At MyPilotStore we take thousands of calls, emails, and online chats with pilots around the world that have questions about the Bose A20 Aviation Headset. Our FAQ certainly doesn't address everything, but we'll bet it answers a couple of the questions you have right now.
The Bluetooth option on the Bose A20 allows you to connect your A20 Headset to a cell phone for making or receiving phone calls (while on the ground or in an area served by cellular service). New in July 2015, the Bluetooth also allows you to stream music or audio from an MP3 player.
Both the Bluetooth model and the non-Bluetooth model also allow you to plug in your smartphone or MP3 player to via the 3.5mm headset jack and the cable is included.
So, the choice is up to you. If you want to be able to use your cell phone or listen to audio via wireless Bluetooth, get the Bose A20 Bluetooth version. If you are okay with connecting your phone via the 3.5mm headset adapter, go with the Bose A20 non-Bluetooth version.
Delivers an unmatched combination of full-spectrum noise reduction, comfortable fit and clearer sound.
Delivers an unmatched combination of full-spectrum noise reduction, comfortable fit and clearer sound.
Yes, all Bose A20 headsets allow you to connect to your smartphone or MP3 player via a 3.5mm patch cable (included) or via Bluetooth on the Bluetooth model (new in July 2015!). It can also connect to other devices such as a GPS or traffic warning system. An Audio Priority switch on the A20 allows you to control if/when external audio will cutout during an ATC transmission. The A20 headset also has other Bluetooth profiles, including hands-free calling and multi-point, which allows you to connect to more than one wireless device simultaneously.
Yes!
We are currently offering a headset trade-in program that allows you to trade in your current, working, headset towards the purchase of a new Bose A20. We also offer quantity pricing if you are purchasing more than 4 units at a time. Contact us for details. We'll also pay for the shipping and insurance on your new Bose A20.
We also offer a CFI Rebate for qualified Flight Instructors. You'll need to present a copy of your current CFI Certificate, a copy of the most current page in your logbook, and your MyPilotStore receipt for the Bose A20. You will then qualify for a rebate of $150 for the Bose A20 with Bluetooth. You can request the CFI rebate on up to two (2) headsets, once every three (3) years.
For most of you, you'll want the Bose A20 (with or without Bluetooth) with the standard dual plugs found on almost all fixed wing civilian airplanes. These will work on everything from a Cessna 150 to a Boeing 777 and everything in between. The Fixed Wing Portable option is the best choice for people who rent airplanes. If you are flying helicopters, get the Helicopter Portable model with the standard single U-174/U plug. Bose A20 Dual Plugs Bose A20 Helicopter Plug U-174/U.
The panel powered option means the headset has a 6-pin plug called Redel or LEMO instead of the standard dual plugs that you often see. Some people just refer to it as a "Bose style jack". The panel powered option uses the aircraft electrical system to power the Active Noise Reduction technology in the headset instead of getting power from AA batteries. If you are a renter, the panel power option is probably not the best choice for you since many of the planes that you rent will not have a Redel style jack to plug into. Of course you could always get a Bose A20 Panel Power to Fixed Wing Adapter and have both bases covered. Bose A20 Panel Power Redel / LEMO.
Sure! Many newer aircraft are made with options for plugging in either a panel powered headset or a headset with dual plugs. For example, Cirrus SR20 and SR22's have both options. If you own an aircraft without a Redel jack, you can get our panel power install connector kit and have your local avionics shop install it in your aircraft.
Yes, the Bose A20 is a modular system that allows you to replace the entire cable assembly with a different type (i.e. go from military to civilian or from Airbus to standard dual plus). Or, we have adapters that convert from / to almost any combination you might need.
Yes, the Bose A20 meets or exceeds all FAA requirements and is approved by all US Airlines. A Technical Standard Order (TSO) is a minimum performance standard for specified materials, parts and appliances used on civil aircraft. When a company is authorized to manufacture a material, part or appliances to a TSO standard, this is referred to as TSO authorization. When a company receives a TSO authorization, it is assured that the product meets these minimums in both design and production. Bose Corporation meets all and exceeds many TSO requirements.
The Bose A20 uses two AA batteries. Battery life varies based on how much, if any, you are using the Bluetooth feature, but you should reasonably expect 45 hours with a new set of alkaline AA batteries. There is a battery indicator that shows you when the batteries are getting low (warnings at 8 hours remaining and 2 hours remaining).
If you let the AA batteries full deplete, the Bose A20 will still continue to function as a normal passive noise attenuation headset. You will not get the benefit of active noise cancellation or Bluetooth, but you will still be able to transmit and receive normally with ATC.
Yes, the aircraft powered version of the A20 headset has both auto-on and auto-off capability, so when the avionics have been turned on, the headset will turn on automatically once aircraft power is detected. Battery-powered versions of the headset have auto-off, but require that you press the power button to turn on the headset.
Yes, with the Bose A20 you decide if you want the microphone boom on your left or right side.
Yes. The earcups' supple leather-covered foam cushions are designed to provide an effective acoustic seal even over glasses. You should be able to wear your glasses comfortably without significantly diminishing the headset's noise reduction benefits. There is no need to calibrate or recalibrate the headset to maintain optimal performance. The headset adjusts automatically.
Nope. The A20 really includes everything that you will need right out of the box. A carrying case, batteries, auxilary cable for connecting to your smartphone, ear seals, microphone muff, they're all included.
The Bose A20 is covered by a 5 year Bose manufacturer warranty.
It's a lot of money to spend and we want you to be happy with your headset. Take it up for a few flights. If it's not everything that you hoped it would be, return it in the original condition within 60 days for a refund. No risk!
We offer quantity discounts if you are buying 5+ units at one time. Email or call 480-556-0500 for details.
We also offer a CFI Rebate for qualified Flight Instructors. You'll need to present a copy of your current CFI Certificate, a copy of the most current page in your logbook, and your MyPilotStore receipt for the Bose A20. You will then qualify for a rebate of $150 for the Bose A20 with Bluetooth. You can request the CFI rebate on up to two (2) headsets, once every three (3) years.
Yes! We will accept your used, good condition, headset as a trade-in towards the Bose A20. This includes the previous generation Bose X (10) which was also known as AHX-02, AHX-03, AHX-04, AHX-05, AHX-06, AHX-07, AHX-08 as well as headsets from other manufacturers such as Lightspeed, David Clark, Sennheiser, and others. See our headset trade-in program page for more details.
We are happy to accept all US government, school, military purchase orders on Net terms. Purchase orders are also accepted from US corporations upon approved credit. Email or call 480-556-0500 for details.
Call us toll-free at 1-877-314-7575, email service@mypilotstore.com or look for the 'Questions? Chat with us!" button in the lower right corner during business hours. A well trained, non-commissioned, crew member will be happy to assist you promptly.