bose side by side on the same flight, so I invited another Bose-owning pilot to fly with me in a C206. We flew for half the flight and switched headsets, then compared our impressions at the end of the flight.
Both of us agreed that the Bose is in fact quieter. Wearing the DC for an hour and switching to the Bose is almost eerie...the difference is fairly dramatic. Here's the summary of our impressions:
- Bose has better active noise reduction
- DC is slightly better passive noise reduction
- DC is more comfortable
- Bose sounds better for music
- DC sounds better for cockpit communications
Given the lower price, compact size, battery life, build quality, lower price and customer service reputation, I'm personally 100% happy with the DC's, and even after using it and the Bose side-by-side, I'd probably still choose the DC. I suppose the question boils down to whether the DC's have "good enough" noise reduction, and this depends on what you're flying and whether you prefer as close to silence as possible or to hear a little ambient noise. For me, the DC ONE-X was the right choice, and although different people might make other choices, it's one of those products I can recommend without hesitation.
Initially I wanted to go with the smaller, and cheaper, David Clark DC-pros. I know some people don’t like the green but I’ve always loved the brand. Their reputation was built on quality so when it came to spending my own money I went with what I knew would work. I went by a local airport that had the DC-pro X ANC and tried them on. They felt great, were compact, and I liked the ANC so I picked them up. My first day of flying with them was a pretty long one and even though they felt great initially I really started to have discomfort by the end of the day. Burning ears all over again. I need to point out this is not DC’s fault I don’t think there’s anything I could wear on my ears that wouldn’t cause burning after a while. So I returned them then ended up lucking out finding a demo pair of the DC-Ones on Amazon for $825 with free shipping and no taxes. That managed to cut a good amount off the total price which is normally $895 pre-tax.
After the new DC-One set arrived I couldn’t wait to get out and give them a try. Our aircraft had been down for maintenance having wifi installed so it was nice getting it back to service. I showed up and the first thing I saw when I poked my head in the cockpit was two still-in-the-box Bose A20s. Can’t lie that I felt upset considering how many times I had written maintenance about getting some with no reply, not to mention the money and time I had spent getting these. I decided I’d use this opportunity to put the little nagging voice in my head to bed by doing a real comparison. Everyone and their mother pushes the Bose A20s. I don’t know if it’s because they truly think they’re the best or if it’s a certain pride they feel knowing they have the most expensive headset made sitting on their head. (kind of like riding in my gf’s Porsche which at first seems great but the reality is it rides like crap and sounds cheap).
Today has been a 6hr day of flying. I’ve had both headsets powered on and sitting on my lap swapping them back and forth. My impressions are that the DC-one is the superior product in in everything but two aspects. To start the DC’s are built with a much superior quality using a magnesium alloy instead of plastic. Simply holding them in your hands you can instantly see which pair will last. The cord on the Bose is thicker but I’ve actually found that to be annoying and unneeded. DC gives you a longer cord that’s still ample thick. I’ve also found that the DC’s are better from a comfort standpoint, which was the #1 thing I was looking for in a headset. The DC’s have a hinge just above each ear piece, built with extremely sturdy hinges, which allows the earcups to be pressed evenly against your head regardless of shape or size. The hinges also allow the DC’s to be folded up to a much smaller and more manageable size. The earcups on the DC’s seal firmly against your head so regardless of how your turn or flex your jaw it never breaks seal. Should the batteries die the DC’s are very usable with their passive noise reduction which is much more than what the Bose A20s can offer. The DC’s sound quality is very impressive. I used the Bluetooth to connect my phone and was completely surprised and how how well they sounded. If the mic could come off DC could make a pretty penny selling these as quality headphones, however the A20s are very good as well so I considered this a wash. I’ve also found I prefer the DC’s electrical box compared to the Bose. They have digital volume control instead of the rotating slider and overall feels like it’s built tougher. The cord to the box is also longer so I can easily drape it over the window slide so it hangs conveniently next to my seat, easily in reach. The next big ticket item is the ANR abilities of the headset. From sitting on the ground to climb out, en-route cruise and various altitudes up to 40k ft, and descent, I swapped each headset multiple times. Regardless of phase of flight the DC’s were superior. This was something I hadn’t expected as I had heard some say the A20s were better. Doing a little digging the very few that said that seemed to be sitting at an airshow table and not real world. I haven’t dug through the specs but my real world ears kept telling me over and over that the DC’s had the better ANR system. The Bose give a little bit of a false-positive feel by not just using noise reduction through a processor but by also pumping in a lot of barely audible “white noise”. The DC’s sound like they just cut down the noise precisely as they should. Granted I haven’t used these in a prop, and God willing I never will, but in the cockpit of the Legacy the DC’s just beat the Bose.
The two places the DC’s might fall a little short compared to the A20s is the microphone and the weight. The mic isn’t bad by any means I could very clearly speak with everyone I just believe the Bose has a slightly better one. This could be by DC design as I’ve flown with several people in the past where you heard absolutely everything that person did from swallowing to heavy breathing and I found that to be pretty annoying. As far the weight I honestly haven’t noticed the difference at all but I believe the DC’s do have an extra ounce or two. I also haven’t had the opportunity to see how long each could last on a pair of batteries but that’s something I really care too much about. I keep a spare pair.
I’ve never used the lightspeed’s outside of trying them on at a FBO so I can’t really compare the DC’s to them but between the DC’s and the Bose I just kept reaching for the DC’s. They provide the comfort, exceptional quality, and $400 cheaper price tag when it’s all said and done. David Clark really did their homework with this headset. Even if evenly priced I’d have to go with the DC’s. It’s my money so there’s no favoritism here. Unfortunately they’re probably going back. As much as I love them I can’t justify paying for them when there’s two new A20’s sitting in the cockpit I can use for free.
Headsets are a very big deal to me considering how it’s my profession and pretty much the one item I’ll always use. It was killing me reading so many reviews on so many different products. With these being so new it was hard to find any worthwhile review so hopefully this helps someone out. If you’re looking for an over-the-ear headset I recommend the DC’s over the Bose.