MSA Safety Inc, also known as Mine Safety Appliances was partially founded by Thomas Edison in 1914 to develop a battery powered camp lamp for miners which helpe prevent methane-related explosions. Sordin AB is a Swedish company founded in 1989 and has been recognized for developing advanced hearing protective devices. In May 2004, MSA acquired Sordin AB and this has greatly expanded their product line. Which brings me to the MSA Sordin Supreme Pro Earmuffs.
I actually acquired these a while ago and have been using them for range days with delight. Out of the box the headsets come with 2 AAA batteries, an informational booklet and a 3.5mm auxiliary cable with a male headphone connector on either end. You will notice that the front of the box shows both versions of the Supreme Pro aka. Avenger series one without the boom mic and on the back of the box, and a version with a boom mic on the front of the box. The price difference between the two, is about $350. SRS Tactical does make a comms conversion kit for the MSA Sordin Supreme Pros that allows you to add comms to your headset for about $232 but for that price, you might as well shell out the extra couple green backs and get the AVENGER MIL Spec Tactical Communications Headset – neckband. This is not a knock against the MSA Sordin Supreme Pro, just a nice to know for any shoppers.
Features:
- Compression Technology (82db Max)
- Never miss range commands or conversation Amplifies Up to Four Times
- Unassisted Hearing
- Slimmest Profile for Best Comfort
- Two Microphones for True Digital Stereo Directional Sound
- 600 Hour Battery Life On Two AAA Batteries
- Automatic Shutoff after 4 Hours
- Noise Reduction Rating of 18 db
- Waterproof Battery Compartment
- Lacquered Circuit Boards
- AUX input for connecting external audio sources (iPods, dog trackers, radios) 3.5mm Mono Jack Plug Wire (included)
- Folding headband for easy carrying and storage
- Audible Push-Button Technology
- Two-Year Guaranteed Warranty by Manufacturer
- Weight Only 11 Ounces
Manufacturer Specifications:
- Weight: 11 oz
- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 18 dB
- Compression Technology: 82 dB Max.
- Power: 2 AAA Alkaline
- Aux Input Jack: 3.5mmProduct Information AUX input permits connection to external sources, susch as communication radios, dog tracking devices and mp3 players
The MSA Sordin Supreme Pros feature 2 rounded earmuffs which are flat and have a considerably low profile allowing them to fit nicely under most helmets. Unlike the PELTOR Comtac 2 headsets that have a battery compartment on each cup, the MSA Sordin Supreme Pros are powered by 2x AAA batteries on the left cup. To access the battery compartment the user simply turns the metal screwcap counter clockwise and inserts the batteries in a stacked configuration. The function buttons on the MSA Sordin Supreme Pros are located in a half moon shaped depression on the lower area on the right cup. This design minimizes the risk of the buttons accidentally being pressed. The MSA Sordin Supreme Pros have 3 buttons which are raised enough to allow tactile operation of the headsets even while wearing gloves. The button in the middle is the power button, the one to the front turns the volume up while the one to the rear turns the volume down.
Some people will complain that they prefer a more pronounced indicator on the buttons so that they know which button they are pressing. I do find the plus and minus buttons for volume to be hard to feel on bare skin, but personally this isn’t really an issue for me. It’s easy enough to remember where the plus and minus are for volume. Keep in mind too that there is an audible chirp each time you press a button so you are well aware if you have actually changed a setting. One of the best features the MSA Sordin Supreme Pros has is that it remembers your last volume setting and instantly restores it when you turn them back on.
These are completely waterproof and made to withstand the rugged outdoors. The headband consists of a cloth/mesh, adjustable suspension strap at the top and a wire tension band at the rear which is covered by some fabric for comfort. The headsets are very light and comfortable to wear, but may require some adjustment based on personal requirements. I also found the MSA Supreme Pro also fit comfortable over my head with a ballcap or toque on.
As far as performance, the MSA Sordin Supreme Pros sound amplification is incredible and really does sound like you aren’t even wearing earmuffs. The microphones on the front of the muffs simulate natural human hearing orientation and the volume can be turned up to the point where you can ear a twig snap. On the flip side, you can also turn it down to the point where a freight train can barrel past you and you could sleep comfortably. The package says you should see a reduction of 35-40 percent of hazardous noise and I found this to be a good sweet spot for range use. As far as the battery life, MSA says you’ll get at least 600 hours out of the batteries.
In conclusion, the question really comes down to whether or not it’s worthwhile spending $250 on these. That’ll be a personal question for yourself, if you are just a casual shooter hitting the range twice a month for an hour, then you probably can justify sticking with the $80 ear protection. For everyone else, do your ears a favour and grab the MSA Supreme Pros. 8/10.
Smooth