Clansman Radio Headset

The Clansman lightweight military/infantry headphones were manufactured by Racal-Tacticom LTD, and available in (approximately) 1977 for use with the Clansman series of Army radios such as the PRC-349, PRC-350, PRC-351, and PRC-352. Compatible with the infantry helmet of that time, they have a boom mounted noise-cancelling microphone, neckband, head-strap, and 7-pin snatch connector that connects to a Pressel Switch Box. Their design specification was for use with the MANPACK and "B" vehicle radio sets. The left side has a boom microphone and an additional socket that allows the user to connect an alternative microphone from a respirator mask (anti-gas No. S6). Connection of the respirator microphone automatically shorts the boom microphone. The right side ear cup with driver detach, leaving the ear pad in place. Electrically, the headphone drivers are in series with a centre tap, which allows the user to listen to one side, or both.

Review

These headphones were also similar in design to tank crewmembers’ headsets, which incorporated Amplivox Acoustic Valve (AAV) technology in the cups. This enabled the wearer to open or close them for controlling the level of outside sound coming into the ear cups. The valve system was a special classified bit of technology that protected the wearer’s ears from loud percussive noises like blasts and gunfire.

When I got these, I had many ideas for modifying them such as Bluetooth capability, or making them Smartphone compatible, but in the end, I decided to respect their integrity and keep them as a genuine honest pair. It is outdated technology today, they had their day, and it is best to let them rest in peace. One day, they will become rare and people will be glad that they remained genuine.

Price/eBay

These are usually for sale together with the Clansman arms surplus radios, but can sell alone for around the ten to twenty pounds mark. Over time, they will become rare as the numbers drop, and then they will increase in price.

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