2011General Discussion forum
Headset options and modifications for television camera operators
15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A modified Bose QC2 headset with added dynamic microphone and 5-pin XLR connector can be used for broadcast camera work and provides noise isolation from audience sound
- The Bose A20 headset offers active and passive noise canceling with Bluetooth capability for phone calls, making it suitable for long work days
- Lightspeed Zulu headsets provide active and passive noise canceling similar to the Bose A20
- David Clark aviation headsets have good ambient noise attenuation and can be converted for broadcast communications use, though they may cause discomfort during extended wear periods exceeding 2-3 hours
- In-ear monitor systems paired with wireless belt pack transmitters offer an alternative to over-ear headsets, with the ability to integrate a mixer for multiple audio sources and communication channels
- A modified headset setup can include a mixer positioned between the video output signal and in-ear monitors to allow assistant camera communication and access to multiple production audio lines
- Trew Audio in Nashville offers professional modifications of Bose headsets, including adding microphones, mounting hardware, and 5-pin XLR connectors for broadcast camera compatibility
- Modified headsets with 5-pin XLR connectors are compatible with Sony, Ikegami, Thompson/BTS/Philips cameras, and Clearcom and RTS intercom beltpacks
Depends on
- The Bose QC2 modification approach is an older, budget-friendly alternative to newer commercial aviation headsets
- David Clark headsets may cause physical discomfort when worn for extended periods longer than 2-3 hours
- Bose A20 and Lightspeed Zulu headsets include a volume control module integrated into the cable that cannot be bypassed
- The thread does not specify whether Trew Audio replaces or upgrades the Bose cable during modification