Tactical headsets have rapidly evolved over the past few years, with both renowned brands and newer companies introducing their own innovative products. Among them, the name that comes to mind for most is the PELTOR ComTacs, and for good reason. Peltor recently launched an advanced communication system known as TMAS (Tactical Modular Audio System), along with a new range of products including the PELTOR ComTac 7 and the more recent ComTac 8.
In this review, we'll provide an in-depth explanation of the TMAS system and cover all the products in this range. Here's what we’ll be discussing:
- Overview of the TMAS system
- Detailed breakdown of the PELTOR ComTac 7's build and features
- A brief look at the ComTac 8
- Additional products: the SCU-300, RCU-300, TEP-300, and the SCU adapter cables
Our personal experiences after years of using these products
Before we dive in, a quick disclosure: We are resellers of these products and were among the first to offer the ComTac 7 and TMAS system to the market. We also ship worldwide. To properly test the communication capabilities, we each bought a TMAS system (which requires at least two users). We extensively tested them to make this review, and as always, our review is objective, with our personal opinions shared at the end.
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What is the TMAS System?
The Tactical Modular Audio System (TMAS), engineered by 3M Peltor, is designed to offer operators unmatched flexibility and scalability. The system includes:
- SCU-300 (System Control Unit)
- RCU-300 (Remote Control Unit)
- Peltor ComTac 7
- TEP-300 (Tactical Ear Plugs)
- SCU adapter cables
The SCU now manages all communication functions, a role previously held by the headset itself. It controls the ComTac 7, TEP-300, and connects up to two radios with two channels each, a vehicle intercom system, and a phone via Bluetooth—all at once.
PELTOR ComTac 7: Build and Features
The ComTac 7 has been completely redesigned, giving it a more modern appearance and eliminating previous design flaws. It is available only in a headband version and comes in Olive, Grey, and Coyote Brown (new to the European market). One of the first noticeable improvements is how lightweight it is.
Headband:
- Made from polymer, making it both strong and thin—ideal for wearing under a helmet.
- Reduced pressure points allow for greater long-term comfort.
- Cable management is now much easier. The cable can be quickly detached and reattached to switch between headband and helmet-mounted setups without needing to cut the headwrap.
Ear Cups:
- The ear cups offer improved noise attenuation, the best yet from the ComTac series, while maintaining a slim profile for easier cheek-to-stock welds.
- The right ear cup has an upgraded battery compartment with a secure design, now holding two AAA batteries on one side.
- The microphone is removable, and its placement has been optimized to allow for left and right-handed shooters without needing to switch sides.
- Buttons have been redesigned for better tactile feedback and now include a center button for the NIB feature (introduced in the ComTac 6), plus volume adjustment buttons.
Unlike other headsets, the ComTac 7 is a completely wireless system, offering unrestricted head movement and snag-free operation. However, it still includes a downlead port, but there are no 3M Peltor Cables for connecting it to the SCU-300.
Active Hearing Protection:
The ComTac 7 selectively blocks hazardous sounds while enhancing situational awareness and providing communication capabilities. It is tested to meet military standards, with an IP68 rating (waterproof up to 3 meters for 30 minutes) and operates in temperatures from -20°C to 55°C. It has an SNR of 29dB (compared to the previous version’s 28dB) and a battery runtime of 50 hours.
NIB (Intra-Team Communication):
The NIB feature allows for headset-to-headset communication without an external radio, using PTT or VOX functions. It has a range of 10 meters and supports four people talking simultaneously with up to 60 listeners.
ComTac 8: Overview
The ComTac 8 replaces the ComTac 5 in the US and the ComTac XPI in Europe. However, it has fewer features than the ComTac 7. For example, it is not wireless, lacks the NIB system, and cannot be combined with the TEP-300.
SCU-300: The Brain of the TMAS System
The SCU-300 is the most expensive part of the TMAS system. It manages four radio channels, a vehicle intercom system, and an audio stream via Bluetooth. It features three audio management modes—Mix, Split, and Surround—for different listening experiences.
The RCU (Remote
Control Unit) offers hands-free control of the comms system, with mounting
options for 1913 Picatinny rails or even a steering wheel. You
can pair up to two RCUs with one SCU.
TEP-300: Tactical Earplugs
The TEP-300 provides additional hearing protection and communication capabilities when paired with the ComTac 7. However, we encountered audio quality issues when using it for communication, possibly due to the radios we use (Kenwood TK-3401D).
SCU Adapter Cables
The SCU adapter cables are essential for connecting the SCU to radios and enable a dual comm system without needing dual comm headsets or PTTs.
Personal Findings
After using these products extensively, we found the ComTac 7 to be a significant improvement over its predecessor. The design, comfort, sound quality, and modularity are all excellent, but the battery life of 50 hours is a drawback compared to previous models.
The SCU-300 offers great control, but placement can impact connection strength, and it may require extra retention to avoid wobbling. The RCU is a great addition for managing comms without removing your hands from your weapon.
Finally, while the TEP-300 performs well in protecting hearing, communication quality wasn't functional with our Kenwood TK3401D Radios.
Conclusion
The TMAS system is the most advanced and modular system we’ve encountered for tactical hearing protection. Despite the steep price, the technological innovation and quality make it worth the investment, with PELTOR proving once again why they remain a market leader.
If you’re looking for the TMAS system or ComTac 8, they’re available at reconbrothers.com, with discounted bundles to help you save.
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