You’ve found the aviation headset you want. You've compared features like comfort, noise reduction, battery life, etc. Then, right before you're ready to buy it, you're asked to choose a connector.
If you’re new to aviation, you may be confused when you get asked if you need a dual GA, 6-pin, 5-pin XLR, or a U-174. These different types of headset plugs determine how they connect to the aircraft’s communications system. Choosing the wrong connector may leave you with a nice headset that you can’t plug into the aircraft you’re flying.
In this guide, we'll go over four of the most common aviation headset plugs (GA dual plug, 6-pin LEMO, 5-pin XLR, and U-174), what makes each one different, and what you should know before choosing your next headset. We'll also go over some aviation headset adapters and when it's ideal to use them.
Key Takeaways
- Aviation headsets are available with different connectors because aircraft communication systems aren't all configured the same way.
- GA dual plugs use two separate connectors for microphone and headphone audio and are extremely common in general aviation.
- 6-pin LEMO connectors combine headset connections into one plug and can provide aircraft power when the aircraft is properly equipped.
- 5-pin XLR connectors are commonly associated with commercial aircraft and are often referred to as Airbus-style plugs.
- U-174 plugs use a single connector and are commonly found in helicopter applications.
- A headset model may be offered with several different connector options, so don't assume the plug is determined by the headset itself.
- Adapters are available for certain configurations, but you should always verify compatibility with your aircraft and headset before purchasing.
Plugs Comparison |
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GA Dual Plug
The GA dual plug is an industry standard for fixed-wing aircraft and common in Boeing's commercial fleet. If you're learning to fly in a typical general aviation airplane, there's a good chance this is the connector you'll encounter first. As the name suggests, this dual plug comes with two connectors.
PJ-068: Larger plug used to connect your headphone audio to the aircraft.
PJ-055: Smaller plug used for the microphone connection.
Cons: This plug does not provide power to the headset, so in order to use ANR (active noise reduction) functionality, you will need to use batteries.
Pros: The biggest advantage is versatility. If you regularly move between general aviation aircraft equipped with conventional headset jacks, dual GA can be a practical option.
However, don't assume every fixed-wing aircraft uses it. Aircraft can be equipped with other connector systems, and modifications to an aircraft's audio panel can change what is available at a particular seat.
If you fly an ANR headset with a battery-powered GA connection, carrying spare batteries in your flight bag is also a good habit.
6-Pin LEMO Plug
The 6-pin LEMO has a small circular connector with.. You guessed it... 6 pins. Instead of using two separate plugs like a traditional GA headset, a 6-pin configuration combines the headset's connections into a single connector. One of the biggest perks is that it has the ability to supply power for ANR and Bluetooth directly from the aircraft.
Headsets like the Lightspeed Delta Zulus can use aircraft power or batteries. If you’re flying in an aircraft with the appropriate 6-pin installation, you don’t have to worry about having batteries to power your headset. Simply connect it to the aircraft, and you’re all set.
This plug makes it so you don’t have to rely solely on batteries. If you fly the same aircraft regularly, the 6-pin makes it extremely convenient when using your headset.
Please note: Having a 6-pin headset doesn't mean you can plug it into any aircraft. The aircraft needs the corresponding panel connection, and the installation needs to support the functions your headset requires.
5-Pin XLR – Airbus Plug
The 5-pin XLR is another single-connector option, and as the name suggests, it does have 5 pins. You’ll frequently hear this connector be called the Airbus plug because of its association with the Airbus aircraft.
Various headsets like the Bose A30 headsets, and the Telex Airman 8+ can receive power through the aircraft or by using batteries. Different headset brands also offer 5-pin XLR models, such as David Clark headsets.
If you’re flying commercial aircraft or one equipped with 5-pin capabilities, you’re likely to need this type of plug.
U-174/U
If you’re flying helicopters, you’ll likely need the U-174/U. This single plug is the standard when it comes to civilian helicopter plugs. With that said, other helicopter plugs may look very similar to this one and even fit in the jack, but that does not mean they are electrically compatible. This is where you have to take into consideration impedance and system compatibility. Some plugs will only work for military helicopters, while others only work for civilian ones.
The military helicopters use low-impedance (5 ohms) , and most general aviation helicopters use high-impedance (300-500 ohms). The low-impedance systems are less sensitive for high vibration environments and do not require a bias voltage, whereas the high-impedance systems are more sensitive for lower vibration environments, allowing for bias voltage needed to use electret microphones.
One of the most common mistakes we see from aviation newbies is purchasing a secondhand headset that turns out to have the wrong connector plug. The headset is often a military-issued headset, which then requires a very expensive and unreliable adapter cable to convert. The savings they thought they were getting is completely lost, the headset is problematic, and they are not able to return it.
Can You Use an Adapter to Change Aviation Headset Plugs?
In most cases, yes you can use an adapter to change your headset plug. If you’re constantly flying different types of aircraft, an adapter may be very useful. Some manufacturers offer adapters that can convert certain 6-pin configurations to dual GA or U-174 connections.
Keep in mind that changing the physical connector doesn’t change every electrical characteristic of the headset or aircraft communication system. Always check manufacturer compatibility to help determine whether your headset will work correctly.
Choosing the right aviation headset connector
The aviation headset you buy may vary in the plug you may need. To know which plug you will need, start with the aircraft. Ask your instructor or flight school owner what headset connection is installed.
Then compare that information with the connector options available for the headset you want to purchase. If you fly more than one aircraft with different connections, think about where you'll use your headset most often and whether an adapter could give you the flexibility you need.
If you’re not sure which headset connector may be best for your situation, contact us or visit us in person and our team can help you find the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aviation Headset Plugs
What is the most common aviation headset plug?
The dual GA configuration is one of the most familiar and widely used connections in general aviation. It uses two separate plugs: one for headphone audio and another for the microphone. However, there isn't one connector that's universal across aviation.
What is the difference between a 5-pin and 6-pin aviation headset?
Though the connectors may look similar, these plugs are different should not be treated as interchangeable. The 5-pin XLR is commonly associated with commercial aircraft and Airbus applications, while 6-pin LEMO-style connections are frequently used for panel-powered aviation headsets. Both may provide aircraft power when installed and configured appropriately.
Can I convert my aviation headset to another plug?
In some cases, yes. Adapters are available for certain aviation headset and connector combinations, including conversions between some 6-pin, GA dual-plug, and U-174 configurations. Always check manufacturer compatibility because the physical connector is only one part of determining whether a headset will work correctly.
