FAQs
How do the headsets sound?
Sonetics wireless headsets enable natural conversation in challenging environments; no yelling required. DECT7® wireless technology offers more audio bandwidth, which means the headsets sound great. We combined our industry-leading audio quality with our exclusive auto-leveling, noise cancelling microphone so that you can understand the subtle differences in what you hear even in the middle of a loud work zone.
How does the system work?
Sonetics wireless headsets connect to each other through a Base Station or ComHub using DECT7® wireless technology. DECT7 technology enables you to talk to team members without pushing buttons or waiting your turn.
It’s like being on a conference call. Everyone hears each other whenever someone speaks. You can talk when you want to, interrupt when you need to, and warn when you have to.
Learn more about DECT7 wireless technology.
Can I connect my cell phone?
What’s the range of the system?
How many people can talk on a system?
What do I need to get started?
How long is the warranty?
I don’t feel safe when I wear hearing protection. How are Sonetics headsets different?
Can I wear the headset with a hard hat?
Absolutely. The headband’s fit is adjustable and also reconfigurable into “under-helmet” wear that puts a soft strap over your head and rotates the hard headband behind your neck. It works for most hard hats and ball caps.
We also offer hard hat adapters that mount each ear dome to a heavy-duty adjustable clip that fits the attachment points of most standard and specialty hard hats.
Can I connect a two-way radio?
You can connect virtually any make/model of portable two-way radio. Learn about connecting devices.
My working conditions are harsh. Are the headsets tough?
Sonetics wireless headsets are built to handle rugged working conditions like rain, snow, mud and dust. They’re IP66-rated, dustproof, water-resistant, and operate between -20°F and 140°F.
How many channels are available?
You can select from up to five channels available on the Base Station and switch between them with a button on the headset. The factory default is a single channel. To add more, switch your Base Station to Channel Mode by watching this quick video.
Are replacement parts available for headsets?
Accessories like replacement batteries, ear seals, mic muffs for wind noise reduction, ear dome ruggedizers and more are available from our online store or your Authorized Sonetics Reseller.
How are sound levels measured in industrial work environments?
Two devices are commonly used to measure sound levels in commercial and industrial workplaces.
A sound level meter is used to measure sound pressure levels in decibels (dB). The device is often tripod-mounted and used in a fixed location.
A noise dosimeter is a specialized, portable sound meter used to measure a worker’s noise exposure over time and small enough to be worn for an entire shift.
How do I know if noise levels are too high for my employees?
Measuring sound levels for the purpose of determining occupational noise exposure must take into account a “time-weighted average noise level of 85 dBA or higher over an 8-hour work shift.”
Consult your safety manager or an environmental safety and health professional for assistance with compliance and noise exposure mitigation. Resources are available from OSHA and industry groups.
How do I know whether noise levels are dangerous?
The risks increase with the amount of time you’re exposed to loud noise, and how close you are to the source of that noise. The louder it is, the longer you’re exposed and the closer you are to it, the more you’re at risk for hearing damage.
What are the OSHA requirements for hearing protection?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to take steps to reduce occupational noise exposure when an employee is exposed to a “time-weighted average noise level of 85 dBA or higher over an 8-hour work shift.”
What is a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)?
What is the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of a Sonetics wireless headset?
How does the system work?
Sonetics wireless headsets connect to each other through a ComHub or Base Station using DECT7® wireless technology. DECT7 technology enables you to talk to team members without pushing buttons or waiting your turn.
It’s like being on a conference call. Everyone hears each other whenever someone speaks. You can talk when you want to, interrupt when you need to, and warn when you have to.
Learn more about DECT7 wireless technology.
How long do the batteries last in a ComHub?
You can expect up to 24 hours of battery life from the SCH305 ComHub, and up to 12 hours from the SCH310 and SCH310T ComHubs.
What’s the range of the system?
Up to 1,600 feet with an unbroken line of sight to the ComHub. Hang the ComHub in the middle of your work zone, and you’ve got a secure, portable communication ‘bubble’ that you can pick up and move wherever the work takes you. Your actual range may vary due to work site conditions. Read more on how to maximize system range.
How many people can talk on a system?
Connect up to 20 team members on a portable system. Installed systems (in a vehicle or building) can connect even larger teams. Contact your Sonetics representative for more information on large systems.
What do I need to get started?
How do I recharge the batteries?
How do I know which model of Sonetics headset I have?
A sticker on the inside of the right ear dome displays your headset’s model and serial number. To see it, remove the ear seal and inner foam cover from the right ear dome (the one without the microphone boom).
How do the headsets sound?
Sonetics wireless headsets enable natural conversation in challenging environments; no yelling required. DECT7® wireless technology offers more audio bandwidth, which means the headsets sound great. We combined our industry-leading audio quality with our exclusive auto-leveling, noise cancelling microphone so that you can understand the subtle differences in what you hear even in the middle of a loud work zone.
Is there training available on headset operation?
Get up to speed on all the things you need to know about your Sonetics Portable Wireless System by watching our How-To Video Series.
What are the headset’s basic features?
