In the world of aviation headsets, David Clark is a name synonymous with quality and durability. Their latest JET-X headset lineup is purpose-built for pilots flying jets in commercial and corporate aviation. These headsets are designed to be ultra-lightweight, comfortable, and optimized for the quieter cockpits of turbine aircraft. In this comprehensive review, we introduce the full David Clark JET-X series – including both Active Noise Reduction (ANR) and Passive models – and see how they stack up against leading competitors. Whether you’re an airline captain or a business jet pilot, choosing the right headset can make a world of difference on long flights. Let’s explore why the David Clark JET-X might just be the best lightweight aviation headset for jet pilots and how it compares to alternatives like Telex.
Table of Contents
Overview of the David Clark JET-X Headset Lineup
Key Features of the JET-X ANR Headsets
Comfort-Focused Design and Build Quality
David Clark JET Passive Models – ANR Alternatives
Comparison: David Clark JET-X vs. Telex and Other Alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Overview of the David Clark JET-X Headset Lineup
David Clark’s JET-X series consists of four headset models, covering both ANR and passive options with different connectors. All four share the same sleek, rest-on-ear (supra-aural) design and incredibly low weight of just 4.5 ounces. Here’s a quick look at each model in the lineup:
- DC JET-X ANR (Dual GA Plug) – Active noise-cancelling model with standard dual GA plugs (PJ-055 and PJ-068). This version uses an inline module powered by a AA battery for noise cancellation. Ideal for most business jets and commercial aircraft that use twin plug connections.
- DC JET-X ANR (5-Pin XLR) – Active noise-cancelling model with a 5-pin XLR connector for aircraft power (common in Airbus and some corporate jets). It draws power directly from the aircraft (via the #5 pin) instead of a battery. Functionally, it’s the same ANR headset as the dual-plug version, but tailored for cockpits equipped with an XLR panel port.
- DC JET Passive (Dual GA Plug) – Passive noise-attenuating model (no electronic noise cancellation) with dual GA plugs. It provides the same ultra-lightweight frame and comfort features, but relies on passive noise reduction only. Great for jet cockpits where additional ANR may not be necessary.
- DC JET Passive (5-Pin XLR) – Passive model with a 5-pin XLR connector (aircraft-powered jack). It’s essentially the same as the dual-plug passive headset, but fitted for aircraft that use the XLR panel socket. No battery or power is required since it has no ANR electronics.
All four models are FAA TSO-C139a certified for use in commercial operations, and each comes with a three-year manufacturer warranty. The only differences between them are the presence of ANR electronics and the plug type/power source – everything else (weight, build, comfort features, and mic) is identical. This means whether you opt for the ANR or passive, GA or XLR version, you’re getting the same lightweight design and David Clark quality.
Both the ANR and passive headsets weigh an incredibly light 4.5 oz, making them among the lightest pro pilot headsets in their class. In fact, 4.5 ounces is about half the weight of a typical over-ear ANR headset used in general aviation. David Clark achieved this by using a minimalist on-ear design and modern lightweight materials. We’ll dive into those design features next.
