Join us as we dissect and review the Lightspeed Sierra headset. Discover its unique features, connectivity options and endurance on long flights.
Aviation headsets are essential tools for pilots, enabling and enhancing communication and providing noise-canceling capabilities for a safer and more enjoyable flying experience. Among these headsets, the Lightspeed Sierra stands out as a popular choice for both professional and recreational pilots. In this article, we will explore what makes the Lightspeed Sierra headest a top contender in the aviation headset market, helping to inform your decision when it comes time to make that crucial purchase.
The Good
- ANR technology, which minimizes ambient noise, enabling clearer communication and reducing pilot fatigue.
- Integrated Bluetooth, allowing pilots to connect their devices for communication and entertainment.
- Lightweight and Comfortable Design
- Auto shutoff feature which helps preserve battery life, turning off the headset when not in use.
- The headset is compatible with both mono and stereo aircraft intercoms, providing flexibility for pilots.
- ComPriority™ Feature which lowers the volume of any auxiliary device automatically during radio or intercom transmissions, and has clear audio quality.
- The Sierra headset is compatible with the FlightLink, Lightspeed’s free pilot app that captures and replays incoming and outgoing communications.
- The headset is built with robust materials, offering long-lasting durability for frequent usage.
- The headset is manufactured in the USA, rather than off shore.
- Functionality and controls are easy to use and easy to find.
The Bad
- Premium price point
- May not fit all head sizes and shapes equally comfortably.
- Lesser warranty than the Zulu 3
- Only available with GA plugs
Verdict: The premium Sierra ANR headset is a top-tier choice for pilots seeking a combination of comfort, performance, and noise-canceling technology. With its lightweight design, impressive battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, and noise-canceling capabilities, it has earned its place as a trusted companion in the GA cockpit.
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What is the Lightspeed Sierra?
The Lightspeed Sierra is an aviation headset designed to meet the demands predominantly of general aviation (GA) pilots. It features good-quality noise-canceling technology, comfort, and audio quality, making it an ideal companion for pilots of short to medium-length flights.
The headset is also known for its superior size adjustability, making it suitable for anyone.
How long has the Sierra model been around?
The Lightspeed Sierra headset has been on the market for nearly a decade and a half; it was first released in 2010, 3 years after the original Zulu model was released. Since then, it has remained one of the most viable options for pilots looking for a lower-cost entry point into Active Noise Reduction (ANR).
What is the difference between Lightspeed Sierra and Zulu?
The features of the Sierra and Zulu 3 headset models are very similar. Both have ANR and Bluetooth connectivity and can prioritize the airplane’s comms over other audio sources. Both headsets feature the same battery life and turn off automatically to preserve battery.
The differences between the two headsets lie in the construction; the Sierra model is made from a fiber-reinforced polymer, while the more expensive Zulu 3 is made of stainless steel and magnesium. The Sierra’s chord is covered in PVC while the Zulu 3’s chord is reinforced with Kevlar. The Zulu 3 is designed to rival the highest-quality headsets on the market like the Bose A30, hence its more robust construction when compared to the Sierra.
The longevity of the Zulu 3 is reaffirmed by its 7-year warranty, which is two more years than the Sierra.
Can the Lightspeed Sierra be connected to my phone?
The Lightspeed Sierra can be connected to your phone using Bluetooth technology. This feature allows you to make and receive calls, listen to music, or use navigation apps seamlessly in the cockpit. It also features ComPriority, which reduces the volume of any Bluetooth audio at the onset of any radio or intercom transmissions.
How long is the battery life on the Lightspeed Sierra?
The Lightspeed Sierra runs on AA batteries, with 2 batteries lasting an average of 40 hours. It’s important to note, though, that the battery life of the Sierra can vary depending on the usage of the headset, for example, if Bluetooth is used constantly while flying, then the battery life will likely decrease. Therefore, every pilot with an ANR headset must always carry a set of spare AA batteries!
How much does it weigh?
One of the standout features of the Lightspeed Sierra is its lightweight design, weighing in at 16 ounces (450 grams). Pilots appreciate lightweight headsets for their comfort during extended use, and therefore pilots who frequently fly for long periods may consider the A30 or Zulu 3 to be better options, weighing in at 14.2 and 14.6 ounces respectively.
Where is it manufactured?
The Lightspeed Sierra is proudly manufactured right here in the USA, at Lightspeed’s factory in Oregon, where each unit must adhere to high-quality standards and rigorous testing processes.
Pros and Cons
Being a premium headset, the Lightspeed Sierra’s list of features is extensive:
- Active Noise Reduction (ANR): The Lightspeed Sierra headset features ANR technology, which minimizes ambient noise, enabling clearer communication and reducing pilot fatigue.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The headset offers integrated Bluetooth, allowing pilots to connect their devices for communication and entertainment.
- Lightweight and Comfortable Design: Sierra is designed with plush ear seals and a low-profile headband for optimal comfort, even during extended periods of use.
- Auto Shutoff: The auto shutoff feature helps preserve battery life, turning off the headset when not in use.
- Stereo and Mono Switchable: The headset is compatible with both mono and stereo aircraft intercoms, providing flexibility for pilots.
- ComPriority™ Feature: This feature lowers the volume of any auxiliary device automatically during radio or intercom transmissions, and has clear audio quality.
- FlightLink Compatibility: The Sierra headset is compatible with the FlightLink, Lightspeed’s free pilot app that captures and replays incoming and outgoing communications.
- Durability: The headset is built with robust materials, offering long-lasting durability for frequent usage.
- Made in the USA: The headset is manufactured in the USA, rather than off shore.
- Easy to use controls: Functionality and controls are easy to use and easy to find.
However, Lightspeed wouldn’t offer multiple headset options if the Sierra was perfect for everyone! Some of the headset’s drawbacks may include:
- Premium price point.
- May not fit all head sizes and shapes equally comfortably.
- Lesser warranty than the Zulu 3
- Only available with GA plugs
How much does the Lightspeed Sierra cost?
At the time of writing, the Lightspeed Sierra sells for around US$699, according to Lightspeed’s official website. US residents can also enjoy free shipping when purchasing the headset directly from Lightspeed. If the Sierra falls a little outside your budget at this price point, there are likely many second-hand units available from private sellers on sites like Facebook Marketplace and aviation retailers across the country.
Where can you buy the Lightspeed Sierra?
The Lightspeed Sierra aviation headset is available through various channels, including authorized Lightspeed retailers and aviation supply stores (Lightspeed offers a list of these sellers on their website) and online marketplaces.
You can also find Lightspeed headsets and other aviation products on Amazon.
Be sure to purchase from reputable sources to ensure authenticity and warranty coverage.
- Stereo ANR headset with audio input and Bluetooth cell...
Conclusion
The premium Sierra ANR headset is a top-tier choice for pilots seeking a combination of comfort, performance, and noise-canceling technology. With its lightweight design, impressive battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, and noise-canceling capabilities, it has earned its place as a trusted companion in the GA cockpit.
While the price may be a consideration for some, pilots are sure to see a return on investment in terms of safety, comfort, and overall flying experience. Whether you’re a professional or recreational light aircraft pilot, this Lightspeed headset delivers on its promises and is worth considering for your next headset purchase.
What are your thoughts? Have you used a Lightspeed headset before? How do you think they compare to other aviation headsets on the market? Let us know in the comments below!
