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to communicate between the control module and sophisticated technology in the earcups, including new micro- processors. TheA30alsoincorporates a new, smaller boom microphone simi- lar to the latest ProFlight. It proved to be crystal-clear in both hot-mic and PTT environments.
Another feature based upon the ProFlight, the Bose A30 incorporates a toolless swappable microphone/cable assembly. An improvement over the A20, you can easily install it on ei- ther earcup, a feature that previously required a screwdriver to make the switch. It helps simplify cord manage- ment, dependent upon crew position.
With the A30, Bose has reduced the head clamping force by 20% over the A20, something definitely noticeable in use. Bose also lowered the center of gravity towards the earcups, reducing the on-head weight by 6 grams. All of these changes result in more comfort for pilots and passengers.
New Control Module
The active technology in the A30 is divided between the earcups, with their external and internal acoustic sensors, internal speakers, microprocessors, and the control module on the down cable. The new module still offers the same features of the A20, including the 3.5mm input jack, with some substan- tial changes. The apparent external difference is the three-position ANC level selector, similar to the ProFlight. In High, all frequencies are attenuated; selecting Medium reduces cancellation with some frequency shaping. Placing the ANC in Low results in the lowest noise cancellation, however, with a gain in the voice range frequencies (300-3300 Hz) while facilitating ex- ternal communication. This mode is also activated in a single ear cup by Tap Control, a new feature of the A30, which can be enabled with a switch inside the Control Module.
Inside the Control Module is another new switch – Emergency Revision. In the unlikely event of issues with the headset, selecting this switch will inactivate all functions except attenu- ation and intercom. If you look closely, you will also note a micro-USB con- nector. While not discussed in the
documentation, I surmise it is for future software firmware updates in the field.
Tap Control Feature
One of the unique features of the Bose ProFlight is Tap Control which is now integral to the A30. When you want to converse with a passenger or crew without removing your headset, double-tap the outside earcup closest to that person. The ANC isn’t simply reduced to the lowest level; the voice frequencies are enhanced, making it even more effective than removing the headset. This feature is designed pri- marily for lower-noise environments since it won’t activate in high-noise sit- uations to offer sufficient hearing pro- tection. When the conversation is over, double–tap again, or select a different level of ANC. It couldn’t be simpler.
Flying with the Bose A30
Flying 500-700 hours annually, with some months approaching 100 hours, I have ample opportunity to test the efficacy of headsets in various envi-
ronments. Some of my flight days are long and occasionally involve different aircraft types in a single day.
In the jets, my go-to headset is the Bose ProFlight Series 2, which is ex- tremely lightweight and great in the lower noise environments of these aircraft. I also fly with my Bose A20s in some of the jets, including the Cirrus Vision Jet, but primarily utilize this headset in turboprop and piston aircraft (airplanes and rotorcraft).
For our first evaluation of the Bose A30, my son Tigre and I decided to test it in our Cessna T206H on a f light through the San Diego Harbor, including a series of takeoffs and land- ings at our airport, Montgomery-Gibbs (KMYF) in San Diego. The T206 is a great airplane; however, the noise level is exceptionally high on takeoff, which makes it a perfect test environment. When I first put on the A30 in the T206, I could attest that Bose’s claim of a lower clamping force was accurate. The reduced pressure is welcome after
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