Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin: Crystal-Clear Communication for Advanced Systems.

• The Peltor ComTac VIII is the next generation of tactical headsets. It is designed to provide effective hearing protection in critical situations. A key feature is the environmental listening (Talk-Through) capability that allows operators to maintain auditory situational awareness.
• It features a noise-cancelling speech microphone for clear communication in noisy environments. This microphone has an embedded 3M patented solution utilizing closed cell foam for improved noise cancelling and dust/water ingress protection (IP68, 3m / 30 min).
• The 10-pin TAC, Amphenol® Nexus® connector (-108) is a key differentiator. It is a 10 Position Circular Connector. It features a Bayonet Lock. The 10-pin connector supports connection to Dual and Multi COMM communication control units. This allows the headset to be specially configured to route left and right audio to each ear in dual-comm setups.
• The headset offers Mission Audio Profiles (MAP), which allow adjustment of auditory settings with frequency shaping to enhance auditory performance in five conditions.
• It has a low-profile headband with even pressure distribution to improve comfort, especially under ballistic helmets.
• The updated earcup design aims to provide the maximum amount of attenuation while limiting cup thickness and offering more space for ears to improve long-term comfort, especially with earplugs.
• It supports dual hearing protection by being able to be worn with passive earplugs or 3M™ PELTOR™ Tactical electronic earplugs (TEP). It even has an Ear Plug Mode to boost environmental listening and comms volume when earplugs are worn underneath.
• It offers various menu functions for customization, including Environmental Listening Mode, Radio Volume, Advanced Settings, Balance, Microphone Volume, Microphone Sensitivity, Battery Status, Battery Type, Automatic Power Off, Warning Signals, Soundscape, Language, and Factory Reset.
• The headset offers Soundscape, which automatically adjusts radio and voice prompt volume and reduces static in continuous noise to improve speech intelligibility.
• Designed for versatility with multiple downlead connectivity options that ensure compatibility with a wide range of communication systems. You can view the 3M™ PELTOR™ ComTac™ VIII 4/5-Con (Here).

3M PELTOR ComTac VIII 10-Pin Review

What are some common accessories to add to the Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin?

• Ops-Core FAST SF Helmet: The ComTac VIII is compatible with most ballistic helmets. The Ops-Core FAST SF helmet is a popular choice among tactical users for its lightweight design and modularity.
• Ops-Core FAST SF Helmet Cover: To provide camouflage, protection, and additional attachment points for accessories on the Ops-Core FAST SF helmet.
• Agilite Mitznefet: A helmet cover designed to break up the helmet's shape for improved camouflage.
• Team Wendy Exfil Ballistic SL: Another ballistic helmet option that is compatible with the ComTac VIII, offering impact protection and integration capabilities.
• Team Wendy Exfil Ballistic SL Helmet Cover: this provides camouflage and accessory attachment for the Team Wendy helmet.
• Caiman Ballistic Helmet: A modular ballistic helmet system that can be used with the ComTac VIII.
• Caiman Over the Rail Helmet Cover: A helmet cover specifically designed for the Caiman helmet system, potentially accommodating the headset's attachment.
• Helmet Counterweight: Used to balance the weight of front-mounted devices like night vision or thermal imagers on the helmet, enhancing stability and comfort.
• Night Vision Devices: Tactical headsets like the ComTac VIII are frequently used in conjunction with night vision devices to maintain situational awareness in low-light conditions.
• Thermal Imaging Devices: Similar to night vision, thermal imagers enhance situational awareness by detecting heat signatures, and their use often complements tactical communication headsets.
• Wilcox G24: A popular helmet mount for attaching night vision devices securely and reliably.

Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin Features & Specifications

The 3M™ PELTOR™ ComTac™ VIII is the next generation of tactical headsets designed to provide effective hearing protection in critical situations. A key benefit is the environmental listening (Talk-Through) capability, which allows operators to maintain auditory situational awareness. The headset also features a noise-cancelling speech microphone, which is telescopic, dynamic, and waterproof (IP68, 3m / 30 min). For enhanced situational awareness in different acoustic environments, the ComTac VIII offers Mission Audio Profiles (MAP) and Soundscape, which automatically adjusts audio settings. It also includes an Ear Plug Mode for use with passive earplugs for dual hearing protection, boosting environmental listening and communication volume. The headset's design incorporates a low-profile headband for comfort under helmets and updated earcups designed for maximum attenuation and improved long-term comfort, especially when used with earplugs. The ComTac VIII is compatible with most firearms and ballistic helmets.

