First Impressions of Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers
The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers promise a comfortable and effective solution for hearing protection, especially for those who wear glasses or hats. Pro Ears is a well-known name in the hearing protection industry, and these behind-the-head amplifiers seemed like an innovative take on a familiar problem. The advertised NRR of 28dB and the amplification features piqued my interest, as I’m constantly seeking better hearing protection that doesn’t hinder my situational awareness on the range or in the field.
My search began after a particularly uncomfortable day at the range. Standard earmuffs interfered with my cheek weld on my rifle, and traditional earplugs made it impossible to hear range commands. I considered the Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers and several in-ear electronic options from Walker’s and Howard Leight.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the lightweight design. The behind-the-head band felt surprisingly flexible, and the earpieces looked compact and well-shaped. The overall build quality felt sturdy enough, although the plastic felt a bit basic compared to some higher-end electronic earmuffs.
Initially, I was excited about the potential for a more comfortable and practical hearing protection solution. Would these solve the problems with traditional ear pro, or would they fall short?
Real-World Testing: Putting Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers was at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, offering a decent testing environment. I immediately appreciated the freedom of movement these afforded compared to over-ear muffs.
It took a few minutes to find the perfect fit with the included ear tips, but once I did, they felt secure and comfortable. I powered them on and immediately noticed the amplified ambient sounds, which were clear and natural. The gunshots were effectively suppressed, and I could still hear range commands clearly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a couple of months of regular use, the Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers have held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, although I’ve noticed some minor scuffing on the plastic band. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
However, the battery life has proven to be somewhat disappointing. The advertised 15 hours of operating time feels closer to 10-12 in practice. They are an improvement over standard earplugs in terms of situational awareness and comfort, but the battery life needs improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Pro Ears
- NRR: 28 dB. This is a crucial rating, indicating the level of noise reduction provided.
- Color: Green.
- Size: One Size. The inclusion of multiple ear tip sizes aims to accommodate a wide range of users.
- Condition: New.
- Omnidirectional microphones provide situational awareness. This allows users to pinpoint the direction of sounds.
- Pro Ears proprietary DLSC technology.
- Hybrid analog/digital system for natural sounding amplification. This promises clear sound amplification while protecting against loud noises.
- 15 hours of operating time.
- 2 hour charge time.
Performance & Functionality
The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers perform admirably in suppressing loud noises while amplifying quieter sounds. The directional microphones do a decent job of providing situational awareness, although pinpointing sounds isn’t always perfect. I found them particularly effective for conversations at the range, something that’s impossible with standard earplugs.
The main weakness is the battery life, which often falls short of the advertised 15 hours. The audio quality is good, but not exceptional; there’s a slight hiss noticeable at higher amplification levels. Overall, they meet expectations for basic electronic hearing protection but could be improved.
Design & Ergonomics
The behind-the-head design is a significant advantage for those who wear glasses or hats. The lightweight construction makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods, although the plastic band can feel a bit flimsy. The various ear tip sizes ensure a secure and comfortable fit for most users.
The controls are simple and easy to use, even with gloves on. There’s a slight learning curve to getting the perfect fit, but once you dial it in, they are quite comfortable.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers seem reasonably durable for their price point. Regular cleaning and careful storage should prolong their lifespan. I don’t foresee any major repair issues, but the ear tips might need replacement over time.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The plastic construction makes them easy to wipe down and keep free of dirt and sweat.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers come with a selection of different sized ear tips. There aren’t many customization options beyond that. The ear tips are proprietary, so finding aftermarket replacements might be challenging.
They are compatible with most standard glasses and hats, thanks to the behind-the-head design. The lack of further customization options is a drawback for some users.
Pros and Cons of Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers
Pros
- Comfortable behind-the-head design ideal for glasses and hats.
- Effective noise suppression with 28 dB NRR rating.
- Amplifies ambient sounds for improved situational awareness.
- Simple and easy-to-use controls.
- Lightweight and portable.
Cons
- Battery life shorter than advertised.
- Plastic construction feels somewhat flimsy.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers?
The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers are perfect for shooters, hunters, and anyone who needs hearing protection and wears glasses or hats. They are also a good option for those who need to maintain situational awareness in noisy environments.
Those who require exceptionally long battery life or demand premium audio quality might want to skip this product. Individuals with very small or very large ear canals might struggle to find a comfortable fit.
A must-have accessory would be a portable charger for extending battery life in the field.
Conclusion on Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers
The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers offer a solid balance of comfort, protection, and situational awareness at a reasonable price. While the battery life and build quality could be improved, they represent a practical and convenient alternative to traditional earmuffs and earplugs. The Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers provides value for the money.
I would recommend the Pro Ears Stealth 28 HT Hearing Amplifiers to anyone seeking a comfortable and effective hearing protection solution, especially those who wear glasses or hats. They’re a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends time at the range, in the field, or in other noisy environments.