A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T

Data sheet

A20®
Aviation
Headset
PLUG IN.
TURN ON.
G O F LY I N G .

The A20® Aviation Headset is engineered to be more comfortable and provide more
noise reduction than any headset we’ve ever made, while still delivering the clear
audio you expect from Bose. And now there are more features than ever, including:
a Bluetooth® audio and communications interface; customizable audio prioritization
control; intuitive “plug-and-play” operation; a high-performance microphone and
an optional coil cord. And at just 340 grams (12 ounces), it’s still one of the lightest
active noise cancelling headsets out there. No other headset offers this unique
combination of features and benefits.

KEY BENEFITS
Industry-leading active noise reduction for pilots. Average of 30% greater active noise reduction
than conventional noise reducing aviation headsets.
High level of comfort achieved through choice of materials and distribution of weight throughout
the headset, resulting in 30% less clamping force than conventional noise reducing
headsets. Plus, there’s additional room for the ears.
Clear audio with active equalization for enhanced communications.

1/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Bluetooth® audio and communications interface for connectivity with your communication,
navigation and audio devices.*
Wired auxiliary audio input located on the control module.
Customizable audio prioritization control so you can decide which audio source you want to hear.
At least 45 hours of typical headset use from just two AA alkaline batteries.
Flexible power circuitry with auto on. Headset senses the power source (battery or aircraft) and can
automatically turn on with the aircraft power.**
Distinct left and right earcups with swappable cable for improved comfort and ergonomics.
Certified to FAA TSO-C139 and EASA ETSO-C139 standards.
Among the lightest headsets in the category, with a weight of just 340 grams (12 ounces).
Coil cord down-cable option now available.
*Only on Bluetooth ® enabled models of the A20 ®.
**Available in variants of the headset that use aircraft power for the active noise reduction system.

The Bluetooth® word mark is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such mark by Bose Corporation is under license.

P R O D U C T VA R I A N T S

A20® Headset configurations / HIGH Impedance (Electret) Microphone

POWER IMPEDANCE CONNECTOR INCLUDING CABLE VERSION BLUETOOTH® PART NUMBER

Flex High Lemo 327070-3040 Straight Yes 324843-3040

Flex High Lemo 327070-2040 Straight No 324843-2040
Flex High Lemo 327070-T040 Coiled Yes 324843-T040
Flex High Lemo 327070-R040 Coiled No 324843-R040
Flex High Lemo 327070-J040 Short Yes TBC
Battery High Twin 327070-3020 Straight Yes 324843-3020
Battery High Twin 327070-2020 Straight No 324843-2020
Battery High Twin 327070-X020 Coiled No 324843-X020
Battery High U174 327070-3030 Straight Yes 324843-3030
Battery High U174 327070-2030 Straight No 324843-2030
Battery High U174 327070-T030 Coiled Yes 324843-T030
Battery High U174 327070-X030 Coiled No TBC
Flex High XLR5 327070-3070 Straight Yes 324843-3070
Flex High XLR5 327070-2070 Straight No 324843-2070

A20® Headset configurations / LOW Impedance 5 Ohm (Dynamic) Microphone

Flex Low Lemo 327070-2140 Straight No 324843-2140

Battery Low U174 327070-W130 Straight No 324843-W130
Battery Low U174 327070-X130 Coiled No TBC

2/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

A20® Cable Assemblies / HIGH Impedance (Electret) Microphone

POWER IMPEDANCE CONNECTOR VERSION BLUETOOTH® PART NUMBER

Flex High Lemo Straight Yes 327070-3040
Flex High Lemo Straight No 327070-2040
Flex High Lemo Coiled Yes 327070-T040
Flex High Lemo Short Yes 327070-J040
Battery High Twin Straight Yes 327070-3020
Battery High Twin Straight No 327070-2020
Battery High Twin Coiled No 327070-X020
Battery High U174 Straight Yes 327070-3030
Battery High U174 Straight No 327070-2030
Battery High U174 Coiled Yes 327070-T030
Battery High U174 Coiled No 327070-X030
Flex High XLR5 Straight Yes 327070-3070
Flex High XLR5 Straight No 327070-2070

A20® Cable Assemblies / LOW Impedance 5 Ohm (Dynamic) Microphone

Flex Low Lemo Straight No 327070-2140

Battery Low U174 Straight No 327070-W130
Battery Low U174 Coiled No 327070-X130

T E C H N I C A L I N F O R M AT I O N

Headphone Damage could occur to avionics equipment that is intended for use only with 600 Ohm
headsets. If in doubt, consult the avionics equipment manufacturer.