The ComTac™ VIII is powered by 2 x AAA Alkaline (LR03) batteries, providing approximately 50 hours of operating time for environmental listening. It features a sealed battery compartment. The headset utilizes various downlead plug options, including the 10-pin TAC, Amphenol® Nexus® (-108) connector, which supports Dual and Multi COMM communication control units and allows for split audio routing. Other connectivity options include 4-pin and 5-pin connectors. The headset has a straight downlead cable made of Kevlar® Spun, approximately 500 mm in length. It has been tested in accordance with applicable sections of MIL-STD-810H for environmental performance and MIL-STD-461G for electromagnetic interference. The ComTac VIII offers various menu functions for customization, including volume controls, balance, microphone sensitivity, battery status, and language options. It also features Fail Safe Comms, allowing radio receive/transmit without headset power.

Key features of the ComTac VIII 10-Pin:

• Provides effective hearing protection in critical situations.
• Allows users to maintain auditory situational awareness through environmental listening (Talk-Through).
• Features a noise-cancelling speech microphone (IP68) for clear communication in noisy environments.
• Equipped with a 10-pin TAC, Amphenol® Nexus® connector for connection to Dual and Multi COMM communication control units.
• The 10-pin connector enables split audio routing for left and right ears in dual-comm setups.
• Offers Mission Audio Profiles (MAP) for enhanced auditory performance in various operational conditions.
• Includes Soundscape for automatic adjustment of audio settings in continuous noise.
• Features Ear Plug Mode to compensate for attenuation when used with earplugs for dual hearing protection.
• Compatible with most firearms and ballistic helmets.
• Powered by 2 x AAA Alkaline batteries with approximately 50 hours of operating time for environmental listening.
• Tested to military standards for environmental and electromagnetic performance.
• Has a low-profile headband convertible for helmet attachment.
• Offers various menu functions for customization of audio and operational settings.

What´s in the box of the Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin?

• (1) 3M PELTOR ComTac 8 Headset
• (1) Headband or Helmet Attachment (based on model)
• (2) Foam Cushions or Gel Cushions (based on configuration)
• () Battery Lid
• (1) Quick Start Guide
• (1) User Instructions
• (2) AAA Alkaline batteries

Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin FAQs

What is the 3M™ PELTOR™ ComTac™ VIII Headset?

The 3M™ PELTOR™ ComTac™ VIII is the next generation of tactical headsets from the established PELTOR product line. It is designed to provide hearing protection, environmental listening (Talk-Through) capability so operators can maintain auditory situational awareness, and connectivity to communication solutions. PELTOR headsets have been used in combat and combat support operations and are compatible with most firearms and ballistic helmets.

What are some key features of the PELTOR ComTac VIII?

Key features include environmental listening (Talk-Through), a noise-cancelling speech microphone that is telescopic, dynamic, and waterproof (IP68, 3m / 30 min), Mission Audio Profiles (MAP) to adjust auditory settings for different conditions, Soundscape which automatically adjusts audio and reduces static, and Ear Plug Mode for use with passive earplugs for dual protection. It also features Fail Safe Comms, allowing external communications to continue even in case of electronic failure or battery depletion.

What is the purpose of the 10-pin TAC, Amphenol® Nexus® connector?

The 10-pin TAC, Amphenol® Nexus® connector is a 10 Position Circular Connector with a Bayonet Lock and Pogo-pins. It supports connection to Dual and Multi COMM communication control units and allows the headset to be specially configured to route left and right audio to each ear in dual-comm setups. This self-cleaning and compact connector can also enable power management from a radio or similar system.

Does the PELTOR ComTac VIII provide hearing protection?

Yes, the 3M™ PELTOR™ ComTac™ VIII helps provide hearing protection in critical situations where noise levels can cause immediate, permanent damage. It can also be worn in combination with passive earplugs or 3M™ PELTOR™ Tactical electronic earplugs (TEP) to help provide additional protection if required. The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) varies depending on the configuration.