| Model | Noise Reduction | Connector | Power Source | Weight | List Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC JET‑X ANR (Dual GA) | Active (ENC) | Dual GA plugs | 1× AA battery (≈50 hrs; auto‑off; USB‑C recharge) | 4.5 oz (128 g) | $685 |
| DC JET‑X ANR (5‑Pin XLR) | Active (ENC) | 5‑pin XLR | Aircraft panel power | 4.5 oz (128 g) | $685 |
| DC JET Passive (Dual GA) | Passive | Dual GA plugs | None | 4.5 oz (128 g) | $345 |
| DC JET Passive (5‑Pin XLR) | Passive | 5‑pin XLR | None | 4.5 oz (128 g) | $345 |
Key Features of the JET-X ANR Headsets
The DC JET-X ANR headsets are packed with features tailored for professional pilots, focusing on noise reduction and high-quality communication without unnecessary frills. Here are the key features that set the JET-X apart:
Ultra-Lightweight ENC Technology
At just 4.5 ounces, the Jet-X is exceptionally light – you can barely feel it on your head. Despite the tiny form factor, it delivers excellent ANR performance using David Clark’s proprietary Electronic Noise-Cancelling (ENC) technology. Reports note the Jet-X was “exceptionally light and comfortable with good noise canceling” during flight tests. This makes it ideal for long days in the cockpit of a quiet jet. Just keep in mind that an on-ear headset like this isn’t meant for very loud aircraft (e.g. piston or older turboprop planes) – it’s purpose-built for the relatively quiet environment of jet flight decks. Within that environment, the Jet-X’s active noise reduction is considered best-in-class, easily cutting out the low-frequency hum of jet engines and air conditioning so you can hear ATC and cockpit communications clearly.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP) for Clarity
The JET-X incorporates advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) in its ANR module to enhance audio fidelity. This means cockpit communications come through crisp and clear, without distortion. Engine noise and wind rumble are actively filtered out, allowing you to focus on radio calls. The microphone is David Clark’s M-5B electret mic, which has enhanced noise-cancelling as well – providing communication clarity that is second to none. Pilots found it easy to talk to a Jet-X user, a testament to its clarity and minimal sound leakage.
Simplicity and Reliability
One refreshing aspect of the JET-X is its no-nonsense design. David Clark intentionally avoided adding gimmicky extras – there’s no Bluetooth music streaming, no app, no built-in CO detectors or other gadgets. The Jet-X “knows it’s a headset and doesn’t try to be anything else”. This focus on core functionality makes it extremely reliable. There are fewer components to fail or distract you. The inline control module is simple: an ON/OFF switch for the ANR and a LED indicator. There are no individual volume knobs on the headset (volume is managed through the aircraft audio panel or intercom, as is common in airline operations). This simplicity also helped keep weight and cost down – at roughly half the price of top-of-the-line GA ANR headsets, the Jet-X delivers high performance without the premium price tag.
Battery Power (or Panel Power) Options
The dual-plug JET-X runs on a single AA battery housed in the inline controller. Thanks to efficient electronics, you get up to 50 hours of use per battery, and there’s an auto-shutoff feature to prevent accidentally draining the battery. Pilots report around 25–30 hours on a typical AA, which for many will last several weeks of flying. The controller also has a USB-C port, allowing you to use a USB power source or to recharge a rechargeable AA. The 5-pin XLR version, on the other hand, draws power from the aircraft – no batteries needed. If your jet provides headset power through the panel, the XLR JET-X is a plug-and-play solution. In either case, you won’t be caught mid-flight with a dead headset.
High-Quality Build, Backed by Warranty
David Clark built the Jet-X at their Massachusetts facility with the same robustness as their legendary green headsets. The headband assembly uses rugged yet lightweight polymer and alloy components. The design passed FAA TSO-C139a standards. Each Jet-X comes with a protective David Clark headset bag and a 3-year warranty, supported by the company’s renowned customer service. David Clark headsets are known to last for many years; the Jet-X aims to continue that tradition.
The David Clark JET-X ANR headset (Dual GA plug version) showcases its slim, on-ear design and lightweight build. Note the compact inline ANR controller and dual GA plugs, which can be swapped for a 5-pin XLR on the panel-powered model. All JET-X headsets feature leatherette ear seals and an Outlast® cooling head pad for comfort.
Comfort-Focused Design and Build Quality
One of the biggest selling points of the JET-X series is its comfort-forward design. David Clark clearly prioritized minimizing pilot fatigue on long flights. Here’s how the Jet-X achieves outstanding comfort:
Feather-Light, Low-Clamping Fit
As noted, the headset itself weighs only 4.5 ounces, so there’s very little mass on your head. Additionally, the clamping pressure has been engineered to be very gentle, with some reviews noting it has “lighter clamping pressure than any headset I’ve ever worn”. This means it sits securely without squeezing your head. Pilots report that it’s easy to forget you’re even wearing a headset. The light clamping also means that wearing glasses or sunglasses is no problem. Because the ear pads rest on the ears rather than encircle them, the Jet-X doesn’t require a perfect seal that would be broken by temple arms of glasses.
