Top 12 motorcycle headsets

04.03.2019
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Moto, Moto
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Anna Asoshina

A motorcycle headset is a device that allows you to make and receive phone calls without removing your helmet, as well as control your phone exclusively with voice commands. This is the main function, to which are added secondary ones, for example, the ability to communicate with other motorcyclists and passengers, or listen to music and voice prompts from the navigator.

Of course, the higher the class of the intercom, the wider the functionality, and, as a result, the higher the price. For example, entry-level headsets do not allow you to connect conference calls at all, limiting yourself to the ability to communicate only between two devices. “Top” models allow you to connect up to nine devices with each other for two-way communication, in the so-called “intercom” mode, and up to fifteen in conference mode.

Sometimes a motorcycle headset can be synchronized not with one device, but with two at once. As an example of a real-life application, this scheme makes it possible to receive voice instructions from a navigator while remaining connected. To control and configure gadgets, applications for smartphones and personal computers are usually used.

Devices may also differ in range. While entry-level devices “catch” each other at a distance of 100 to 300 meters (with the exception of the Sena SMH5-FM, which, according to the manufacturer, operates within a radius of 700 meters), top-end models remain accessible even when between them 1.5-2 kilometers.

When choosing, you should take into account one more important detail - not all headsets are compatible, so you should look in favor of models that can synchronize with devices from other brands - this is practical and convenient. In addition, you should make sure that the manufacturer guarantees the device’s moisture protection, and also pay attention to additional options and equipment.

For example, Midland motorcycle headsets have an additional brake light, the red LED of which lights up during sudden stops, which indirectly increases the level of passive safety of the driver. In addition, many manufacturers sometimes offer a DSP system that is responsible for noise suppression.

We will consider all the main models existing on the market, dividing them into segments depending on functionality and cost. Let's start with the lowest price segment, where you can buy a single device for less than 10 thousand rubles. Of course, it is always more profitable to buy in pairs, but the second gadget is not always needed, so we will consider both configuration options.

Cardo Scala Rider Q1

An entry-level headset from Cardo will cost 9,260 rubles for one gadget and 16,500 for a pair. Scala Rider Q1 can synchronize simultaneously with two mobile phones via Bluetooth, has an FM radio with RDS and offers the ability to simultaneously listen to music with a passenger, but can only work with Scala Rider Q1 brand gadgets and only within a radius of 10 meters. This is due to the fact that the Q1 model is intended to be used as a means of communication between the driver and the passenger.

The headset is equipped with a noise reduction system, IP67 water protection, and the ability to control the functions of accepting or rejecting calls using voice commands. In addition, the Scala Rider Q1 headset has an interesting feature - the ability to automatically search for similar devices and communicate with them, thanks to which you can exchange information with surrounding riders.

Estimated cost

The price of the product depends on the country of origin, seller and model. Both the equipment and the included functionality have a significant impact. For Sena brand devices, prices start from $120 for budget models and reach $450 for the most competitive and functional model 20s.

Scala Rider Scala Rider offers its lineup starting at $200 for the Rider Q1. The high end of its price range is the $600 G9X Powerset x2.

If you want to buy a liner for a motorcycle helmet, read our article first.
Photo of Honda VFR 800, a wonderful bike for real men.

Sena SMH5-FM

Quite an old model, later supplemented with the FM radio function, as indicated in the name. The radio, like its competitors, allows you to automatically select a wave and memorize several stations at once. The headset can be connected via Bluetooth 3.0 to just one phone and work with up to one more device. But, unlike Scala Rider Q1, Sena SMH5-FM can work with headsets from other brands, and the range, according to the manufacturer, is a record for its class, as much as 700 meters.

The recommended price for Sena SMH5-FM is 11,900 rubles per device. In addition, the manufacturer claims that the device is waterproof and has an application that allows you to update the firmware from Windows and Mac computers. But not a word about active noise reduction; in addition, if you still decide to buy, you should immediately decide on the helmet model. The Sena SMH5-FM kit includes only one microphone on a wire or a rigid suspension, so if you suddenly want to change the integral to ¾ or modular, you will have to order a new microphone.

Helmet mount

Most models of motorcycle headsets are universal, that is, suitable for any helmet. They are attached using 3M tape or a special screwless clamp. The wires are threaded under the helmet padding, and the microphone is fixed in front of the mouth using a flexible leg. You can install the motorcycle headset without special skills and tools.

There are motorcycle headsets made for a specific helmet, for example, Scala Rider SMARTH for HJC helmets. Such a headset is easier to install and can be transferred to a new helmet of a suitable model.

