Headset recommendations?

[AviationDad]

A non-pilot here but the father of two daughters who are. I bought my oldest daughter a Lightspeed headset during her PPL training years ago. She was the one I was convinced would pursue an aviation career. Five years later, I purchased a Bose A20 for my youngest during her PPL training. I wasn't convinced that my youngest would stick with it, but 8 years later she's is currently down in Wichita doing a second TR at FSI. Her current A20's are 8 plus years old and in perfect shape as I've sent her the Bose refurb kit a few times. I'd like to upcoming ATPL achievement which is expected in a couple of months (she's just nearing the 1500 hour requirement). Keeping in mind that her current A20 is still in great shape, should I get the A30 or the ProFlight Series 2. Alternatively, any other aviation (pilot) related gift item suggestions would be much appreciated.

[khedrei]

Personally I like the A20 better than the A30. But I think its just a fit thing. My ears aren't that big but they would rub on the inside mesh of thr A30. Odd because they appear bigger from the outside than the A20. They also seemed to clamp harder than the A20 even though Bose says they clamp less. And I'm not the only person to say that.

I do not have any experience with the pro flight series.

If she likes her A20s and they are in good shape id say keep them. But if you choose not to and they have Bluetooth and a Lemo plug ill buy them off you

Other gift ideas? I would consider getting her a nice luggage set if she doesn't have one. Garmin pilot watch maybe.

[AviationDad]

Thank you. Much appreciated

[7ECA]

No one can genuinely recommend the right headset for anyone, as it ends up being very dependant on personal preferences. What your daughter needs to do is try on as large a variety of headsets as possible, and find the best fit for her. Asking random people on the internet for the best headset is only going to get you a list of what's available on the market... The best headset on the market, is the one that's comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time, has solid ANR and decent PNR if the battery dies, and the other bells and whistles align with your personal needs.

[LauraJohnson]

Hey, first of all — wow, huge congrats to your daughter getting so close to her ATPL! That’s an incredible milestone, and it’s awesome how supportive you’ve been along the way.
Since her Bose A20s are still in great shape, honestly, you don’t have to upgrade right now, but if you want to treat her, both the Bose A30 and the ProFlight Series 2 are solid choices. The A30 is a bit heavier but really comfortable for long flights and has fantastic noise reduction. The ProFlight 2 is super light, more compact, and great if she prefers something less bulky. It really comes down to what she values more — comfort for long hauls or a lighter, sleeker design.
Other gift ideas could be a nice pilot watch, something personalized for her logbook, or even aviation-themed gear for her office or home.
If it were me, I’d probably lean toward the A30 — it’s an upgrade she’ll really feel on every flight, especially as she ramps up hours. But honestly, either headset is amazing, so you really can’t go wrong.

[BrianLarson]

f she’s currently flying turbines and aiming for her ATPL, the ProFlight Series 2 is usually the way to go. Most airline and jet pilots lean towards it because it’s lighter and designed for those long duty cycles in quieter cockpits. The A30 is a solid choice too, but it’s more suited for general aviation piston environments. Since her A20 is still in excellent condition, you’re not really “replacing” it; you’re just equipping her with the right tool for the next step in her career.
If you’re looking for something a bit different as a gift, consider a nice set of custom-molded in-ear tips, a high-quality flight bag, or even a personalized logbook cover. Those make for fantastic ATPL milestone presents as well!