The OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC and the Silynx Clarus XPR are both strong pieces of tactical communications technology. Both headsets have their own unique features like situational awareness with talk thru, NATO wiring, and exceptional hearing protection.

4 Ways to Compare the OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC and the Silynx Clarus XPR

In this article, we'll compare each headset based on the,

• Technology
• Design
• Price
• Warranty

After reading, you'll have a better idea of the differences between the OTTO Noizebarrier and the Silynx Clarus XPR headsets.

Technology

The technology of a communications headset is extremely important when choosing which one is right for you and your team. From electronic hearing protection to hearing enhancement and communication abilities, both the OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC and the Silnyx Clarus XPR have great attributes.

OTTO NoizeBarrier:

• Dual comm speakers
• 360-degree situational awareness microphones in each earcup
• Noise-canceling boom microphone
• 100 hours of talk time
• NRR 23 dB

The OTTO NoizeBarrier comes with an NRR rating of 23 dB which means any noise around you, while properly using the headset, will be reduced by 23 decibels. Dual comm speakers are the main technology behind the NRR of 23 dB; they change loud or sudden noise to safe levels while keeping nearby conversation clear.

Not only is the NoizeBarrier TAC an electronic hearing protection headset, it doubles as a communications headset and comes with its own noise-canceling boom microphone. Because it is also a communications headset, it is compatible with the OTTO Multi-Port Hub PTT giving the user easy access to communication.

The OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC is a state of the art communications headset with top notch abilities.

Silynx Clarus XPR:

• Hearing protection (NRR 25 dB)
• Hearing enhancement for situational awareness
• In-Ear microphone
• 40 hours of battery life

The Clarus XPR is packed with state of the art technology. Although it is the smallest and lightest headset in the world, it can still easily compete with traditional over the ear headsets.

It has an outstanding noise reduction rating of 25 decibels. This technology helps ensure that while in use, you will be protected from noise induced hearing loss, even while around loud noises like gunshots, heavy machinery, sirens, and more.

Hearing protection is not the only positive about the Clarus XPR’s technology, it also includes an in-ear microphone.

This microphone is designed to detect your inner auditory echo; this will allow you to have clear verbal communication without an external microphone that could get in the way or be distracting in certain situations.

Overall the Silynx Clarus XPR is an optimal headset for surveillance critical communications.

Design

The design of your communications and electronic hearing protection headset is something you will want to consider.

Are you going to be using this headset with firearms? Are you looking for something used more for surveillance purposes? These are important questions to consider when evaluating the design of your headset.

OTTO NoizeBarrier:

• Easy to access volume control
• Foam ear cushions
• Low-profile earcup that will not interfere with shouldering a firearm
• Can be easily converted from over-the-head style to top or rear rail mount without tools
• Black, flat dark earth, and olive drab green

Foam ear cushions ensure long lasting comfort and great hearing protection. The OTTO NoizeBarrier is also easy to convert from an over-the-head style to top or rear rail mount without tools.

This communications headset comes in black, flat dark earth, and olive drab green which are perfect colors for blending into natural environments.

Silynx Clarus XPR:

• Smallest and lightest tactical headset in the world!
  • Control box is 2.2in. x 2.1in
  • Weight of the control box 119g (without battery)
  • Weight of the headset 70g
• Color: Black, Tan
• In-Ear design

The Clarus XPR is an in-ear design making it more discreet than a typical over the ear headset. Being an in-ear headset, the Silynx headset is best suited for users of respirators, gas masks, or enclosed helmets.  

The weight of the control box and the headset combined are so low, the Clarus XPR is the smallest and lightest tactical headset in the world. This feature can be a positive for a variety of users.

Headsets that are lighter and smaller are great for communications situations that are going to last a long time. Moreover, if you are someone working surveillance, typically you want something that is smaller because it is more discreet, bringing less attention to yourself.  

For more information about the Clarus XPR visit our guide.

Price Comparison

OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC

The OTTO NoizeBarrier that is compatible with E.F. Johnson, Harris, Kenwood, and Motorola radios costs $825.00. However, it costs $665.00 when paired with the U94-TP120 radio. 

Silynx Clarus XPR

This in-ear headset costs around around $800.

Warranty

OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC

The OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC comes with a one-year warranty. Unfortunately, after the one-year warranty is up they do not have a system where a customer can send in their headset to be fixed.

The NoizeBarrier TAC parts cannot be replaced after the one-year warranty. However, they do have a great customer service who can help you during warranty time period.

Silynx Clarus XPR

The Silynx Clarus XPR comes with a one-year warranty. For one year, the buyer is guaranteed the product will be “free from defects in design, material, and workmanship during normal use…”

To qualify for warranty use during the one-year period, the owner cannot misuse, neglect, use for acts of war, have any unauthorized modifications, repair, or make alterations.

Communications headsets that double as electronic hearing protection can be hard to decide between. It can be overwhelming breaking down all of the important features to determine what headset is right for you and your team.

We hope this article gave you some additional insight into the OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC and the Silynx Clarus XPR headsets to bring you closer to making a decision.

First Source Wireless is a dealer of Silynx In-Ear Headsets and can provide you and your team with lightweight, tactical communication equipment for your team. For more information, contact us via email at sales@firstsourcewireless.com and by phone at 800-991-4569 and our technical team will help find the right headset for you. For more information on the First Source Wireless and Silynx partnership visit here

About the Author

Deanna Parenti is a Marketing Copywriter at First Source Wireless. Her knowledge of Silynx headsets has helped improve the communications of military and tactical teams across the nation. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, making pottery, and getting outside.