There are helmets with built-in headsets for motorcycles and for bicycles. They are comfortable, but if the helmet breaks, you won’t be able to move the headset to another helmet. There are also helmets that already have headphones and a microphone installed - all you have to do is put the communicator in a special hole. The model of the communicator is determined by the helmet manufacturer; you won’t be able to install just any one.

Midland BTX1 PRO

One of the most “delicious” offers in the class of inexpensive headsets is Midland BTX1 PRO – 10,900 rubles in a single version and 17,500 rubles in a pair. Despite the declared “entry” level, the headset has the ability to synchronize with two phones thanks to Bluetooth 4.2 technology, is protected from moisture according to the IPX6 standard, and if there are a pair of devices, it allows the pilot and passenger to listen to the same music in stereo mode. An important feature of this headset is the intercom mode, thanks to which the BTX1 PRO is compatible with headsets from other brands. The range is only 300 meters, but Midland offers a unique option - an LED brake light that lights up during emergency braking. In addition, Midland BTX1 PRO has a switchable AGC noise reduction system, FM radio with RDS, the ability to control voice commands and voice messages about the status of the device, and Midland also offers an application for smartphones, thanks to which you can quickly set up the headset.

User reviews

Naturally, you should not buy any headset blindly - it is very important to familiarize yourself with all its characteristics in advance, evaluate what is most important to you, and what functions you can exclude if necessary. But the most important thing is to read user reviews, because the sites where these devices are sold will be happy to describe in beautiful words how good their product is, but they do this only to sell it. You need a real opinion, and you can get it in reviews. There people can tell you what the actual communication quality of a particular headset is, whether there are any communication problems when connecting to other devices, whether there are any delays or stops when switching modes, and so on. It is important to find out all this first-hand in order to evaluate whether this headset is really worth buying, or whether everything was described beautifully in the description, but in reality many users were not so sunny. For example, some reviews report that headsets have a range that is not as advertised. From time to time, other users have problems switching modes. But in most cases, people write that the devices function perfectly, transmit excellent sound and establish reliable communication between interlocutors.

Interphone Urban

This model appeared on the market relatively recently, thanks to which it has a good set of functions. With a stated cost of 9,900 rubles for one device and 17,800 for a pair, the buyer is offered IP67 protection against dirt and dust, a “smart” FM radio with automatic wave search and memory for 8 stations, and compatibility with headsets of other models. True, you can only connect one phone to the headset.

A very modest, by the standards of the class, range (100 m), is more than compensated by an impressive operating time - the manufacturer promises up to 12 hours of talk time and up to 1000 hours of standby time. The kit, as expected, includes two microphones - on a pendant and a wire, thanks to which the headset can be used both with an open helmet and with an integral headset.

This is what the lower price segment looks like, which includes the most affordable motorcycle headsets. In the middle segment, prices are slightly higher, but the functionality is noticeably wider: there is a conference call, usually for at least four riders, and an intercom that allows you to connect up to eight devices, as well as an impressive range, which in this class is usually at least one kilometer And here we can also distinguish four main models presented on the domestic market.

Voices in your head: 12 motorcycle headsets for helmets

Could motorcyclists even imagine just ten years ago that a “talking hat” would go from the realm of science fiction to the category of things as common as, for example, a mobile phone? Moreover, today the Russian motorcycle headset market includes several famous manufacturers, such as Cardo, Interphone, Midland and Sena, each of which offers a number of models for every taste and budget.

It won’t take long to get lost in such diversity, so let’s start from the beginning - let’s look at what a headset for a motorcycle helmet is and highlight the main features and selection criteria for the average buyer.

The headset allows you to receive and make calls, listen to music and communicate in walkie-talkie or conference mode

Of course, the higher the class of the intercom, the richer the functionality, and, as a result, the higher the price. For example, entry-level headsets do not allow you to connect conference calls at all, limiting yourself to the ability to communicate only between two devices. “Top” models allow you to connect up to nine devices with each other for two-way communication, in the so-called “intercom” mode, and up to fifteen in conference mode.

In conference mode you can connect up to fifteen participants

Most motorcycle helmets support the installation of headsets, but sometimes modifications may be required for installation

When choosing, you should take into account one more important detail - not all headsets are compatible, so you should look for models that can synchronize with devices from other brands - this is practical and convenient. In addition, you should make sure that the manufacturer guarantees the device’s moisture protection, and also pay attention to additional options and equipment.

