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There is a new headset, Chris from the AMN blog has taken a close look at it. The CR-TAC from codeRED Headsets - a noise-canceling dual-muff headset with "hear through" technology, where ambient sounds are electronically amplified. In plain language: a solid active hearing protection.

We all know that "Comtacs" are the gear you don't want to miss, as they guarantee additional radio communication and hearing protection. The most important tool to stay in touch with comrades is a well-functioning radio with an equally good headset and flawlessly working PTT.

codeRED offers exactly that. The CR-TAC is the third headset from the production of codeRED that I use for myself. After having used the TBCH and the throat mic from codeRED without any issues and enjoying the crystal clear sound, it is exciting that codeRED has now developed a tactical headset that provides complete hearing protection.

First things first: NO, it is not an M32 EARMOR clone. It may look like it from the outside, there is a reason for that: codeRED works with a factory that also produces products for EARMOR, so the ear cups of the CR-TAC externally look the same. However, they have significantly changed the design to make it suitable for the target audience of codeRED: SWAT teams, HAZMAT, and tactical units in the USA. Real units ...

Of course, it is also a high-quality, affordable product for everyone else, especially when you know the advantages compared to EARMOR. Why? I have used two EARMOR M32 before, which never made it to a review and were sent back to the shop after a few days. No details here, the overall performance was simply abysmal. That's it.

THE COMPONENTS
So what are those "essential changes" that codeRED can point out? There are Kevlar-reinforced cables to create a strong and robust cable system that can withstand scratches and other mechanical impacts, so they can also survive rough situations.

The newly designed boom mic is the first of its kind. It has a sturdy mounting clip for attaching the microphone to the headset, but it can also be completely flipped up to get it out of the way when not needed. At first glance, the mechanism itself looks solid and robust, guaranteeing a long lifespan.

The microphone is also adjustable in length so it can be tailored to the user's needs. The boom mic comes with a windsock. And for those who want to switch it to the other side because they are a left-handed shooter, the CR-TAC is also ready for immediate use here.

codeRED also informed us that they are working on a dynamic headband microphone, which will soon be available as a spare part for their end customers and will offer even better audio quality.

In addition, the CR-TAC headset is capable of accommodating your favorite laryngophone with a 2.5mm adapter, which can be easily plugged into the microphone port. Manufacturers have also tested various laryngophones on the market with the headset, and they have worked. However, when it comes to transmission quality, it is advisable to stick with the headset as it definitely has higher quality. Still, great modularity right out of the box.

The headset itself is connected to PTTs via a Nexus TP-120 plug according to the US-NATO standard. It is fully compatible with the proven Pro/NX series PTTs, as well as Peltor and MSA Sordin. The eponymous codeRED PTTs are available in many versions that fit the respective radio device. They can be purchased directly with the headset, and depending on the model needed, the price varies. The connection table explains the details.

The internal electronics of the headset have been improved to deliver noticeably better results in gunshot noises. The feedbacks codeRED has received from police officers during the testing phase show that noise cancellation was overall good for both 9mm and .223 (including suppressed rifles). Users were still able to hear footsteps behind them or amplify environmental sounds, for example, by increasing the gain volume.

I used the headset to play around with some TAGInn grenades and was satisfied with how well it handled them. These grenades have a volume of about 130db when detonated nearby. Shooting range must be …

NOISE MANAGEMENT
The most important feature of any tactical headset is noise amplification. The CR-TAC offers five amplification levels that allow ambient and movement noises to be perceived better, or high-noise ambient sounds or gunshot noises to be suppressed.

To activate the headset, press the "ON" button for about three seconds and then adjust the desired volume using the + or – buttons:

- Lowest level of 22db. No amplification, only noise reduction
- Light amplification, light noise reduction
- Normal ambient noise level
- Slight amplification of ambient noise
- Fully amplified ambient noise, attenuated to 82db

codeRED uses the so-called "hear-through" or "talk-through" technology, in which ambient sounds are electronically amplified using the 5 stages of battery-supported sound amplification mentioned above.

The buttons are also very easy to operate with gloves, the user receives clear feedback when pressed, which is a must for a tactical headset. No fancy design here, user-friendliness and pure performance have been kept in mind.

As for the quality: they will last a long time if treated how you would want to be treated...

PERFORMANCE
Once the CR-TAC is put on for the first time, the user will notice that their headset is very solidly made and ensures the best performance for the end user. It sits snugly in place over both ears without exerting too much pressure. And when used for a longer period, the user can also confirm that it maintains its setting.

The silicone gel ear pads provide a good fit around the ears and feel comfortable. The transmitted audio quality is crystal clear, as I know it from other codeRED products that I personally use.

As with all headsets, it is better to wear glasses with slim temples to reduce the pressure of the ear pads on the head. Just a personal recommendation.

The headband itself consists of a thin, self-adhesive velcro that secures the wiring well. There is no additional padding, but to be honest, that is also not necessary. Anyone who thinks they need something like that can get aftermarket headbands for it. There are plenty of options available, and the replacement can be done with just a few simple steps.

How does this active hearing protection work with a helmet? It works. I used it for a day, as seen in the picture. The headband fits well underneath and the pressure from the helmet is also fine. You can deal with it, but there is a more comfortable way.

The CR-TAC is designed for common helmet adapters such as Ops-Core or EXFIL helmets. I think that needs no further explanation. The adapters can also be purchased directly from the codeRED webshop, simply add them to the cart when configuring and purchasing a CR-TAC headset and you're ready to go.

CONCLUSION: Professional quality at a very affordable price. Another big advantage is that it can be adapted to a large number of radios with the adapters. In the USA, the target audience is first responders, but the CR-TAC is also suitable for airsoft enthusiasts who value a good headset at a realistic price, making it their first choice.

If you want to get a unit, visit the codeRED website for US and international orders. If you live in Central Europe, get the CR-TAC at Airsoftwinkel. They are the go-to place for everything related to codeRED here. The CR-TAC costs 149.90 euros there.

codeRED online

AIRSOFTWINKEL online

AIRSOFT-MILSIM-NEWS online

Special thanks to Chris Bravo for the review