The much-discussed headphones of the parliament cost 8,500 taka

A different issue has come under discussion this time around the inaugural session of the 13th National Parliament—the quality and functionality of the headphones provided to the members of parliament. Several members of parliament, including Mir Ahmed bin Kasem, have complained that the headphones provided to them are not working properly, which is causing disruption to the conduct of the session.

Investigations have revealed that the headphones used in the parliament are the ‘SRH240A’ model of the US-based audio equipment manufacturer Shure. The price of this model in the international market is about 69 US dollars, which is approximately 8,500 taka in Bangladeshi currency. However, since it is the brand’s entry-level or relatively low-priced product, questions have been raised about its performance.

Technically, the ‘SRH240A’ is mainly made for home recording and general use. Although it has basic sound quality, close-back design and comfortable ear cups, those concerned feel that it is not enough for high-quality professional use. This model is allegedly creating limitations, especially in an important environment like Parliament where clear and uninterrupted audio is very important.

There are more advanced models of the same brand such as ‘AONIC 50 GEN 2’, ‘SRH1840’ or ‘SRH1540’ in the market, but the question has been raised as to why this relatively low-cost version was chosen. According to many MPs, there is no alternative to using high-quality audio equipment to maintain attention during important sessions.

All in all, this headphone, chosen due to its affordable price, has now become the center of criticism in Parliament. The issue has brought to the fore not only the technical limitations, but also the need to use quality equipment in important national institutions.