New FPV Headset and DVR

Headplay SE

I've been using a cheap (like the cheapest you can buy) FPV headset since I started FPV over 2 years ago. It was the HobbyKing Quanum set, which came as a complete bundle with the video transmitter and receiver as well. While it works reliably, it is bulky, uncomfortable, and the screen is low resolution. I had upgraded the video receiver which helped, but it's still kind of bulky and heavy for what it is.

I now have upgraded from that set in a BIG way (literally). I bought the Range Video product called Headplay SE. This is a new and improved version of their popular Headplay HD. It's another "head box" style display, as opposed to a goggle. I prefer the wider, more immersive feel of the large 7" screen, compared to a far-away "movie theater" feel of the goggle displays.

It comes with an integrated 40 channel 5.8 GHz video receiver.

Anyway, it came on Saturday and I can't wait to try it out. I soldered up a new Deans plug and it powers up fine. The unit itself is HUGE. It makes the Quanum set look small by comparison.

However, it is extremely comfortable. It features 1/2" thick, high quality padding everywhere that touches the face. Also, the battery to power it mounts to the back of the head, instead of on top, which helps the weight distribution dramatically compared to the Quanum set. The Headplay even came with a nice bag to transport it in.

Headplay Bag

Face Seal

Another huge improvement with the Headplay is that it came with a DVR (digital video recorder). This means that from now on, I will be recording the OSD to a micro SD card for all flights. This is a convenient way to review what went wrong in a flight if something does go wrong. The DVR is mounted on top of the unit itself, and the wiring is integrated with the power wire harness which runs back to the battery.

DVR