Note: As of 2020, 3M Peltor has discontinued the Peltor Comtac III headset and replaced it with the 3M Comtac V with advanced features and an improved design. Learn more about the improvements made to the Comtac V compared to the Comtac VI.
Popular brands in hearing protection are the Peltor Comtac III headsets and the MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X headsets. Both the Peltor Comtac III and Sordin headsets were developed to correspond to international military specifications and are designed specifically to prevent hearing damage.
Both of these noise-canceling communication headsets are able to provide clear communication with ambient listening and feature instant impact noise protection.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), more than 2.7 million veterans currently receive disability benefits for hearing loss or tinnitus, a ringing in the ears.
The Department of Veterans Affairs reports the entitlements to reach in excess of $1.2 billion for compensation for the care of hearing loss and auditory system injuries in over 1.8 million Veterans in 2012 alone. The U.S. Military tries preventing hearing loss by providing warfighters with hearing protection.
When choosing between the MSA Sordin VS Peltor Comtac III, users will want to consider several factors. These factors include,
-
Hearing Protection: Noise Reduction Rating
-
Comms Configurations
-
Features
-
Cost
Noise Reduction Rating
Noise reduction rating is one of the most important features to consider when choosing hearing protection.
Peltor Comtac III offers NRR 20dB. 3M Peltor Comtac III headsets are tested at a 3M NVLAP accredited facility. The Sordin has only 18dB NRR in comparison.
With both headsets, loud volumes, that can potentially cause hearing loss, are suppressed, and low volume sounds are amplified providing seamless two-way communications.
With this amplification feature, the user can easily hear people talking around them at any volume level. When comparing the MSA Sordin vs Peltor III, both headsets have good hearing protection although the Peltor Comtac III has a higher overall NRR rating.
Comms Configurations
Both the Peltor Comtac III and the MSA Sordin Supreme Pro X are available in various models. Model features include either single comm or dual comm headsets. Single comm let's you connect the headset to one external device, like a two-way radio, while the dual comm lets you connect to two external devices.
The 3M Peltor Comtac III has a hearing defender configuration that does not allow connection to external devices so you would use the headset more for hearing protection. With this, the hearing defender headset doesn't allow for comms back and forth to your team.
Both noise protection communication headsets are available in various colors which include coyote brown, olive drab green, black, or foliage green.
Below we have included a list of the features of each respective noise-canceling communication headset.
What are the features of the Peltor Comtac III vs Sordin Pro X?
Features of Peltor Comtac III
- Specially designed to fit with military issued helmets
- It offers the same features and functionality of Comtac II.
- The new profile gives added comfort during extended wear.
- 500 Hours Battery Life.
- Improved Audio Fidelity and Clarity.
- Headband model - FB
- Level-dependent surround sound providing talk thru functionality
Features of MSA Sordin Pro X
- It provides optimum protection with high amplification, AUX input, and watertight battery compartment.
- Both earmuffs are shaped to suit both right-handed and left-handed shooters (for comfortable rifle mounting).
- Two separate, well-shielded microphones for optimum stereo effect and location of sound direction. (waterproof mics in Pro-X model)
- High amplification and natural sound reproduction without chopping.
- Around 600 hours of battery life with two standard AAA batteries.
- Power-saving auto shut-off feature after 4 hours of no button input.
Image of Peltor Comtac III
Image of Msa Sordin Supreme Pro X
Price
In comparing prices between the two respective headsets Peltor Comtac III price ranges online between $549-$700 on dealer sites like First Source Wireless. The MSA Sordin price ranges between $750-$1250 depending on the specific headset model.
What Others Are Saying About the Comtac III
"These are outstanding! I have always been apprehensive of the Peltor ComTacs, mostly due to price and the fact that they are primarily made to be used as com headsets. Well, while its true they were developed primarily as communication devices, they are outstanding ear protection as well! They are extremely comfortable and perform extremely well. Well worth the cost!"
"The volume controls are easy to use and responsive, and you've got the ability to adjust stereo balance and other finer controls to get things just the way you like. The Comtac 3 has the very best sound quality in any set of electronic hearing protection I've ever worn."
To prevent hearing loss both headsets provide exceptional hearing protection in high noise environments that require seamless two-way radio communications.
We want to hear your thoughts on the Comtac and Sordin headsets. Let us know what you think in the comments below.
First Source Wireless is a dealer of 3M Peltor communication headsets and accessories, delivering the 3M Comtac Headsets. Since 2003, First Source Wireless provides optimal wireless solutions to public safety and law enforcement worldwide. Contact us today if you’re interested in purchasing any 3M Peltor headsets.
2 comments
Shawn
The volume controls are easy to use and responsive, and you’ve got the ability to adjust stereo balance and other finer controls to get things just the way you like. This is difficult to prove, but I feel like the Comtac V has the very best sound quality of any electronic hearing protection I’ve ever used
zilli
Amazing and unparalleled audio quality. Amazing situational awareness with this while getting protected