The newly released Comtac VIII is the latest in the Comtac series. Each new release comes with improvements such as design and new features that help the modern warfighter and tactical teams.
In this article, we’ll discuss the improvements in the Comtac VII compared to the Comtac VI. From new features to improved design, some features stayed the same.
What’s Different?
No Natural Interactive Behavior (NIB)
Natural Interactive Behavior was a feature found first in the Comtac VI. NIB is a short-range headset-to-headset communication without needing an external communication radio. It allows 4 team members to speak simultaneously (over 60 listen-only members) within 10 meters of each other.
This was a popular feature in the Comtac VI but Natural Interactive Behavior (NIB) is not a feature in the Comtac VII.
Improved Design
In the Comtac VII, there is a new low profile headband, updated earcups, and a higher boom mic placement.
It seems with every new release there are improvements made to the headband to make it more comfortable. The new headband reduces hot spots for extended wear and makes transitioning to an ARC rail headset easier.
The new earcups are deeper to make extra space when wearing dual hearing protection such as earplugs.
Lastly, the boom mic is placed higher so it won't get in the way of left-handed shooters and doesn't need to be moved to the other earcup.
Soundscape Technology
Soundscape is a new feature found only on the new Comtac VII. This feature in the Comtac VII automatically increases radio and voice prompt volume while reducing radio static to help promote clear communication in continuous loud noise.
No Black Color Option
In previous Comtac models, black headsets were marketed as “Swat-Tac” the only difference being the color was black. This is most likely due to Swat team uniforms primarily being black.
With the Comtac VII, there are no black headsets (or ones labeled Swat-Tac), and it's now a charcoal grey color.
What’s the same?
Mission Audio Profiles
Mission Audio Profiles (MAP) was first introduced in the Comtac VI and is now also on the Comtac VII. MAP provides ambient/environmental listening modes that can be switched depending on your needs.
Mission Audio Profiles includes 5 advanced modes: observation, patrolling, conversation, comfort, and ambient listening.
Observation: Maximum auditory awareness and sound detection in a quiet environment when the user is still.
Patrolling: For high situational awareness when walking in a low-noise environment. Limits sound such as footsteps on gravel, grass moving under feet, and equipment on the body.
Conversation: Intended for close approximate open ear listening and sound localization.
Comfort: For comfort in noisy environments. Intended for use in periods of loud noise produced by tactical vehicles or airplanes.
Ambient Listening Off: Maximum sound reduction when operating in high noise and monitoring a radio.
Earplug Mode
Earplug mode is a feature found on both the Comtac VII and VI. It boosts environmental listening, comms volume, and voice prompts when wearing earplugs under the headset to help compensate for the additional attenuation (noise reduction).
Fail-Safe
The Comtac headsets run on AA batteries. If the batteries deplete you can still communicate and hear on your external radio. Features like soundscape and mission audio profiles will not be available when the batteries die.
In Summary
In summary, the Comtac VII brings fresh updates to the series, focusing on comfort, usability, and communication clarity. The new headband, deeper earcups, and better mic placement make it more user-friendly, while the addition of Soundscape Technology improves communication in noisy environments.
Though it no longer includes the Natural Interactive Behavior feature, the Comtac VII keeps essential features like Mission Audio Profiles and Earplug Mode, ensuring it remains a dependable tool. Overall, it’s a solid upgrade, designed to meet the needs of today’s tactical teams.
About First Source Wireless
Ready to elevate your communication with the 3M PELTOR Comtac VIII headset? At First Source Wireless, we’re more than just a supplier – we’re your trusted partner in finding the perfect solution. With over 10 years as a 3M authorized dealer, we’ve helped hundreds of agencies enhance their communication and stay mission-ready.
Shop the Comtac VIII now or connect with our expert team for personalized assistance. Call us at 800-991-4569, chat with us online, or email sales@firstsourcewireless.com. Let us help you equip yourself with the best tactical communication gear today!
