Radio Noise Cancelling Headsets

Radio Noise Cancelling Headsets

Tegan Harris

Written by Aaron Harris — Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor, race engineer and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner. Rex Harris is a qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier for NZ RSM and AU ACMA. Neither role certifies helmets or FHR devices.

Choosing a noise-cancelling headset matters in a motorsport radio setup. A mismatch in connector, microphone or ear protection can lead to missed calls and distraction. Compare the headset style and radio connection with your actual application.

Behind-the-Head vs Over-the-Head Headsets

  • Behind-the-Head (BTH) — a band behind the head and strap over the top, useful for some pit-crew or cap-wearing configurations. Check any helmet fitment separately.
  • Over-the-Head (OTH) — a headband over the head, useful for stationary pit-wall or timing use when no helmet is worn.

Key Features

  • Noise-reducing microphone for engine and pit noise; check the actual model's microphone specification
  • Ear-cup isolation and speaker quality suited to the noise level
  • Push-to-talk placement and glove usability
  • Radio connector and jumper cable matched to your specific radio
  • Dual-radio capability only where the particular headset and control system support it

Choose by Discipline

Circuit and Endurance

Consider ear protection, pit-to-car clarity and crew communications. BTH headsets may work for some pit crews, while the headset worn by a driver depends on the helmet and safety requirements.

Rally and Targa

Check the rally intercom, co-driver headset or helmet electronics as a complete system; not every Stilo, Rugged or other connector is interchangeable.

Drift and Speedway

Consider the need to put a headset on and off between sessions and the noise level at the track.

Off-Road and 4WD

Compare Rugged Radios headset connection, dust exposure, push-to-talk switch and the radio's band and operating permission for your NZ or AU application.

Pit Crew and Race Engineers

Where several channels are monitored, select a headset and control system that supports the required radios and talk groups. Check the exact model's controls before ordering.

Connecting a Headset to Your Radio

A jumper cable must match the particular radio connector and the headset wiring. We can help check compatibility for Motorola, Kenwood, Icom, Hytera and Rugged Radios setups. Contact us with your model details.

Contact Us

  • Rex Harris: 021 682912 — qualified radio engineer and NZ/AU approved radio certifier
  • Aaron Harris: +64 27 449 9654 — racing driver, race engineer and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner for licences
  • Contact us online

About the Authors

Rex Harris is a qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier for NZ RSM and AU ACMA, with motorsport radio experience since 1975. His radio certification does not extend to motorsport safety equipment.

Aaron Harris is a Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor, race engineer and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner. His licence-examiner role concerns licences, not examination or certification of helmets, racewear, FHR or HANS devices.

Harris Race Radios supplies motorsport communications equipment in NZ and AU. Confirm model, connector and current availability before ordering.

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