With the new release of the 3M PELTOR Comtac VII comes some questions on how it compares to the 3M PELTOR Comtac V. Is the Comtac VII worth it or should you stick with the older version? The Comtac VII has a new look and added technology that isn't available in the Comtac V.
In this article, we'll discuss the improvements made to the Comtac VII compared to the Comtac V.
What's Different?
Mission Audio Profiles
The new Comtac VIII has Mission Audio Profiles (MAP) that were first introduced in the Comtac VI. These sound profiles are not available in the Comtac V.
Mission Audio Profiles include 5 advanced modes: observation, patrolling, conversation, comfort, and ambient listening off. These sound profiles help maximize audibility based on your environment.
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.
Soundscape
Another feature on the Comac VII that's not on the Comtac V is the new Soundscape Technology. Soundscape automatically adjusts radio and voice prompt volume and reduces radio static to help promote clear communication in constant loud noise.
Shorter Battery Life
The Comtacs run on 2 AA batteries. The Comtac VII has around 50 hours of battery life compared to the Comtac V which has around 150 hours of battery life.
The shorter battery life is most likely due to the Comtac VII having more features such as Mission Audio Profiles and Soundscape.
Both Comtac headsets are fail-safe meaning in the event the batteries die or fail, you can still communicate and hear on your external radio. But features such as MAP and Soundscape will not be available when batteries die.
New Look
With each new release of the Comtac, 3M makes significant improvements to the overall design to make it more usable and comfortable.
Compared to the Comtac V, the Comtac VII has a new headband, a higher-mounted boom mic, and an updated earcup.
The new headband reduces hot spots for comfort during extended wear and it’s easier to transition to an ARC rail headset.
The new deeper earcups give extra space when wearing earplugs for dual hearing protection. Both the Comtac V and VII have earplug mode, a feature that increases the volume of ambient sound and external radios to compensate for the increased noise reduction that earplugs provide.
The boom mic is higher up on the earcup so it won’t interfere while shooting. It also makes it so left-hand shooters don’t have to move the boom mic to the opposite earcup anymore.
Which One to Choose
The main differences between the Comtac V and the Comtac VII are its advanced sound features such as Mission Audio Profiles and Soundscape and the new design.
Users of the Comtac VII have stated the voices sound a lot clearer and have even better directional audio over the V’s. One user even stated they kick the **** out of the Vs and don’t even sound like you have earpro on.
With that being said, if you want the best sound quality the Comtac VIIs are going to be one you’ll want to look into.
If you are not worried about additional sound features like Mission Audio Profiles, the Comtac V is still a widely loved great-sounding headset. It even has a better battery life than the VII which is a common concern with users.
Let us Know Your Thoughts
What are your thoughts on the new Comtac VII? How do you feel it compares to older versions? Let us know in the comments below, we'd love to hear your thoughts!
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!