For a review of the headset’s button layout and basic operation, watch our Basic Features video.
What is Sonetics Stereo Listen-Through technology?
Microphones on the forward edge of each ear dome can be turned on to allow the user to hear environmental sound. Use Sonetics Listen-Through technology when you need to remain aware of hazards, monitor equipment or speak to someone outside your team without the need to remove your headset.
How do I answer a phone call with my APX375 or APX379 wireless headset?
To answer or hang up a call, quickly press and release the Menu (□) button on the left ear dome.
How do I pair a Bluetooth® wireless device to my headset?
To create a new Bluetooth pairing:
1. Turn off the headset, then turn it back on.
2. The headset will enter Bluetooth pairing mode for 10 minutes after power on.
3. From your device’s Bluetooth connectivity options, search for new devices.
4. Once the search is complete, select “Sonetics-HS##.” If prompted for a password, enter four zeros (0000).
Can I connect a Bluetooth® wireless device to the headset?
You can pair a Bluetooth wireless device to either of our APX375 or APX379 headsets enabled with Bluetooth wireless technology. Learn more about connecting devices.
Can I turn Listen-Through off temporarily without having to scroll through individual volume settings every time?
When the Listen-Through feature is active, you may toggle between the OFF volume position and the last selected Listen-Through volume setting by briefly holding down the BACK and FWD arrow buttons respectively.
How do I adjust Listen-Through volume?
Press the FWD and BACK arrow buttons on the right ear dome to change Listen-Through volume.
TIP: Listen-Through volume cycles from OFF to MAXIMUM. There are a total of five volume settings..
TIP: Listen-Through volume controls are independent of team audio volume. Mix in as much or as little as you need to stay safe and remain aware.
What happens if there’s a sudden loud noise while Sonetics Listen-Through technology is active? Could my hearing be damaged?
The maximum sound level that Sonetics Listen-Through technology will let you hear is 95 decibels. If a sound should exceed that (a gunshot or explosion, for example), the headset will instantly shut down the ear dome speakers, protecting you from the sudden noise. You’ll hear a few moments of silence, followed by a gradual return to your previous settings.
What voice prompts are available?
The headset will respond to many button presses, menu selections and other status changes with voice prompts. For example, when you turn on the headset, you’ll hear “Sonetics on. Battery high. Base Station connected.”
How do I wear my headset and ensure it fits me?
For our complete illustrated fitment guide, refer to the User Manual. Here are a few key steps to remember when putting on your headset:
1. Inspect the ear seals (the pads that rest against your head) for damage before use.
2. While wearing, make sure that the ear seals rest against your skull without sitting on any part of your ear.
3. The microphone should be no more than 1/8″ from your mouth.
4. Adjust the headband or soft strap for a comfortable, gentle fit across the crown of your head.
It’s normal to feel a bit of pressure when you wear the headset properly. The seal protects you from dangerous noise levels.
How do I pair my headset to a base station?
How do I know how much battery life is left in my headset?
A status LED on the left ear dome will flash from 1 to 4 times when the headset is powered on. Four flashes will indicate a full charge. A single flash means it’s time to recharge the headset.
How do I charge my headset?
Use the provided 12VDC regulated wall adapter or one of the headset charging cables in your Sonetics Charging Case. For details on vehicle charging, refer to the User Manual.
Can I wear the headset with a hard hat?
Absolutely. The headband’s fit is adjustable and also reconfigurable into “under-helmet” wear that puts a soft strap over your head and rotates the hard headband behind your neck. It works for most hard hats and ball caps.
We also offer hard hat adapters that mount each ear dome to a heavy-duty adjustable clip that fits the attachment points of most standard and specialty hard hats.
Can I connect a two-way radio?
You can connect virtually any make/model of portable two-way radio. Learn more about connecting devices.
My working conditions are harsh. Are the headsets tough?
Sonetics wireless headsets are built to handle rugged working conditions like rain, snow, mud and dust. They’re IP66-rated, dustproof, water-resistant, and operate between -20°F and 140°F.
What is the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of a Sonetics wireless headset?
What is a wireless Base Station?
It’s the component in a Sonetics Wireless Communication System that connects wireless headsets together. The SON150 Base Station can connect up to five wireless headsets.
How do I pair my headset to the Base Station?
Watch this quick video on how to pair a headset to a base station, or review the full instructions in the User Manual.
TIP: If you’re using a Comhub, open the ComHub red bag, remove the black case and open its lid to access the Base Station before beginning the pairing procedure.
What is a ComHub?
The ComHub stores the wireless base station in a portable, battery-operated, weatherproof case. As such, you can pick up the ComHub and carry it around the work zone with you. You also use the ComHub to connect a two-way radio.
How long do the batteries last in a ComHub?
You can expect up to 24 hours of battery life from the SCH305 ComHub, and up to 12 hours from the SCH310 and SCH310T ComHubs. Refer to the ComHub Tech Specs for more details.
How do I know how much battery power is left in the ComHub?
A status LED next to the power button flashes from 1 to 4 times when the ComHub is powered on. Four flashes indicates a full charge. A single flash means it’s time to charge the ComHub.
