I recently obtained the above mentioned headset for shooting as a father's day present. The XV version contains Bluetooth while the X version doesn't. I had actually asked for the X version but my wife thought the BT/'V version would be better for me since it would allow me to hear my phone while shooting and/or using my chainsaw at my hunting property.
The X version MSRP is around $120 while the XV runs around $160. Street price is about $20 less on ebay and/or if you shop around.
I have substantial hearing loss. Without my hearing aids I only have 40% hearing in one ear and 60% in the other. Consequently while on the range I can't hear range commands and with ear plugs or muffs I can't hear anything. I usually have to switch back and forth between hearing protection and hearing aids. Electronic muffs are better but tend to be distorted not to mention they interfere with wearing glasses, wide brimmed hats, while shooting rifles and are uncomfortable to wear in warm weather.
The Walker ear bud headset is worn around the neck and the buds extend to fit into the ear. The buds automatically retract with the push of a button. There is push button volume control for the headset and separate one for the bluetooth. Paired with your phone or other BT device you can answer/talk on the phone or listen to music etc on it. They come with three sets of different size ear plugs and are listed as having a 31 DB reduction rating.
I been out shooting with them twice so far. For the first time ever I was able to hear normal conversation going on around me. I usually have to turn electronic ear muffs all the way up to hear around me but these I had to turn down. I found them so comfortable to wear that I sometimes forget I am wearing them. After shooting once I walked back to my truck and only noticed I had them on when my phone rang.
I don't have a lot of experience with high end electronic muffs but I think these Walker ear bud headset works well for my particular type of hearing situation.
I give them a big thumbs up.
More info below, though that's not where I got them.
http://www.gsmoutdoors.com/shopping/...-headsets.aspx