As additional options, manufacturers offer various types of microphones, remote controls and headphones

We will consider all the main models existing on the market, breaking them down into segments, depending on functionality and cost. Let's start with the lowest price segment, where you can buy a single device for less than 10 thousand rubles. Of course, it is always more profitable to buy in pairs, but the second gadget is not always needed, so we will consider both configuration options.

Budget motorcycle headsets

Cardo Scala Rider Q1

The entry-level headset Scala Rider Q1 is positioned as a means of driver-passenger communication

Sena SMH5-FM

Sena SMH5 headsets provide communication at a distance of up to 700 meters

Midland BTX1 PRO

Midland BTX1 PRO differs from competitors by the ability to simultaneously connect to two Bluetooth devices

An important feature of this headset is the intercom mode, thanks to which the BTX1 PRO is compatible with headsets from other brands. The range is only 300 meters, but Midland offers a unique option - an LED brake light that lights up during emergency braking. In addition, Midland BTX1 PRO has a switchable AGC noise reduction system, FM radio with RDS, the ability to control voice commands and voice messages about the status of the device, and Midland also offers an application for smartphones, thanks to which you can quickly set up the headset.

Interphone Urban

A distinctive feature of Interphone Urban is the ability to connect with third-party headsets

This is what the lower price segment looks like, which includes the most affordable motorcycle headsets. In the middle segment, prices are slightly higher, but the functionality is noticeably wider: there is a conference call, usually for at least four riders, and an intercom that allows you to connect up to eight devices, as well as an impressive range, which in this class is usually at least one kilometer. And here we can also distinguish four main models presented on the domestic market.

Mid-range headsets

Midland BTX2 PRO

One of the brightest representatives of the middle class, which includes not only a “living wage”, but also a number of additional options that allow it to compete even with some models in the upper price segment. A single device costs 12,200 rubles, and a pair will cost 21,900, for which you will get reliable communication between devices at a distance of up to a kilometer, the ability to connect with headsets of other brands and simultaneously connect two phones at once. It is worth taking into account the company’s know-how - an additional brake light that automatically lights up during sudden braking.

To enhance rider passive safety, all Midland headsets are equipped with an integrated brake light.

The headset software allows you to organize a conference call between four devices, as well as simultaneously play music on several headsets if your musical preferences coincide with the passenger. The device can be connected to an MP3 player, GPS navigator, or use the built-in FM radio. Midland BTX2 PRO supports voice commands and has an active noise reduction system, which, together with good moisture protection, makes it an excellent option. In addition, the kit includes two types of microphones, which allows you to install the BTX2 PRO in any type of helmet. The Midland BTX2 PRO headset is controlled and configured using a mobile application.

Cardo Scala Rider G9X

Midland's main competitor costs significantly more, on average 17,990 rubles for one device and 30,990 rubles for a pair.

The headset handles as many as eight intercom users simultaneously, which is an absolute record in its class. But just like other headsets of this class, only four people can connect to a conference, and only if they have a Scala Rider headset, while it will not be possible to establish a connection with users of other headsets.

The Scala Rider G9X headset can operate in both walkie-talkie intercom mode and conference calling mode

The G9X headset has an impressive range of 1.6 kilometers. Of course, in the city this parameter means practically nothing (the connection is often lost as soon as one of the pilots drives behind a large house), but on the highway this is a fairly respectable distance.

The headset has IP67 water resistance, a group signal function, an intuitive voice control system, and the ability to connect to a GPS navigator, MP3 player or mobile phone using Bluetooth. In addition, the Scala Rider G9X has the function of simultaneous listening to music from the same source by the driver and passenger, FM radio and a special application for smartphones through which you can change the headset settings.

Sena 10S

The Sena 10S headset has an active noise reduction system, produces HD sound and is also fully controlled by voice commands. It is worth noting that this headset is also offered as an option with a remote control for the steering wheel, from which you can control the functions of the device without being distracted from the controls.

Sena 10S features Active Noise Cancellation for excellent sound quality in any environment

In addition, Sena 10S has an impressive range (1600 m) and the ability to connect to headsets from other manufacturers. The rest is a standard set of functions, including the ability to connect one mobile phone, navigator or player, as well as providing conference calls or intercom between four devices simultaneously via Bluetooth 4.1. Quick setup of the Sena 10S can be done using special applications for iPhone and Android smartphones.

The recommended retail price for the Sena 10S headset is 15,900 for one device and 29,900 for a set.

Interphone Sport

The last headset from our list of “mid-rangers” cannot be called an outsider, but it does not differ in outstanding characteristics, and the cost is quite comparable with analogues - on average they ask for 16,100 rubles for a single device, and 28,100 for a pair. It is proposed to pay this money for functions of simultaneous conference calling or intercom with four headsets from any manufacturer within a radius of one kilometer, IP67 water protection and the ability to connect one mobile phone.

