Ok, so this might be a dumb question, but...
Are headsets so expensive just because the word "aviation" is in the product description or are there really many hundreds of dollars in research/design/materials in them?
This is one area in aviation where just because they are aviation, they are more expensive, does not apply - mostly. In most cases, it's the materials and certifications. Above the $600.00 mark though, it's their name your buying, not the materials/production. Below $200.00 you're buying something with the lowest quality of component and value, or they were made long ago.
Aviation headsets are subject to the same scrutiny, testing, and redundancy that most aviation related equipment is. We also use higher quality components for safer, cleaner communication. Also, something that most don't realize is that air pressure/density & +/- Temps play a huge part in anything aviation. Those differences reek havoc on components of any kind. So building them heartier than a standard component is necessary.
I hope that answers your question.
Why are you assuming the cost has anything to do with the cost of production?
Nothing works that way. Just how much do you think an iPhone costs to manufacture?
His assumption is correct in this case. It would be FANTASTIC if the profit margins for our products were anywhere NEAR Apple, or other mass production retailers. However, unless you have our product made by people working for Renminbi or Won, using the cheapest materials available, they are not anywhere close. Plus, this is a VERY niche market, so we don't have the luxury of selling millions of units.
As a point of fact, we run at a very low margin just to try and stay competitive with those horrible cheap headsets, simply because they look the same. But you get what you pay for, and you'll come to us once you figure it out.
Edit: I'm not talking about some of those cool vintage Telex sets. Those are really cool, and quality headsets for pennies on the dollar. But you have to be in to that sort of thing.
\__[Ô]__/;1149185 said:
Hi all,
My club is looking for recommendations for inexpensive but durable headsets to have available for members who don't have one and also to act as spares for when members take passengers. We don't have tons of money for this, so lower end is preferred (if our pilots want something nicer, they can buy their own). They also need to be durable as our members have a poor track record of taking good care of our stuff. Any recommendations?
Also, is there anywhere to get mic covers that aren't grossly over priced? I've seen $3-$6 each, which is absurd for 2 cents of foam and a little rubber band. Would be ok buying them in bulk if that would yield a reasonable price.
There are several options, some mentioned above. It all depends on your budget and what your needs are. There are several options for your current needs.
1) We can provide branded headsets for your club that have your logo and colors on them. We work with many flight schools and clubs and can provide some bulk pricing that would help you with a tight budget.
2) We are currently testing a program with a flight school that may be perfect for your club. It is very inexpensive and may be the perfect solution. Just PM me your contact information and we will send you all the details.
3) You can approach local pilots for "donation" headsets. A lot of us have had several different kinds over the years, and the ones that don't make it into the passenger seats, are sometimes left to the side for "just in case" moments. Perhaps you could acquire some great headsets for nothing from generous friends in aviation.
If you need windscreens, you just PM me what you need, and we'll donate the ones you need. Otherwise, we're finally adding some new accessories on Friday, and our windscreens (for standard electret mics) will be 5 for $10 bucks. I wish it was 2cents worth of foam, and rubber. We'd be rolling in money, but I ate left overs this morning, so that's not happening...
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