Can I hear my surroundings while wearing the ComTac VIII?

Yes, the headset features environmental listening (Talk-Through) capability that uses external microphones to allow operators to maintain auditory situational awareness while still being protected from hazardous noise. This is intended to closely approximate open ear listening and sound localization. You can also turn Ambient Listening Off for maximum sound reduction when operating in high noise and monitoring a radio.

What are Mission Audio Profiles (MAP)?

Mission Audio Profiles (MAP) are advanced listening modes that allow users to adjust auditory settings with frequency shaping to enhance performance in five different conditions relevant to combat and support operations: Observation, Patrolling, Conversation, Comfort, and OFF.

What is Ear Plug Mode and when should I use it?

Ear Plug Mode is designed for situations where dual hearing protection is required. It boosts environmental listening, comms volume, and voice prompts to help compensate for the additional attenuation when passive earplugs are worn under the headset. It is useful when the user prefers a passive hearing protection device like 3M™ E-A-R™ Classic Earplugs. Warning: Do not use the headset in Earplug Mode without properly fitted earplugs as the increased audio volume may reach an unsafe level.

How long do the batteries last in the PELTOR ComTac VIII?

The headset operates for approximately 50 hours for environmental listening only when using 2 x AAA Alkaline (LR03) batteries.

What type of batteries does the ComTac VIII use?

The headset requires 2 x AAA Alkaline (LR03) batteries. The user instructions also mention that you can use rechargeable LR03NM Ni-MH or non-rechargeable LR03L Lithium batteries. However, there is a risk of explosion if the battery is replaced by an incorrect type.

Can I attach the PELTOR ComTac VIII to a helmet?

Yes, the ComTac™ VIII has an adjustable low-profile rubberized headband that can be converted for helmet attachment. It is also compatible with Accessory Rail Connectors (ARC) for direct attachment to helmets.

What communication interfaces does the ComTac VIII support besides the 10-pin connector?

Besides the 10-pin connector, the ComTac VIII is available with other downlead plug options, including 4-pin Single-COMM (PELTOR wired, Amphenol® Nexus® -38), 4-pin Single-COMM (NATO wired, Amphenol® Nexus® -86), 5-pin Dual-COMM (Amphenol® Nexus® -35), and Direct lead: Selex PRR - LEMO (-90). The 4-pin NATO wired option is backwards compatible with existing DoD PTTs.

Is the speech microphone on the ComTac VIII noise-cancelling and waterproof?

Yes, the speech microphone is telescopic, dynamic, noise-cancelling, and waterproof (IP68, 3m / 30 min).

Where can I find accessories and replacement parts for the ComTac VIII?

Several accessories and replacement parts are available, such as gel cushions (HY80A, HY80-EU), microphone windshield kits (M194/2, M171/2, M42/1), hygiene kits (HY68 SV), headbands (AGM/1), battery lids (1086 SV/1), microphone guides (A47/1, A46/4), boom microphones (MT71/1), and ARC rail attachments (P3ADG47-F SV/2). A molle clip (TKD4003) for PTT adapters and shrouds (TKD5502/1) for PTT buttons are also available (not included). You can contact an authorized distributor like Atomic Defense for high-quality products.

What are some important safety precautions to be aware of?

Users should read and understand all safety information in the user instructions before use. Ensure the hearing protector is correctly selected, fitted, adjusted, and maintained. Improper fit will reduce noise attenuation. Do not use Earplug Mode without properly fitted earplugs. Use only recommended batteries and do not mix old and new or different types of batteries. Always use product-specific 3M replacement parts.

Where can I find more technical details about the PELTOR ComTac VIII 10-Pin?

You can find more technical data specifications in the product's technical data sheet, including details on environmental performance testing (MIL-STD-801H) and electromagnetic interference testing (MIL-STD-461G). The user instructions also provide detailed technical specifications.

Where one can buy Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin?

You can purchase the 3M Peltor ComTac VIII 10-Pin at Atomic Defense, an authorized distributor of 3M Peltor products. They can be contacted for high-quality products and top customer service.