We are sometimes asked by our customers why we don’t repair some of our legacy headsets, such as the Original Zulu, Thirty 3G, XL, K and QFR series or the Mach 1 for example.
Some of these original headsets have been “off the market” for 10 to 15 years. These older headsets have proven to be durable and continue to work just fine for some of our pilots. But over time, the technology in producing premium ANR headsets advances, and the technology used to create these legacy headsets simply just isn’t available anymore.
Also, because these headsets are technically complex and made of many parts, some of these key components are simply not available anymore as well. These headsets are manufactured from an international supply chain, and as materials advance over the years, older parts become obsolete.
Lightspeed makes sure that before any of these parts are no longer available, we stock up to help with repairs for as long as we can. At some point these parts just do not exist anymore.
Think of it in terms of other technologically complex accessories and appliances you use every day. For example, the older model television sets, with Cathode Ray Tubes, you know, the big TVs that were heavy and bulky, but worked just fine, were eventually replaced by flat screen televisions. Now the old CRT TVs will work fine until some component simply wears out over time. And as long as those replacement parts were available, you could bring your TV into a specialty store to have it fixed, until you couldn’t anymore.
Lightspeed has options and solutions for your dated technology. The next step from the older model TVs is now the more advanced flat screen TVs that have modern, smart technology. These have become the mainstay in many homes. Same is the case for premium ANR headsets such as the Sierra, Zulu 3 and the Delta Zulu from Lightspeed.
While Lightspeed may not be able to provide a repair on your legacy product, we have provided a path to award value to your older unit that can be extended to an upgrade in technology and innovation. This is known as our Trade Up Program.
When you trade in your legacy headset for a more advanced technology, and a safer aviation headset, like the Zulu 3 or the Delta Zulu, Lightspeed will give you credit for your headset when trading in. This allows you to get the flagship models of today at a discounted price. These newer headsets provide you with a safer flying experience, and improved clarity, comfort, and durability.
Lightspeed still keeps inventory on some of the soft goods for these legacy headsets as well, such as the Original Zulu and QFR Ear Seals and head pad. Sometimes keeping your soft goods fresh is the only “repair” your legacy headset may need.
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