Has anyone used the new versions?

I’ve got the old version, what’s the new one supposed to offer over the old?

The Modular Attached Rail Kit (MARK) 2.0 allows the end user to seamlessly integrate their hearing protection and/or integrated communications into their headborne systems and improve the consistent seal of ear protection. The MARK 2.0 is compatible with most major helmet types and the most popular electronic hearing protection. The MARK 2.0 Kit will work with 3M Peltor™ Headsets right of the package. If attaching to Sordin/MSA™ style headsets, use the SARA Adapters (sold separately).

The MARK 2.0 Kit comes with all hardware for attachment to Ops-Core ARC™ (and similar) and Team Wendy EXFIL™ Gen 2 and 3 rails. An M-LOK™ Adapter Kit is sold separately for compatibility with MTEK and Hard Head Veterans brand helmets. The wider ARC™ backers allow for more compatibility with non-standard ARC-type rails than the previous model.

MARK 2.0 is the lowest profile headset helmet mount on the market. Rather than using a traditional pop-in/pop-out mechanism, MARK2.0 is simply pulled away from the ears and rotated backwards for stowage. The aggressive wire forms ensure the strongest ear cup seal when engaged.

Constructed of impact-resistant polymer, the MARK 2.0 is designed for use in the most austere environments.

MARK 2.0 Kit Includes:

   (1 Pair) Unity MARK 2.0 Adapter Assembly
   (1 Pair) ARC™ Style Backer Plates + Hardware
   (2 Pair) EXFIL™ Hardware

Ear Pro Compatibility:

   Most 3M Peltor™ COMTAC/SWAT-TAC/Sport-TAC/Tactical6 Headsets
   Most MSA/Sordin Supreme Pro™ Headsets (w/ SARA Adapters -sold separately)
   Most TCI Liberator™ Headsets (w/ SARA Adapters -sold separately)
   Most TEA Hi-Threat™ Headsets (w/ SARA Adapters -sold separately)

Helmet Rail Compatibility:

   Ops-Core FAST™ Series Helmets
   Ops-Core ACH-ARC™ Rails
   Crye Precision AirFrame™ Rails
   Galvion Caiman™ Rails
   Galvion/Revision Viper™ Rails

It looks like you get a one-size-fits-all solution for multiple helmet types. The trade off being that the new version appears to occupy more real estate on the helmet rail, which, in my opinion, eliminates one of the primary selling points of the MARK kit over the 3M ARC rail adapters.

Mine came in yesterday, I started fitting them to my helmet last night. KOTA helmet, and I'm going to be trying to use them with Howard Leight Impact Sports. I had to sand the insert a little to fit the KOTA ARC style rails, per the instructions. They make them oversize to allow fitting to cover more rail specs.

Do they work better with the wire not loosing tension?

Obviously I can't comment on a more long term usage performance, but the wireforms seem improved/more aggressive. My understanding is the original MARKs offered better sealing and rail space, but worse stowing that other systems. I'd say about the same now, however the inability to "stop" them on the rail is slightly disconcerting. They are basically friction fit. I didn't sand them till they were loose, but I will probably resurface them slightly with some super glue to ensure a very very very tight fit.

Well that does not sound good at all.

I am waiting on some SARA's to get in to mount my sordins with the 2.0's. I will post back once I get them.