Plush Leatherette Ear Seals
The Jet-X uses plush leatherette ear seals with slow-recovery memory foam that conform gently to the ear. The ear cushions are soft and breathable, reducing any pressure points and heat build-up. Even on long-haul flights, you won’t get that sweaty or sore-ear feeling. These ear seals are easily replaceable.
Outlast® Cooling Head Pad
The headband features an Outlast® fabric head pad, a technology originally developed for NASA to manage heat and moisture. This heat-absorbing material helps keep you cool on the flight deck by absorbing excess heat and preventing sweat build-up under the headband. The pad also has a breathable, vented design for airflow. It’s a feature rarely seen in other headsets of this class.
Fully Adjustable Suspension
The Jet-X has a suspension-style headband where an inner adjustment strap allows the headset to hang lightly on your head. You can adjust the sizing and angle of the ear cups for a personalized fit. The dual hinge design lets them swivel and tilt. This freedom of movement, combined with the light weight, means the headset distributes pressure evenly. The frame is made of a rugged polymer with alloy pivots.
Secure, Flexible Microphone Boom
The full-flex boom mic on the Jet-X is easy to position exactly where you want it, and it stays put. The boom allows precise placement and can be rotated for use on either the left or right side. The microphone itself (M-5B) has a foam windscreen and is tuned for speech clarity with background noise rejection. You can speak at a normal voice level and be heard clearly.
In day-to-day use, these comfort features truly set the JET-X apart. The result is a headset that jet pilots can wear for many hours without pain or fatigue. As one reviewer summed up: it’s “an extraordinarily light, comfortable, minimalist headset ideal for relatively quiet jets on long flights”.
David Clark JET Passive Models – ANR Alternatives
Not all pilots feel they need Active Noise Reduction, especially in modern jets with very quiet cockpits. For those pilots, David Clark offers the JET Passive versions.
Same Ultra-Light Design, Without Electronics
The JET Passive headsets weigh the same 4.5 ounces as the ANR versions. They use the identical rest-on-ear leatherette ear seals, Outlast cooling head pad, flexible boom mic, and adjustable headband. You get all the comfort benefits of the JET-X design, just without the ANR module. This makes the passive version a superior alternative to standard “ship sets”.
Dual Plug or 5-Pin XLR Options
Just like the ANR model, the passive DC JET comes in two versions: one with dual GA plugs and one with a 5-pin XLR connector. Choose based on the connector standard in your cockpit. You just plug in and go; no batteries or cables beyond the basic audio cord.
Great Noise Attenuation for Quiet Jets
Although passive, these headsets provide good noise attenuation for their intended environments. The supra-aural ear cups block a decent amount of ambient noise. In a typical business jet or airliner cockpit, they can dampen wind rush and avionics fan noise. They won’t match the total noise reduction of the ANR version, but in a quiet jet, that may not be a concern. David Clark positions the passive JET series for “low noise (quiet) cockpits” and notes they are not suitable for noisier cockpits. Pilots report that even without ANR, the lightweight design is far less fatiguing than heavier headsets.
Simplicity and Cost Benefits
The passive models excel in their simplicity. No ANR circuitry, no batteries, zero chance of electronic failure. Additionally, the price point is about half the cost of the ANR version. This makes it one of the most affordable lightweight professional headsets available. It also carries the TSO certification and 3-year warranty.
In summary, the DC JET Passive headsets are fantastic lightweight alternatives for pilots who don’t require ANR, offering the same praised comfort minus the electronics.
