Arrowmax SL24C-35L Stealth Leopard SL Series Covert Earpiece – HD review
Quick take
The Arrowmax SL24C-35L is a listen-only, in-ear covert earpiece designed for RSM and PTT radios with a 3.5mm audio jack. Buyers commonly highlight sharp, crisp voice clarity and a secure, comfortable ear guard fit, but some note that it can be pricey for what you get and that cable length and ear tip fit may not work for every user.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Balanced armature micro-speaker aimed at clear, sharp speech in radio use.
- Ear guard design helps keep the earpiece stable during extended wear.
- Comes with multiple ear tip sizes and replaceable acoustic filters for a more tailored fit.
- 3.5mm jack compatibility for speaker microphones (RSM) and PTT control units.
Cons
- Sound may not be perfectly “100% clear” in every setup, with some static reported.
- Higher price relative to basic earpiece options can be hard to justify for budget buyers.
- 24-inch cable routing may feel short depending on how you wear and route the lead.
- The in-ear section can clog with ear wax, reducing audio until cleared.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed but useful: many comments focus on voice clarity, describing audio as crisp and easy to hear, even when volume is kept relatively low. Comfort and stability also show up repeatedly, with the ear guard and included tip sizes described as making it easier to get a secure fit for long shifts. On the downside, feedback includes price sensitivity, occasional reports of persistent static, and fit or routing limitations, such as the cable being difficult to manage for some users. A smaller but relevant theme is that the earpiece can become clogged (commonly associated with ear wax), which can reduce or block sound until cleaned.
Design and audio approach: what makes it different
This is a listen-only covert earpiece, meaning it’s built to receive audio from compatible radio setups rather than act as a full headset with a mic. The SL24C-35L uses a balanced armature driver, which is typically selected for clearer, more detailed speech reproduction compared to older, more “tube-like” earpiece designs. It also uses a tubeless covert design intended to avoid the moisture and muffled-audio issues often associated with traditional clear-tube kits.
Fit and comfort: the ear guard matters
The ear guard and ergonomic in-ear design are meant to keep the earpiece from loosening during active work. It also comes with multiple ear tip sizes (with an M-size installed) plus replaceable acoustic filters, which can help you dial in comfort and audio. Review feedback suggests the fit can be excellent when the correct tip size is used, but it may require some adjustment if the first-installed tip does not match your ear well.
Compatibility with RSM and PTT systems
The SL24C-35L uses a 3.5mm audio jack and is designed to connect to speaker microphones (RSM) and PTT control units that provide a standard 3.5mm audio connection. A practical caution for buyers: it is not recommended for high-volume or amplified RSM outputs, since the balanced armature speaker is precision audio hardware rather than a high-power amplified device. If your setup is the kind that boosts audio significantly, check compatibility before purchasing.
Cable length and everyday routing
The cable is 24 inches (TPU, clear). That can be enough for many belt-and-ear wearing styles, but some users report it may feel short for their preferred routing, especially if you like to thread the lead inside clothing or route it to a different anchor point. If you plan to conceal the cable path carefully, measure your typical routing and consider whether you might want an extension solution.
Pros and cons, summarized
Who it’s best for
- People who want a discreet, in-ear listen-only accessory for work environments where you need to stay alert and lightly “hands-free.”
- Users with RSM and PTT gear that accepts a 3.5mm audio connection.
- Buyers prioritizing speech clarity and a stable ear fit for longer shifts.
Who should avoid it (or double-check first)
- Budget-focused buyers who compare earpieces primarily on price, since some feedback calls the value high.
- Anyone with audio setups that output high-volume or amplified RSM audio, given the balanced armature sensitivity.
- Users who need a cable length that supports heavy concealment routing, because 24 inches may be limiting.
- People who struggle to keep in-ear devices clear, since ear wax buildup can block sound.
Price and availability
The SL24C-35L is positioned as a premium covert accessory, with pricing around $109 USD based on the current listing data. Availability is limited (listed as “only 20 left in stock”), so if you’re matching it to a specific headset and radio workflow, it may be worth confirming compatibility and your fit needs promptly.
Verdict: is it worth it?
The Arrowmax SL24C-35L is a strong fit if you need a covert, listen-only earpiece that emphasizes clear speech and a secure ear guard for day-long use. The main reasons to pause are the price, potential static or not-fully-clear impressions depending on setup, and practical considerations like cable reach and in-ear clogging. If your priority is discrete comfort and understanding voices during radio use, and you can get the ear tip fit right, it’s an option worth considering.
FAQs
Is the Arrowmax SL24C-35L compatible with any 3.5mm radio accessory?
It’s designed for RSM and PTT devices that use a 3.5mm audio jack. It is intended to connect directly to speaker microphone (RSM) and PTT control units that provide that connection type. If your RSM output is high-volume or amplified, it may not be the right match for this balanced armature speaker.
Does it include a microphone?
No. This is a listen-only earpiece, so it’s meant for receiving audio rather than transmitting voice.
How is the fit supposed to stay secure during long shifts?
The earpiece uses an ear guard and ergonomic in-ear design, and it includes multiple ear tip sizes plus replaceable acoustic filters. Getting the right ear tip size is important for comfort and stability.
Is the 24-inch cable long enough for concealed routing?
For some users, 24 inches works well for typical belt-to-ear routing. Other buyers report it can feel short for their preferred concealment and clothing routing, so it depends on how you wear your radio and manage cable placement.
What should I do if the audio gets quieter or cuts out?
Because it’s an in-ear design, it can become clogged (often from ear wax), which can reduce sound. Cleaning the in-ear portion (carefully) and using the included filters as intended can help restore audio clarity.
Where can I check the latest price?
Specifications
| Product Title | Arrowmax SL24C-35L Stealth Leopard SL Series Covert Earpiece – HD Balanced Armature Speaker, 24" Cable, Ear Guard Fit, 3.5mm for RSM & PTT |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Portable Audio & Video > CB & Two-Way Radios > Accessories > Headsets & Microphones |
| Brand | Arrowmax |
| Manufacturer | Arrowmax |
| Model Name | SL24C-35L |
| Model Number | SL24C-35L |
| Color | Clear |
| Brand Name | Arrowmax |
| Built-In Media | Eartip |
| Age Range Description | Adult |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| UPC | 706212535544 |
| Style Name | Tubeless Covert |
| Audio Driver Type | Balanced Armature Driver |
| Specific Uses For Product | Covert surveillance communications |
| Compatible Devices | PPT Contol Unit, Speaker Microphone, RSM |
| Cable Features | Tubless |
| Additional Features | Amuture Micro Speaker |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Headphones Ear Placement | In Ear |
| Headphone Folding Features | Balanced Armature Micro-Speaker Earphone |
| Earpiece Shape | in-ear |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Ear Placement | In Ear |
| Form Factor | Balanced Armature Micro-Speaker Earphone |
Available variants
Color
- Black
- Clear
Recommended next
BCT22-K2 2-Wire Clear Tube Earphone Compatible with BaoFeng BTECH UV-5R
The BCT22-K2 is a clear-coil 2-wire surveillance-style earpiece with an in-ear tube, push-to-talk lapel/collar mic, and a 2-pin connector designed for select Kenwood, BaoFeng/BTECH, and NEXEDGE/NXDN/DMR compatible models. It’s a practical choice for hands-free radio use, especially in higher-noise environments, with the main tradeoff being a bulkier mic/overall profile versus some slimmer earpieces.