How do I charge the ComHub?
Use the provided 12VDC regulated wall adapter or the ComHub charging cable in your Sonetics Charging Case. For details on vehicle charging, refer to the ComHub Support.
How do I make sure I’m getting the most range out of my Sonetics system?
For more details on maximizing the ComHub’s performance, read this article.
Can I connect a two-way radio?
You can connect virtually any make/model of portable two-way radio. For details on how it works, check out this short article.
How do I connect a two-way radio to the ComHub?
Watch this quick video on how to connect a portable two-way radio to the ComHub, or review the full instructions in your ComHub user manual.
How many channels are available?
You can select up to five channels available on the Base Station and switch between them with a button on the headset. The factory default is a single channel. To add more, switch your Base Station to Channel Mode by watching this quick video.
How is the tethering different with the SCH305-BT vs. the SCH305?
For tethering to work with a SCH305-BT, the ComHub needs to be set up into Channel Mode: Set up for 2 Channels. This is not needed when you are only using the SCH305 ComHub version. The reason for this is the addition of the Bluetooth module in the SCH305-BT. You can tether with the SCH305-BT ComHub, but you cannot access the device which is Bluetooth paired to the SCH305-BT from the same channel as the tethered group. The tethered group will be on Channel 2 and the Bluetooth paired device is on Channel 1.
Is Broadcast Mode supported on the SCH305-BT ComHub?
Yes. Broadcast mode functions the same way as with the SCH305 ComHub.
Is Channel Mode supported on the SCH305-BT?
Can I pair my Bluetooth two-way radios to the SCH305-BT?
Currently, the SCH305-BT does not support two-way radio transmit and receive functions.
Why can't I pair my Bluetooth device to the SCH305-BT?
A few things you can try are the following:
- Turn off all Bluetooth-enabled devices around you.
- Power cycle the SCH305-BT.
- If you have multiple SCH305-BT ComHubs, make sure you have one powered ON at a time.
Why won't my Bluetooth device pair to the SCH305-BT?
Your device needs to be a cell phone, tablet, or laptop. If you are trying to pair a different device it may not pair to the SCH305-BT.
What Bluetooth Standard does the SCH305-BT use?
Bluetooth 4.0.
Why won't my headset will not turn on?
- Press and briefly hold the power button on the right ear dome.
- The status LED on the left ear dome should begin flashing.
- If the Status LED does not flash, connect the headset to the power adapter and allow it to charge. Allow the headset battery to charge for a minimum of 4 hours to allow for up to 24 hours of operational use.
If the headset will not turn on after performing Steps 1-3, contact Support
My headset powers on for a short time, then powers off when attempting to pair it. What do I do?
- Ensure the headset you are attempting to pair is one designed to pair to a Wireless Base Station (APX377, APX379). All other headset models (APX372, APX373, APX375) do not have the capability to perform wireless communication to a Wireless Base.
- Ensure the headset powers on properly and has a sufficient battery charge.
- If the headset is a model APX372, APX373, or APX375, the headset is operating as expected.
- If the headset is a model APX377 or APX379, attempt to perform a firmware upgrade on the headset.
- After the firmware upgrade has successfully completed, attempt again to turn on the wireless headset and pair it to the Wireless Base Station.
- If the pairing is successful, the problem is resolved.
If the problem continues, contact Service.
Why can’t I hear myself or my team?
Is the ComHub or Base Station powered on? Check the ComHub’s status LED (to the right of the power button). It should be flashing green. If not, press the power button.
If you’re using a stand-alone wireless Base Station, connect it to your power source using the supplied 12VDC adapter. The Base Station’s power LED will show a steady green.
Is the headset powered on? Check the headset’s status LED on the left ear dome. If there is no light, press and briefly hold the power button on the right ear dome. The status LED should begin flashing red, and you’ll hear a voice prompt announce “Sonetics on.”
Is the headset paired to its base station? As the headset turns on, a voice prompt will announce “Sonetics on. Battery (high/medium/low).” If you turned on your ComHub prior, the headset will announce “Base station connected” when pairing is complete. If you don’t hear that prompt, check the headset’s status LED. It will flash green if it’s paired to your ComHub or base station. If it’s flashing red, it’s powered on but not paired. Follow the procedure in Pairing Headsets to Base Stations.
Check the volume level. If your team members can hear you but you cannot hear them or yourself, adjust your headset’s volume level using the Plus (+) and Minus (–) buttons on the left ear dome.
Check the microphone sensitivity setting. If you hear your voice cutting in and out, or your team reports hearing outside noise when you speak, adjusting the microphone’s sensitivity to sound should eliminate the problem. Follow the steps in Adjusting Microphone Sensitivity.
Check the radio/intercom transmit setting. If neither you nor your team can hear your voice, check the headset’s radio/intercom transmit setting. The default mode is Radio VOX with hands-free intercom and push-to-talk for radio transmit. Return the headset to its default transmit mode by following the procedures in the User Manual to access the Advanced Menu and adjust the radio/intercom transmit setting.