Comparison: David Clark JET-X vs. Telex and Other Alternatives
The lightweight, on-ear headset market for jet pilots has traditionally been dominated by Telex. How does the JET-X line compare?
Weight & Form Factor
The DC JET-X has an on-head weight of 4.5 oz (128 g) without the cord. The popular Telex Airman 8 ANR weighs about 6.6 oz with cord (187 g). The Jet-X is notably lighter. Bose’s ProFlight Series 2 also advertises 4.5 oz on-head weight, achieved via an in-ear design. Both Jet-X and Telex headsets are supra-aural (on-ear). The Jet-X has a more robust looking dual-band suspension headband. Bottom line: The JET-X is among the lightest available, giving it a comfort edge.
Noise Reduction Performance
Both David Clark and Telex offer ANR models for jet noise. The DC JET-X ANR uses powered ENC with DSP, providing excellent attenuation. The Telex Airman 8 also provides ANR but without a battery, powered by mic bias. This limits the power available for noise cancelling. Telex ANR is effective but its overall reduction depth is likely less than battery-powered ANR like the Jet-X. David Clark advertises the Jet-X’s ANR as “best-in-class”. Both are TSO-C139a approved. Between Telex and DC: Jet-X likely has the edge in total noise reduction due to dedicated power and DSP.
Comfort & Ergonomics
This is where the JET-X shines. While Telex headsets are lightweight, some find them less comfortable over time (thin pads, simple headbands). The Telex Airman 8 improved comfort, but David Clark went further with the Jet-X’s Outlast cooling head pad and thick memory-foam ear seals. The Jet-X also has notably lower clamping force. It works very well with eyeglasses. The Jet-X ANR has a small inline control module; Telex ANR has none (simpler cord, but no controls). Overall: Pilots are likely to find the Jet-X more comfortable long-term.
Audio Quality & Clarity
Both have excellent reputations. The Jet-X, with its DSP, produces very crisp sound. Telex headsets traditionally have a slightly “lighter” output. Microphone performance is top-notch for both (DC's M-5B vs. proven Telex mics). Neither the Jet-X nor Telex Airman series typically have Bluetooth or music inputs. For pure comms: Both deliver, with Jet-X arguably having a more modern, refined sound due to DSP.
Connector and Power Options
Both offer dual GA and 5-pin XLR options. Difference: Jet-X ANR uses battery (Dual GA) or aircraft power (XLR). Telex Airman 8 ANR uses mic jack power for both versions (no batteries ever). Telex Advantage: Never need batteries. Jet-X Advantage: Potentially more powerful ANR, battery model has auto-off, XLR model offers no-battery convenience in equipped aircraft, USB-C power option on battery model. Choice: Depends on preference for battery management vs. absolute simplicity and aircraft equipment.
Price and Value
Telex headsets generally cost less. Telex Airman 8 ANR is often ~$500 street price. DC JET-X ANR lists at $685 (sells around $675). JET Passive (~$345) is comparable to passive Telex options. Value: Jet-X costs slightly more but arguably delivers more (comfort, potentially better ANR, warranty/support reputation). David Clark offers a 3-year warranty on Jet-X; Telex typically offers 3 years on Airman. Both have good support, but David Clark has a legendary reputation.
Other Alternatives
Main alternative: Bose ProFlight Series 2/3 (in-ear, excellent ANR, Bluetooth, ~4.5 oz). Also in-ear headsets like Clarity Aloft (super light, earplugs). Lightspeed models are typically over-ear GA headsets. Summary: JET-X's direct competition is Telex Airman. Compared to Bose ProFlight, Jet-X is much cheaper and avoids the in-ear design.
The Verdict
Choosing between Telex and David Clark JET-X comes down to priorities: ultimate comfort and potentially better noise cancelling (Jet-X) vs. slightly lower cost and battery-free simplicity (Telex). David Clark has raised the comfort bar. Pilots praise the Jet-X for reducing fatigue. Telex Airman 8 is a solid, proven performer. Given the JET-X offers quality without the premium price of Bose, it's worth serious consideration. It’s great for pilots to have multiple strong options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes a headset “jet-specific” or suitable for jet pilots?
