Star Wars The Black Series Darth Vader Premium Electronic Helmet

My son was very keen to spend his saved up pocket money on this item. He had seen several unpacking reviews on YouTube and it appears to be highly regarded, I was however sceptical having seen it's price and not wanting this to become a "dust collector" once he is bored with it after a few days.We looked at the other reviews on Amazon together with regards to the packaging, what it can and cannot do, all of which was confirmed via the YouTube videos we watched also. He was still very keen and we ordered it.The item arrived in a large Amazon box, surrounded by packaging paper, with the main product box insider, we had seen a previous review which stated it arrived in the product box with a sticker stuck to it but that wasn't out experience. In addition, the product box was wrapped up, very well I have to add, with bubble wrap, it appeared to be wrapped with the same consideration you would perhaps apply when wrapping a gift for a loved one.My son unwrapped and opened it all carefully and the contents of the box were equally well packaged and secure. We removed two small paper-ties and removed some of the plastic bags which surrounded the main components of the helmet. Within a few minute my son had it assembled and on his head.We saw some reviews which mentioned about the neck component being a bit snug, perhaps for an adult this may be more of an issue, for my son there seemed to be plenty of space (he has a 15" neck). He didn't seem to have any issues clipping the main neck component together, although the mid-section part of the helmet, which does fasten with magnets also has two small plastic dowels which need to align with corresponding holes, with assistance this is very easy, with a bit of practice it becomes second nature. The final part of the helmet simply sat on top and the magnets (clever idea) do there work.The magnets seem strong enough and they didn't separate with a bit of head wobbling. My son mentioned that there was a bit of "misting" on the inside as he was breathing, but he didn't feel it was a significant problem.The compartment for the batteries is cleverly positioned so as to not be visible when wearing the helmet and was easy to open (one small screw) and close. Batteries were not included (as stated) and it requires 2xAAA.The sound effects were very good, the button is responsive and really brought this product to life for my son.As sceptical as I was, being a parent, I do have to admit that this does look to be very well made, it has a high quality and high levels of detail. It is expensive, but, if you are a Star Wars fan, or if you are shopping for one, I don't think anyone would be disappointed with this product.I am unable to find anything negative really to state about this product. As a minor word of warning however, if you think you will need to ever place it back in the product box it comes in - pay close attention to how the individual cardboard packaging components are placed *BEFORE* you take it all out - we have still yet to work out how to get it all back in "as it was", but this is fairly trivial and will be resolved with some patience/time.One very happy teenager and thus, one very happy dad :)

Dealing with pesky rebels, completing the Jedi purge or simply forcing the empire’s might and power across the galaxy is a tough job. It involves numerous skirmishes and frequent though fights and duels. Even if one has the power of the dark side, one’s helmet does not always come through unscathed. So it is great that replacement helmets are now available on Amazon.This is an excellent 3-part helmet that every Star Wars fan will appreciate provided they have the space to display it. It is appropriately very large, certainly compared to the other helmets in our collection. It requires a couple of AA batteries to operate the electronics and hear the Dark lord’s heavy breathing. It is a bit of shame that that it can only be activated by pressing a small button on the chin, that makes it look as mighty Vader has an itchy spot on his chin all the time.But the more annoying thing is the plastic clip system to secure the collar piece/helmet base. The top helmet cover is more cleverly secured by magnet.It is just a large black helmet on the outside, as it should be. But it does have the right level of detail. Moreover, the inside is his quite accurate if you compare it with the reference guides. I’m now considering tho buy some Vader-gloves as well. And maybe take some growth hormone, I need to add about 2 feet in length as the helmet looks disproportionally large when I wear it.Also I should say that the postage label was simply stuck on the original box and it was sent in that manny. Quite a travesty for such an expensive collectable. And very poor judgement from the seller. Fortunately all the pieces are accounted for and the box was little damaged but this could have easily turned out differently. This was not the manufacturer's error but the supplier. Be aware of this when ordering.

This is a three part helmet, consisting of a neck piece, face mask and main helmet piece. All magnetically attached, so nice and easy to assemble. 2 AA batteries provide the breathing effect as well as a 'hiss' sound when you connect the face mask to the neck piece.Quite a lot of packaging, but nearly all cardboard.Face mask has adjustable straps for a good fit. It does get warm wearing it, but mine is mainly for display. I just need the Black Series stormtrooper helmet to go with it!

First off right out of the box this is a fantastic collectors piece. The helmet is huge and comes in three pieces. The neck plate complete with exquisite detail. A press of the activation button on the side plays an authentic laboured breathing Vader sound effect. Then the face plate which locks in place with magnets and is adjusted with elasticated head straps. This stage can be a little tricky to lock in place and again to separate when removing. Another press of the same activation button plays a familiar Vader sound. Then comes the hood section which locks In place with the aid of magnets. All in all a fantastic collectors piece with great attention to detail