The Interphone Sport headset supports connection to third-party devices

In addition, the headset can work with an MP3 player, GPS navigator and has an FM radio. Control is provided by both keys and voice commands, and the claimed battery life is 15 hours of talk time or 1,000 hours of standby time. The headset also has a noise reduction system and a special algorithm that increases voice intelligibility.

In general, it is the middle segment that looks the most attractive both in terms of price and functionality, but if you want more, you can look into the “premium” segment. In the upper price segment, manufacturers do not limit themselves in either price or functionality, competing for records in certain parameters.

Premium motorcycle headsets

Cardo Scala Rider Packtalk

One of the most expensive and advanced headsets today will cost 17,550 rubles for one device and 29,900 rubles for a pair. Scala Rider Packtalk, along with the top-end Smartpack, are the only representatives of the brand that can connect to headsets from other manufacturers, and can also boast an impressive range of 1600 meters. The headset, in addition to standard Bluetooth wireless technology, also has the so-called DMC (dynamic network communication system), which allows ten devices to participate in a conference at once and connect up to nine gadgets in intercom mode.

Cardo Scala Rider Packtalk will provide stable communication with other motorcyclists at a distance of up to 1600 meters

In addition, there is an application specifically for Scala Rider Packtalk called Cardo Smart Set, thanks to which you can configure the gadget via a smartphone or tablet. In addition, the headset allows you to share music in stereo mode, for example with a passenger, has a built-in radio with memory, a voice control system, as well as a unique Click-to-Link feature found only in Scala Rider - the ability to pair headsets by lightly hitting them against each other.

Sena 20S

The top model in the brand’s line costs about 20,900 rubles for one headset and 38,900 rubles for a double set. For this money, the manufacturer will offer simultaneous connection of up to eight people in conference mode and the same number in intercom mode, while, as it should be in the upper segment, the models of gadgets of your interlocutors do not matter at all, provided that they also support connection with "foreign cars". Sena allows you to simultaneously connect up to two devices such as phones, players and navigators using Bluetooth 4.1. Settings are managed via a mobile phone application.

The Sena 20S headset has outstanding range and Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity

The main features of the 20S are the range - a record two kilometers for any headset on the market, voice control, HD audio recording, an optional steering wheel headset control panel and excellent sound quality. In addition, Sena 20S offers the ability to simultaneously listen to several sources, when, for example, during navigation prompts, the music does not turn off, but simply becomes quieter.

Midland BT Next PRO

The top Midland model has decent functionality and costs about 16,000 for one device and 29,500 for a pair - one of the best offers in the class. The functionality of the headset includes the ability to connect up to eight conference participants and up to six intercom devices simultaneously, regardless of the brand of gadgets. The range is 1600 meters, and via Bluetooth connection you can connect two gadgets at once.

The headset software allows you to save music and navigation tips, transferring them to the background and making them available even during a conversation, which is quite important given the presence of an advanced AGC noise reduction system, which, if desired, can be turned off.

The “top” Midland model, the BT Next PRO headset boasts an AGC active noise reduction system

Also, unlike many competitors, Midland BT Next PRO is equipped with an advanced Bluetooth 4.2 wireless communication system and IPX6 protection class against moisture and dust. Of course, all the basic features are retained, such as FM radio, voice control, a special application for a smartphone and, of course, a unique brake light that is activated during sudden braking directly on the headset.

Interphone Tour

The top-end headset, compared to its competitors, stands out primarily because of its battery: according to the manufacturer, the gadget is capable of working for 20 hours in talk mode. Interphone Tour allows you to simultaneously connect up to four participants via conference call and four gadgets in “intercom” mode, providing a connection within a radius of up to one and a half kilometers, including with headsets from third-party manufacturers.

The tourist modification of the Interphone motorcycle headset has a fast charging function from the included power bank.

For one gadget, sellers ask on average 18,900 rubles, and for a set of a pair of devices – 34,300 rubles. The headset is IP67 waterproof, can connect via Bluetooth to one phone, and has a built-in FM radio with memory. In addition, the manufacturer claims a fast charging function using a special battery pack included with the device, thanks to which you can charge the headset on the go.

This is what the current Russian headset market looks like. Of course, even the above-mentioned manufacturers have other models, but in any case they are close to the ones we reviewed. In addition to this, there is also a whole heap of Chinese crafts that can also be bought in Russia for very modest money, but their quality, so far, leaves much to be desired.