A: Jet cockpits are generally quieter than piston aircraft cockpits. Headsets for jet pilots can be lighter and smaller (often on-ear/supra-aural like the DC JET-X or Telex Airman) with minimal clamping force for long-term comfort. They are typically FAA TSO-certified (TSO-C139a) as required by airlines. They focus on clear communication and lightweight comfort, often omitting features like excessive noise reduction needed in louder planes. The JET-X was built specifically for the low-noise cockpits of business and commercial jets.
Q: What are the pros and cons of lightweight on-ear headsets for pilots?
A: Pros: Greatly reduce pilot fatigue (less weight, less clamping). Comfortable with glasses/hats. Easier to pack. Easier to hear ambient sounds/colleagues compared to fully sealed over-ears. Many pilots love the minimal feel. Cons: Less noise attenuation than over-ear headsets, making them unsuitable for very loud aircraft. Can sometimes feel less secure (though modern designs are better). Often fewer extra features (like Bluetooth audio).
Q: How does Active Noise Reduction (ANR) compare to passive noise attenuation? Do I need ANR in a jet?
A: ANR uses electronics to cancel ambient noise (especially low frequencies). Passive attenuation blocks sound physically. In loud prop planes, ANR is almost essential. In quieter jets, passive headsets (like the Telex 750 or DC JET Passive) can be sufficient for many pilots. ANR in a jet (like JET-X ANR or Telex Airman 8) further reduces noise, cutting low-frequency hum and reducing fatigue over long periods, making comms even clearer. Need ANR in a jet? Not strictly necessary, but it enhances comfort and clarity. Many pilots who try ANR prefer it. Passive is simpler and cheaper if residual noise doesn't bother you.
Q: Battery-powered vs. aircraft-powered headsets – which is better for me?
A: Battery-powered (like DC JET-X Dual GA) work in any aircraft but require battery management (AA lasts ~50 hrs in Jet-X, with auto-off). Aircraft-powered (like DC JET-X XLR or Telex Airman 8 via mic power) need no batteries if the aircraft has the compatible plug/power. This is convenient for airline pilots flying equipped aircraft (e.g., Airbus with 5-pin XLR). Downside is compatibility – won't work without power/correct plug. Choice depends on: Aircraft equipment, need for flexibility across aircraft types, and preference regarding battery management. The JET-X battery model also has a USB-C power option.
Q: David Clark vs. Telex – why might a pilot choose one over the other?
A: Choose Telex if: You prioritize a proven track record, absolute battery-free simplicity (Airman 8 ANR), slightly lower cost, or if it's standard/familiar at your airline. Choose David Clark JET-X if: You prioritize maximum comfort (lighter clamp, better pads, cooling head pad), potentially better ANR performance, legendary build quality and customer support, and are okay with battery management (or have panel power). Many pilots report the Jet-X is significantly more comfortable for long wear. Both are top-tier tools; personal preference and priorities often decide.
Conclusion
The David Clark JET-X lineup represents a new gold standard for jet pilot headsets, combining the company’s renowned quality with modern lightweight design. Whether you opt for the ANR model for a virtually silent cockpit, or the passive model for a simple, ultra-light solution, you’ll get a headset engineered for commercial and corporate aviation. With its focus on comfort (4.5 oz weight, Outlast cooling pads, plush ear seals) and clarity (ENC/DSP tech), the JET-X ANR makes a strong case as one of the best headsets for commercial jet pilots today. It offers high performance at about half the weight and price of larger headsets. Reviews highlight it as extraordinarily light and comfortable, ideal for long flights in quiet jets. PilotMall is proud to offer the full David Clark JET-X series – try one out and experience the difference.