Impedance Monaural mode: 160 Ohm ON and OFF

Stereo mode: 320 Ohm ON and OFF

Frequency response 15 Hz to 15 kHz

Sensitivity: 92 dB SPL typical, measured at 1 mw, 1 kHz, full volume on a KEMAR ear
simulator.

Microphone (Electret) Bias required: 8 to 16 VDC through 220 to 2200 Ohm.

Sensitivity: Varies depending on bias and AC radio input impedance. Typical output is
600 mV at 114 dB SPL. To assure proper modulation of the radio, it is recommended that
an avionics technician adjusts its input to match the output of the microphone.

Microphone (Dynamic) Impedance: 5 Ohm or 150 Ohm dynamic microphone

Sensitivity: Equivalent to M-87/M-101

3/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Maximum ambient noise level 115 dBC SPL for full active noise reduction performance

Power source Battery-powered: Two (2) AA alkaline

Aircraft-powered: 10 to 32 VDC

Voltage Battery-powered: Two (2) AA alkaline batteries

Aircraft-powered: 10 to 32 VDC

Battery life Alkaline battery life: At least 45 hours in typical general aviation aircraft noise. Duration
varies with battery age, ambient noise levels, temperature, ear cushion seal, and use of
the Bluetooth® feature.

Current Operating: 25 mA in typical aircraft noise

Fuse/breaker recommended 1/4 amp, fast-blow fuse (AGC 1/4 amp fuse) or 1/2 amp circuit breaker

Headset weight 340 grams (12 ounces)

Headset size range Slider not extended: 214 mm (8.425“) H x 161 mm (6.34“) W x 80 mm (3.15“) D
Slider extended: 259 mm (10.2“) H x 168 mm (6.6“) W x 80 mm (3.15“) D

Control module dimensions 38,1 mm (1.5“) H x 38,1 mm (1.5“) W x 125 mm (4.92“) D

Temperature and Altitude Operating: -15 to 55°C (5 to 131°F)

(Category A) Storage: -55 to 70°C (-67 to 158°F)
Altitude: 15,000 feet maximum pressure altitude for full cancellation

Bluetooth® wireless technology 3.1

F E AT U R E S
Features of the A20® Aviation Headset

Features Functions Benefits

Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling® Sound is continuously monitored outside The most advanced aviation noise
headset technology the earcups and at the ears, unwanted reduction technology from Bose fades
noise is identified, and a correction background distractions. It reduces
signal is created to cancel the unwanted significantly more noise and operates
noise. in even louder noise environments
than ever before.

TriPort® acoustic headset design Proprietary Bose technology uses Allows the use of small earcups to deliver
acoustically tuned ports to optimize the high levels of active noise reduction
low-frequency output of the system. performance and audio clarity.

Active equalization Electronic circuitry equalizes incoming Clean, full sound quality that enhances
audio signals. intelligibility and clarity of intercom
audio.

4/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Features Functions Benefits

Side swappable down cable Allows easy attachment of integrated Added convenience and versatility:
cable/boom mic assembly to either Enables owner to attach boom mic and
earcup. cable assembly to either earcup and use
multiple headset configurations with one
headset.

Adjustable boom microphone Provides the means of communication The sturdy boom microphone is
for pilots and passengers. adjustable and allows users to position
it properly in front of their mouth. It is
designed to deliver clear communications
and remain stable without changing
position with head movement.

Proprietary ear cushion design Provides an important acoustic seal Supple, leather-covered, slow-release
between the headset and the head. foam cushions are breathable, durable
and provide an effective, comfortable
seal – even over glasses.

Replaceable ear cushions Provide an important acoustic seal Easily replaceable for maintaining
between the headset and the head. superior performance over the life of
the headset.

Optimized earcup architecture Provides ample room for most Fits most ear sizes, for a more
customers‘ ears without compromising comfortable fit.
overall headset size.

Magnesium alloy headband Provides strong, lightweight structural Contributes to a remarkably lightweight
frame to support the headset and headset while maintaining exceptional
distribute the necessary clamping force. durability.

Adjustable headband sliders Offer up to three inches of adjustment Provide comfortable settings for a wide
in headband length, using high-strength, variety of head sizes and shapes with
aerospace-grade composite material. lightweight but durable components.

