Given the construction of the Systema Silent Head Set, it was quite surprising that a larger reduction in firing noise was not achieved. Casual observation during testing clearly indicated a shift in the firing noise towards a dull "thud" versus the sharp "snap" of the sillicon piston head, and this is also observable in the recorded waveform, but the peak measurements show that the maximum amplitude changed very little, even at a relatively short 5ft distance. Any increase in testing distance would clearly further reduce the measured amplitude difference between the two piston heads, rendering any significant concealment advantaged gained from a reduction in firing noise less likely.
Another interesting observation from the recorded waveform is the apparant disappearance of the slight noise reduction of the slient piston head during full auto operation. The shape of the recorded waveform inexplicably reverted to a configuration simliar to the regular Systema piston, resulting in almost the same "snap" of the firing cycle.
One explanation for the lack of expected noise attenuation may be the choice of construction material for the included cylinder head. The stock Marui plastic cylinder head with 3mm of cushioning material clearly represents a better shock absorbing entity than the milled brass cylinder head of the Systema Silent Head Set.
While the construction and quality of the Systema Silent Head Set appears to be top-notch, it does not fulfill its primary goal of providing "ultimate noiselessness (sic)" as determined through our testing conditions. The quality of the firing noise is no doubt altered by the piston head design, but the associated reduction in peak noise intensity is minimal.
