The OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC and the 3M Peltor ComTac V Hearing Defender are both top-notch pieces of communication and electronic hearing protection technology. It can be challenging to choose between these two headsets with their competing features like balance modes and physical durability. In this article, Mission Critical Communications Review will be comparing the two headsets’ design and technological features, and prices.
Read this article to make your final decision—OTTO or 3M Peltor.
DESIGN
When choosing what communications headset is also useful for protecting your hearing, design may not seem like a deciding factor. However, when choosing technology for critical communications, many of the decisions are based on the situation the technology will be used for. Design is a large part of situation-based communication technology.
From headbands to color, design is integral to choosing the right headset.
OTTO NOIZEBARRIER TAC DESIGN FEATURES:
Easy to access volume controls on the left earcup
“Ultra-soft Comply” foam ear cushions
Ear Cushions are easy to snap off and replace quickly
Low-profile earcup
Compatible with major Hi-Cut helmet systems
Comes in black, flat dark earth, and olive drab green
The OTTO NoizeBarrier is filled with design features that make it user-friendly and overall a convenient product. Because the ear cushions are easy to snap off and replace, this OTTO headset is a great addition to your tactical gear. Convenience and efficiency are key for any field situation.
A low-profile earcup that does not impede the user’s movement is pertinent for those who are intending to use this gear when using firearms that are propped on the shoulder. In addition to the low-profile earcups, OTTO ensured their headset is compatible with major Hi-Cut helmet systems. Their detailed design is perfect for any tactical situation.
3M PELTOR COMTAC V DESIGN FEATURES:
Rubberized head band
Removable head band to convert to ARC adapters to use with a helmet
Easy to access battery compartment for quick battery replacement
Comes in coyote brown, O.D. green, and black
The original 3M Peltor ComTac hearing defender came with a leather headband; however, the ComTac V hearing defender now comes with a rubberized headband. The rubber material will be more durable than leather in outdoor situations that may include inclement weather or any kind of moisture. When investing in an expensive product like electronic hearing protection, you want to make sure what you are buying will last.
Moreover, a communications device needs to be versatile. The 3M Peltor ComTac V is able to convert to a headset that is compatible with most helmets from its easy-to-use ARC adapters. The Peltor Comtac V’s design is durable and efficient.
TECHNOLOGY FEATURES
In addition to design, technology is a prominent part of the decision-making when choosing your communications headset. Both the OTTO headset and Peltor ComTac V have outstanding technology features; buyers like you just need to know what they are prioritizing. Electronic hearing protection and communications headsets are constantly improving. Let’s see what the OTTO NoizeBarrier and 3M Peltor ComTac V offer.
OTTO NOIZEBARRIER TAC TECHNOLOGY FEATURES:
Dual Comm Speakers
360 degree situational awareness microphones in each earcup
Selectable signal separation
100 hours of battery life
Noise reduction rating (NRR) of 23 dB
The OTTO NoizeBarrier dual comm speaker changes loud or sharp sounds to a safe level. At the same time, the speakers are able to detect normal nearby conversation and radio communication. Normal conversation can be heard without any technical changes for the user.
Moreover, each ear cup also has 360-degree situational awareness technology; this allows the user to have the ability to locate sounds accurately as if they were not wearing a headset at all. This technology is key to knowing the direction of any potential threats or warnings.
The OTTO NoizeBarrier TAC is considered electronic hearing protection; it is also a communications headset that comes with a noise-canceling boom microphone that has built-in wind and noise reduction technology.
Not only is the OTTO headset protecting you from noise-induced hearing loss with an NRR of 23 dB, but it is also a great tool for clear and effective communication between you and your teammates.
3M PELTOR COMTAC V HEARING DEFENDER TECHNOLOGY FEATURES:
Omni-directional microphones and high-fidelity speakers
Balance mode
Release time
150 hours battery life
Can be changed to a full team communications headset
NRR 22 dB
With omnidirectional microphones and high-fidelity speakers, the 3M Peltor ComTac V Hearing Defender can pick up voice communications and warning sounds. The accurate sound replication has a natural sound with unmatched clarity even with an NRR of 22 dB.
The ComTac V audio also includes balance mode; this adjusts the environmental listening volume between the left and right ear cup speakers. Balance mode then allows the headset user to prioritize audio or adjust accordingly.
The 3M Peltor ComTac V is a flexible product that can be adjusted and altered to fit the user’s needs. For instance, the hearing defender is a great electronic hearing protection headset and with only a few additional pieces it can be transformed into a communications headset.
Follow the link HERE to find out more about how to turn the 3M Peltor ComTac V Hearing Defender into a fully functioning communications headset.
For more information about the 3M Peltor ComTac V go HERE.
The Otto NoizeBarrier version that is compatible with the E.F. Johnson, Harris, Kenwood, and Motorola radios costs $825.00. However, the Otto NoizeBarrier that is compatible with U94-TP120 radio costs $665.00.
The Peltor ComTac V costs $899.97 with all the works—Ear Gels, standard dynamic mic, NATO wiring, ARC Rail Adapters for helmet+Coyote Brown Drawstring Bag from First Source Wireless.
Choosing the right form of electronic hearing protection for a communications job is not easy. We hope this review was informative and helped bring you closer to making your decision between an Otto NoizeBarrier TAC and the 3M Peltor ComTac V Hearing Defender.
Deanna is from Frederick, MD. She attended Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA, to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and Professional Writing and minor in Fine Arts. While at Juniata she worked as a Juniata Assistant Professional Writer for the Provost.
This experience then led her to work as a journalist for Arts Help and a volunteer grant writer for Team Hope after graduating. In her free time, Deanna enjoys volunteering, making pottery, and getting outside.
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