Detachable sheepskin headband Evenly distributes the headset weight Plush, soft headband cushion eliminates
cushion across the user’s head. hot spots and provides comfortable, even
distribution of headset weight. Easily
replaceable for maintaining a superior
performance over the life of the headset.

Center torsion spring Mechanical support for the headband Provides a consistent, comfortable fit for
joint, allowing it to be opened or closed practically any head size, with a third less
to fit different head sizes. clamping force than most conventional
active headsets.

Headband stop Prevents headband from closing Prevents contact between ear cushions,
completely when not in use. improving durability.

Nested yoke design Sleek design provides a point of Durable and with low-resistance pivot
connection between the headband and points for a better fit on the head. Allows
the earcups. for a smaller overall headset design.

5/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Features Functions Benefits

L/R markings Identifies the left and right earcups for Ergonomic design of the earcups –
proper placement on the head. angled to match the contour of the ears
while keeping headband centered and
stable – provides comfortable fit with
superior noise reduction performance,
and accurate left & right audio for
material that is provided in stereo format.

Carrying case Custom-designed to fit the headset. Provides a convenient way to carry and
protect the headset, control module and
cables while on the go.

Adjustable clothing clips Provide means to attach the portable Convenience of cable management and
control module and cable to a pocket, positioning of the control module.
belt or other suitable attachment point.

Cable, microphone and Interface and compatibility with a wide Added versatility: Allows the headset to
connector configurations range of civilian and military aircraft, be used in practically any type of aircraft
including options for straight or coil with the ability to use multiple cable
cable as well as several cable configurations.
connectors.

Tethered battery door Provides protection and easy access to Allows the user to easily replace the
the battery compartment. batteries while the door is still attached
to the module.

Integral circuit shielding Shields sensitive electronics from the Significantly reduces EMI – reducing
harsh electromagnetic interference (EMI) annoying audible distractions that
associated with ground and airborne impede clear audio and communications.
transmitters.

FAA TSO-certified/ Certified to FAA TSO-C139 and EASA Provides assurance of proper
EASA ETSO-certified ETSO-C139 standards. performance and compatibility with other
TSO/ETSO certified equipment.

Limited 5-year transferable warranty Limited warranty coverage for parts, Customers have the peace of mind and
labor and second-day return shipping confidence in their initial investment with
expenses of non-abusive malfunction. Bose Corporation.

6/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Features common to all control modules

Features Functions Benefits

Ergonomic portable control module Sleek design houses 2 AA alkaline The module fits comfortably in your hand
design batteries, auxiliary audio input, volume and puts all controls within easy reach.
controls, battery status LED, user
configurable switches, sophisticated
power management circuitry and other
user interface functionality.

Digital microcontroller system A digital microcontroller operates the Intelligent digital system monitors user
user controls and module functionality, controls, battery life, system operation
and monitors battery life. and features functionality to provide
realtime status and automatic shutoff
functionality.

Auxiliary audio input Input jack for external audio sources Customers can enjoy the flexibility
such as tablet computers, GPS and of an external audio source while still
traffic warning systems. benefiting from the noise reduction
performance and comfortable fit of the
headset.

Male-to-male audio cable Provides the means to connect an Simple in-box accessory for convenient
external audio source to the headset. use of external audio sources.

Independent, recessed L/R volume Adjust the headset audio volume level Allows for fast, accessible
controls with midrange detent and for left and right channels. thumbcontrolled volume and prevents
visual volume-level indicator unintended volume-level change.

Power LED and battery-life indicators Indicates when the noise reduction is Provides pilots real-time battery-life
turned on. indication, taking the guesswork out of
when to replace batteries.
Indicates the remaining hours of battery
life (green: healthy batteries, yellow: 2-8
hours, red: less than 2 hours).

Power button Press the power button once to Easy access to headset functionality.
manage the functionality of active noise
reduction electronics. Users can decide the intensity of the
visual feedback from the module to
Press the power button twice to dim the minimize distractions during use.
Bluetooth® and power indicator lights.

User-configurable switches Stereo/mono switch to configure the Gives users easy, quick configuration of
headset for a specific intercom. the control module to suit their specific
needs.
Auto-off (on/off) switch gives user the
option of automatic or manual headset In aircraft equipped with a powered
power control. avionics panel, the A20 ® headset will
power on automatically when connected.
Auto-on (on/off) gives the user the This function is userconfigurable.
option of having the headset power on
with the aircraft or manually turning the
headset on.

