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Time to read 6 min
On September 16, 2026, David Clark announced that it is discontinuing its entire H10-XX series of ENC (Electronic Noise Canceling) aviation headsets, effective immediately. That includes the David Clark H10-13X, the hardwired 9-volt headset that gave pilots the familiar green H10 fit with built-in active noise cancellation.
If you fly with an H10-13X or one of its siblings — the H10-13XL, H10-13XP, H10-13HXL, H10-13HXP, H10-56HXL, H10-66XL, or H10-76XL — your headset still works today. What changes is where you turn when it is time for a new one.
David Clark has named the DC ONE-X series as the replacement for most models, but several part numbers have no direct replacement. Below, we break down which models are affected, what replaces each one, what panel-mount operators need to plan for, and what the news means for the passive H10 headsets still found in thousands of cockpits.
David Clark has discontinued its entire H10-XX ENC headset line, including the popular H10-13X, due to an unexpected end-of-life issue with a key component. Here are the key takeaways:
Most ENC models have a DC ONE-X replacement: the H10-13X and H10-13XL move to 43102G-01, helicopter versions to 43102G-06, and low-impedance models to 43102G-03.
Panel-mount XP models need a hardware change: the 43102G-02 requires the 40998G-05 Redel connector kit, installed by a qualified A&P or IA.
Some models have no replacement: headset-only units and military specials require contacting David Clark directly.
Passive H10 headsets are unaffected: the H10-13.4 and its passive variants are not on the discontinuation list.
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The H10-13X was built on the same platform as the H10-13.4, one of the best-selling passive headsets in aviation. David Clark added a hardwired battery module to that proven design, and pilots got ENC without giving up the fit they already trusted.
According to David Clark, an unexpected end-of-life issue with a key component forced the decision. Rather than redesign the H10-XX electronics around a new part, the company chose to retire the ENC line and point customers to its newer DC ONE-X platform.
Per David Clark's published specifications, the H10-13X delivers a 23 dB passive noise reduction rating, with an additional 17–22 dB of low-frequency attenuation when ENC is switched on. It runs on a single 9-volt battery for up to 25 hours and weighs 18 ounces without the cord. Those numbers made the H10-13X a durable, no-nonsense choice for flight schools, freight operators, and weekend flyers alike.
This is the detail that matters most to many readers. The discontinuation notice covers ENC and low-impedance ENC models only. The passive H10-13.4, H10-13S, and H10-13H do not appear on David Clark's list, so the green headset hanging in your flight school's crew room is not going anywhere.
David Clark published a direct crossover for nine H10-XX part numbers. Match your current model to its recommended replacement below. The H10-XX part number is printed on the headset label and on your original documentation.
Eleven additional part numbers — including the H10-13X headset-only unit (40600G-05), the H10-56HX headset-only unit (40614G-03), and several military specials such as the KC-10 and THAAD variants — have no direct replacement. David Clark asks owners of those models to contact the factory directly.
The DC ONE-X is not a repackaged H10-13X. It is a newer platform, and you will notice the differences the first time you put it on.
The DC ONE-X weighs 12.3 ounces, roughly a third lighter than the 18-ounce H10-13X. It uses a lightweight alloy headband, oval over-the-ear leatherette seals, and an Outlast heat-absorbing head pad in place of the H10's steel band and gel seals.
Under the hood, the DC ONE-X runs hybrid ENC, using both feed-forward and feed-back noise canceling. It adds Bluetooth for phone calls and music, runs on two AA batteries for up to 50 hours, and keeps fail-safe operation, so your comms still work if the batteries die. The M-55 electret microphone replaces the H10-13X's M-7A.
If you loved the H10-13X for its firm, secure clamp, expect the DC ONE-X to feel different — lighter and less clamping. If fit is your top priority, try a DC ONE-X on before you retire your H10-13X.
Owners of the H10-13XP and H10-13HXP face the biggest change. The XP models draw power from an aircraft panel module, and their DC ONE-X replacement uses a 6-pin Redel connector instead. That means swapping the installed XP module for the 40998G-05 Redel connector kit.
Airworthiness note: Any change to installed aircraft equipment, including headset jacks and panel modules, must be evaluated and performed by an appropriately rated A&P mechanic or IA, who determines airworthiness and handles the required logbook entries. Pilots HQ does not make airworthiness determinations.
Your H10-13X does not stop working because production ended. Keep the battery fresh, replace worn ear seals and head pads, and inspect the cord and microphone boom regularly. Many wear items are shared across the broader H10 family, so browse our [LINK: David Clark headset parts guides | destination: Pilots HQ blog — David Clark IPC-based parts guide series, ideally the H10-13X parts guide post] to identify the right part numbers for your model.
Yes. David Clark discontinued the H10-13X (part number 40411G-06) and the rest of its H10-XX ENC series effective immediately in September 2026. Remaining inventory may still be available at some dealers while supplies last.
David Clark recommends the DC ONE-X, part number 43102G-01, with a straight cord and dual GA plugs. It is lighter, adds Bluetooth, and runs on two AA batteries instead of a 9-volt.
No. The announcement covers ENC models only. The passive H10-13.4, H10-13S, and H10-13H are not on David Clark's discontinuation list.
Many wear items, such as ear seals, head pads, and microphone covers, are shared across the H10 family. Electronics-specific parts may be limited, so contact us for mor information.
The replacement is the DC ONE-X 43102G-02 with a 6-pin Redel connector, which requires replacing your XP panel module with the 40998G-05 Redel connector kit. Have an A&P or IA handle the installation.
The end of the H10-XX ENC line closes a long chapter for David Clark, but the move to the DC ONE-X gives most pilots a lighter, more capable successor to the H10-13X. Whether you are replacing an H10-13X, planning a panel-mount conversion, or keeping your current headset flying, Pilots HQ has you covered.
Pilots HQ Staff
At Pilots HQ, we’re more than just a store — we’re a crew of aviation enthusiasts and support staff dedicated to helping pilots and professionals get the gear and service they need. Our team shares insights, tips, and stories to keep you flying with confidence.
