Sennheiser Launches New Line of Boomsets at International Aerospace Exhibition ILA 2006

16.05.2006 Wedemark/Berlin

Airline pilots all over the world depend on Sennheiser aviation headsets for safe and crystal-clear communications. At ILA 2006, the world's oldest air show, which is to be held at Berlin-Schönefeld Airport from May 16 to 21, Sennheiser will launch its latest headset series for the professional pilot, the
HME(C) 46 Series with peak level protection technology.

Combining proven functionality with the latest audio technology and maximum user comfort, the new 46 Series includes both passive models (HME 46 variants) and ANC models with Sennheiser's proprietary NoiseGard system (HMEC 46 variants). Separate in-cable volume controls for each ear offer a special advantage that is welcomed by experienced pilots. The lightweight headsets are ergonomically designed with a two-piece headband for a secure fit, extremely comfortable ear pads and a flip-away headphone system for easy communication in the cockpit.

HMEC 46 HME 46

Combating Noise
In the HMEC variants, the NoiseGardä system provides hearing protection by reducing high-level continuous noise in flight by about 50 percent, such as noise from slipstream and engines. In addition, both the HMEC 46 and the HME 46 incorporate peak level protection - an innovative technology that gives the pilot reliable protection from excessive volume peaks of more than 110 dB, values that can easily occur during contact with air traffic control. A noise-compensated condenser microphone ensures superior speech transmission. Jörg Buchberger, Sennheiser's Industry Team Manager for Aviation, explains, "Our wealth of experience in developing and manufacturing aviation headsets has gone into the new 46 Series, protecting pilots from harmful and stressful noise and offering them highest-quality communications. They can concentrate on what really matters - the flying."

Modular Cable Concept
The 46 Series features a quickly and easily exchangeable single-sided cable, enabling the same headset to be used in aircraft requiring different connector types. The new boomsets are available with all common plug configurations and panel or battery powering. The HME 46 is fitted with jack connectors or an XLR-5 connector, and with or without volume control; the HMEC 46 is additionally available with a 6-pin Redel connector. ETSO and TSO approvals are pending and will be completed for the start of series production. Delivery of the passive HME 46 variants is scheduled to begin in mid 2006, while the HMEC variants with NoiseGard? active noise reduction will be available from Fall 2006.

As one of the world's leading manufacturers of microphones, headphones and wireless transmission systems, the Sennheiser Group with its headquarters in Wedemark near Hanover, Germany, had total sales of about €300 million in 2005. The export share is 83%. Sennheiser has a total workforce of more than 1,650 employees, of whom about 60% are employed in Germany. Sennheiser is active worldwide and, in addition to other partnerships, has its own sales subsidiaries in France, the UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, China, Singapore, Canada, Mexico and the USA.