Page 61 - Volume 15 Number 9

New Products Sennheiser S1
Headset:
The Latest in Noise Cancelling Technology
by Dianne White
German audio specialist Sennheiser has introduced a new adaptive digital noise-cancelling headset that analyzes the surrounding situation to achieve what it bills as “superior noise cancellation.”
The S1 Digital headset is equipped with a “Smart Update” button integrated into the ear cup. After pressing the button, the digital circuitry measures the spectrum and intensity of surrounding noises and applies individual filters that are perfectly adapted to the situation. Instead of using fixed filters and assumed values like conventional ANR systems, the S1 continuously updates for changing noise condi- tions, for example during takeoff and when cruising altitude has been reached.
“At the core of the new noise canceling technology is a particularly powerful digital signal processor,” said Jörg Buchberger, Sennheiser business segment manager, aviation. “This processor generates a fil- ter algorithm that specifically reduces the dominant noise proportions.”
In addition, Sennheiser touts that communication in the cockpit and with ATC is clearer. As a person’s perception of higher frequencies begins to diminish in their mid-30s, the S1 Digital has a three-stage tre- ble boost that is separately adjustable for each side and which focuses on speech. In addition, pilots can adapt the sound pressure level individually to their own hearing ability. As in all Sennheiser headsets, the Peak Level Protection feature reliably protects the pilot’s hearing against volume peaks above 110 dB. The boom microphone also helps to ensure clear intelligibility. It compensates for surrounding noise and guarantees clear speech transmission with a fre- quency response of 100 to 10,000 Hz.
Comfort wasn’t forgotten either. The company worked with BMW Group DesignworksUSA to create the ideal balance between comfortable, snug fit and passive noise attenuation. The ear cushions have a
soft zone for the temple arms o the headset.
The S1 Digital headset comes with a carrying case,
a belt clip, a windshield, a cable clip, and a user’s
manual and a quick-reference guide. Priced just under
s to pro- vide extra comfort. A Bluetooth interface allows mobile phones or audio devices to be paired with
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$1,000, the headsets can be purchased from a number
sennheiser-aviation.com. T&T •
of dealers all found on the company’s Web site at www.
SEPTEMBER 2011
TWIN & TURBINE • 59