Radio questions

[BK]

Hey whats up guys. I have few questions regarding radios and head sets.

You see, im interested in picking up a decent radio. But i wouldnt know where to begin or whats even practical for airsoft. I was wondering if i could get some opinions on what you guys use and how well it works for you.

Now i understand radios arent a necessity considering field size and practicality, but i just want to add that extra layer of realism and gearwhore to my loadout. The only problem is that i don't really want to shell out for the setup since its not really needed to play.

With that being said, i have an old pair of Turtle Beach x11s that i dont use anymore. I was wondering if it would be possible to mod it to be used as a head set for a radio setup? Im pretty handy with some wire cutters and a hot iron, but i would like to get some input on this before i do anything. I figured since i dont use them i might as well try to get some use out of them and save a few bucks for the actual radio.

I was also thinking about giving it a quick spray paint in tan to sort of mimic the Devgru style head sets.
 
Any input would be appreciated! Thanks!

[-MAD- SARGE]

I think it would be more of a hassle to convert those Turtle Beach x11s to something usable. Not to mention they won't look like anything used by the military while taking away from your goal of adding extra realism.

If you just want the look without the functionality, you could just get these for cheap. Free shipping.
Replica Bowman Headset - http://www.ebairsoft.com/ztactical-z027-elite-tactical-headset-desert-p-3511.html ( I've heard these might not be the greatest if you want to actually use it with a working radio. Cheap Speaker and mic.)

PTT - http://www.ebairsoft.com/element-military-standard-plug-version-p-2593.html (you can configure the plug to match an existing radio if you want to try using the radio.)

Or you could spend more for ComTech II replicas. http://www.ebairsoft.com/ztactical-comt-headset-z041-military-standard-plug-p-2604.html ( I don't know how well these work but they definitely fit the realism look you are going for.)


As people continue to grow in airsoft, hopefully they will find that a radio and headset are basic equipment.  Even though people may not find the need to say much, it is vital so you can receive important information from your command or squad leader, allowing you and your team to make timely and coordinated efforts towards your objective. In some AO's due to the terrain and the vast area of play, it's also part of your safety kit incase you get lost or god forbid have an emergency. I could go on and on why a radio and headset should be standard equipment but the choice is up to the individual.  If you want something usable and reliable, I'm sure others will chime in.  I have had long standing success with my Cavalvy Elite II Headset, with only one minor gripe.  If you want to know more about my experience with my headset let me know.   

[BK]

I like that bowman headset, especially how one ear is free so you could still listen on whats going on around you. Now would those work on any radio with an audio jack?

[-MAD- SARGE]

On the link for the PTT, you will have to select the correct jack for the radio you wish to utilize.  They have pins for the following radios Icom, Motorola, Kenwood, Midland and Yaesu. 

[BK]

alright man thanks!

[glauserred2]

I was thinking about this but its $$  http://www.milsig.ca/featured-brands-iasus-concepts-c-427_33/iasus-nt3-black-ops-2-tactical-noise-cancelling-throat-mic-system-large-p-2821

I would say this might be better for you
http://www.egoairsoft.com/z-tactical-sordin-headset-combat-gear-p-429.html

[-MAD- SARGE]

My strong recommendation is to stay away from throat mics.  They can easily shift on your throat and instead of coming in crystal clear, the only thing everyone will receive is a bunch of muffled garbage. The less things you have to worry about fouling up in the field the better.

[buttfacedmonkey]

I like that bowman headset, especially how one ear is free so you could still listen on whats going on around you. Now would those work on any radio with an audio jack?

I'm not sure about the replicas, but Comtacs amplify ambient sound and temporarily shut off when excessive sounds (gunshots, explosions, flashbangs, etc.) go off. You will actually be able to hear better with noise amplifying headsets like Comtacs or Sordins. I prefer MSA Sordin headsets because they are lower profile and less expensive than Comtacs.

These are replica Sordins with noise amplifying/cancelling capabilities.
 http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=33064

As said before, depending on the radio you have, you will also need a Push To Talk (PTT). There are many more examples than the ones I listed.
http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=32836
http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=32831
http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=42207

If you are going for absolute realism while still maintaining a budget you could put a small WalkieTalkie in a shell that simulates a military style radio. It looks real, but won't cost you an arm and a leg. Besides, for airsoft use, most small walkietalkies are more than you need.
http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=35587
http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=30742

[Bowser]

These are replica Sordins with noise amplifying/cancelling capabilities.
 http://www.evike.com/product_info.php?cPath=30_135&products_id=33064

I just bought that headset and a PTT over the weekend for Lion Claws. Sound amplification and radio worked great.

[Firchckn68]

The core part of our team uses Icom f4s radio as they are easily programmable and most of the time you can find them on ebay for less than $100 and then we just run simple ear piece and PTT mic.  I got my setup for around 80 off of ebay then had to get the programming cable and found the software on line so I can program any f4s radios.  The Icom radio's are better than the motorola as they have a higher output power. 

[deathbydanish]

When you order the bowman/comtac/sordin I would recommend ordering an extra PTT or two. I've got all three replicas and they've worked fine, but I guess for me the PTTs get roughed up enough that they'll die out either before or during a game. I know they can probably be repaired with a soldering iron, but its not like I pack one of those with me when I go out to a game.