7/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Features Functions Benefits

Secondary audio mode selector Manages the different audio signals Allows user to decide how each audio
available to the headset (intercom, source will be prioritized when multiple
auxin) by either muting or mixing secondary audio sources are present.
secondary audio sources.

Automatic smart shutoff Detects that the headset is no longer Guards against draining of batteries when
being used and automatically shuts off the headset is not in use.
power after a period of inactivity.

Features unique to flexible power variants (available in Bluetooth® and

conventional variants)

Features Functions Benefits

Flexible power circuitry with auto-on Senses if the headset can use aircraft Added flexibility for users who wish to
power or not. If so, the headset senses enjoy the benefits of the headset without
the power source and seamlessly worrying about their source of power.
switches from battery to aircraft
power without compromising headset Allows user to change configuration from
performance. aircraft power to battery power with the
use of an adapter and 2 AA batteries.
With auto-on enabled, the headset
switches to and from headset battery In aircraft equipped with a powered
and aircraft power. avionics panel, the A20 ® headset will
power on automatically when connected.
This function is userconfigurable.

Features unique to Bluetooth® variants

Features Functions Benefits

Bluetooth® connectivity Wirelessly connects headset to Users have convenient wireless audio
Bluetooth® devices like tablets and phone functionality while enjoying
and mobile phones for audio and the headset‘s comfort, noise reduction
communications. and clear communications whether they
are connected or disconnected from
the intercom. With Bluetooth®, users
can stream audio from a tablet or other
Bluetooth® device.

Bluetooth® multi-function button Manages the interaction of the headset The single Bluetooth® button provides
with the device, including pairing, audio easy access to multiple Bluetooth® device
transfer, voice dial, answer, reject, redial, functions.
etc.

8/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Features Functions Benefits

Bluetooth® LED Indicates the status of the Bluetooth® Clear visual feedback allows users to
connection (on/off, paired/unpaired). quickly diagnose the status of their
connection to a Bluetooth® device.

Sidetone during calls Enables users to monitor their voice Creates a more natural communications
level by providing their own voice as experience when unplugged from the
aural feedback. aircraft intercom system.

Bluetooth® volume controls Adjusts the volume of the Bluetooth® Users can control their Bluetooth® device
device. volume without need for direct manual
access.

Audio prioritization switch Manages and prioritizes the secondary Allows users to decide whether the
audio signals available to the headset Bluetooth® or wired audio input should
(Bluetooth® vs. wired connectivity). have priority.
This switch is located under the battery
compartment.

AC C E S S O R I E S

Products Description Part number

Installed Lemo Wiring Harness Integrates into the aircraft to provide 323172-0010
single-point connection to the headset.

Lemo to Twin Adapter/ Converts the 6-pin installed version 327080-0010

Lemo to U174 Adapter of the headset to a Dual G/A or U174 327080-0020
battery powered headset.

Carry Bag Premium A20® carry bag 327077-0010

Service Accessory Kit Ear cushions (1 pair), headband cushion, 331366-0010

high impedance microphone windscreen
cover

Headband Cushion Kit A20® Aviation Headset 327078-0010

Ear Cushions A20® Aviation Headset (1 pair) 327079-0010

Windscreen Cover HIGH Impedance Microphone 16003

Windscreen Cover LOW Impedance Microphone 32175

The Bluetooth® word mark is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such mark by Bose Corporation is under license.

9/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu
 A 2 0 ® AV I AT I O N H E A D S E T
Data sheet

Products Description Part number

Aux Cable 3.5 mm stereo, 122 mm length 327081-0010

Clothing Clip A20 ® Aviation Headset 331367-0010

Earcup Down-Cable Cover A20 ® Aviation Headset 331368-0010

NOTES

C O N TAC T DATA

Bose B.V. Europe

Aviation Headset Group – Europe aviation_europe@bose.com
Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend www.bose.eu/A20
The Netherlands
Middle East
Tel. +31 (0)299 390 111 aviation_mea@bose.com
www.bose.eu www.bose.ae/A20

Aviation Sales Support Africa

Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777 aviation_africa@bose.com
www.boseaviation.co.za

10/10

Bose B.V. Aviation Headset Group –  Europe / Gorslaan 60, 1441 RG Purmerend, The Netherlands / Tel. +31 (0)299 390 777
aviation_europe@bose.com / www.bose.eu