Headset

Overview

A communications headset combines headphones and a microphone on one frame. It keeps both hands free for logging and tuning, which matters in a contest or a long CW session, and it puts the microphone at a constant distance from your mouth so your audio level stays consistent.

Closed-back earcups attenuate room noise, which helps you copy weak signals in a noisy environment and lets you monitor your own sending without raising the volume. For CW work the headphones matter more than the microphone — you will spend far longer listening than talking.

Bands and modes

Band coverage

Modes

Safety note

Using it well

• Set headphone level at a comfortable level and resist turning it up.
• Position the boom to the side of your mouth, not directly in front.
• Check whether your radio supplies bias for an electret microphone.
• Use a splitter so headphones and speaker can be switched independently.