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Midland BTX2 PRO

Description and functions

A helmet headset is the most useful and sought-after gadget for a motorcyclist. It allows you to:

Negotiate with the passenger and other bikers
Answer and make phone calls
Listen to music or radio
Receive voice prompts from a GPS navigator

Conducting conversations using such a device is possible not only in telephone mode, but also in walkie-talkie mode. These useful features allow you to ride any motorcycle, ATV or scooter without distraction.

You can connect it to a player, phone or navigator. This gadget is made in the form of a small device that contains: a transmitter, a microphone and headphones. They are sized to suit motorcycle helmets. Motorcycle headsets are divided into wired and wireless.

Cardo Scala Rider G9X

Midland's main competitor costs significantly more, on average 17,990 rubles for one device and 30,990 rubles for a pair.

One of the best

Cardo Scala Rider Q1. This device belongs to the budget line, and its average cost is about 9,250 rubles. There is also a nice discount for those who buy a couple of devices at once (for the driver and passenger). Two Scala Rider headsets will cost only 16,500 rubles.

When choosing this model, you must take into account the fact that the Q1 headset is designed for communication between the driver and passenger, does not work with other devices, synchronizes via Bluetooth with a maximum of two smartphones, and the range does not exceed ten meters.

The advantages include the presence of FM radio, as well as the ability to simultaneously listen to music tracks.

Sena 10S

The recommended retail price for the Sena 10S headset is 15,900 for one device and 29,900 for a set.

Bluetooth connection

The first thing a motorcycle helmet headset is used for is establishing a Bluetooth connection between several devices. Firstly, you can use it to contact directly the owner of such a device, but that’s not all. You can also connect the headset to your smartphone, thereby creating a ready-made network not only for telephone conversations, but also for other, for example, entertainment purposes. Simply put, it can be used to establish a connection with any device that also uses Bluetooth, which gives you a huge number of possibilities. Thus, a motorcycle headset for a helmet is an irreplaceable thing, and once you use it at least once, you will never want to give it up. However, it is still worth talking in more detail about its capabilities. User reviews of headsets are usually positive, since these devices perform their functions one hundred percent.

Interphone Sport

Automatic answer

Some headsets allow you to set an automatic answer feature. In this case, the headset for a full-face helmet will not display the call and wait for you to choose whether to answer it or reset it. As soon as a call arrives on your phone, the device automatically picks up the handset, allowing you to answer the call immediately. Here you need to choose for yourself which option suits you best. However, user feedback on this feature is mostly positive, with people noting the convenience of automatic responses, which frees them from having to take time away from driving.

Cardo Scala Rider Packtalk

Noise reduction

Pay attention to whether a particular headset is equipped with a special noise reduction system, most often called DSP. If you have one, then your headset will have one big advantage - it will not let extraneous sounds into your helmet, such as wind whistles and road noise, which can interfere with your ability to enjoy music or hear what other people are saying to you. The system works even at the highest speeds and in heavy noise pollution, so it's definitely worth having - it deserves to pay a little extra for it. This will greatly facilitate all processes and make your trip much more comfortable. You can easily relax or communicate with your partners on the road, or just talk on your mobile phone. This is confirmed by numerous users who leave reviews on this function - noise is actually suppressed very well.

Sena 20S

Photo gallery

The market for headsets for motorcycle enthusiasts is developing rapidly. Models are becoming more and more functional, but not all consumers need these innovations. Sometimes you need simple and inexpensive headsets to listen to music or just take a call. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the most popular models in our photo selection.

Midland BT Next PRO

Principle of operation

A motorcycle headset is a device that allows you to receive and make calls from a mobile phone even while riding, since there is no need to remove your helmet. Control is carried out from a smartphone or by voice commands from the motorcyclist. The device can be used as an intercom to maintain contact with a group of motorcyclists, for example, while driving in a convoy. You can also listen to voice prompts from the GPS navigator or enjoy your favorite music.

The price of a motorcycle headset for a helmet directly depends on its functional features. The simplest models, which have a relatively low cost, cannot boast of having, for example, a conference call, which provides the ability to simultaneously connect up to nine devices.

This service is available in models in the middle and high price categories. The most expensive of them are flagship ones. They boast an available Intercom mode, which expands the number of conference participants to fifteen people.

Some full-face motorcycle headsets can be connected to two devices simultaneously. This allows you to receive voice guidance from your navigator even while talking on your mobile phone. To configure and further manage the device, as a rule, mobile applications or personal computer utilities are used.

The models also have differences in range. Cheaper motorcycle headsets for helmets maintain a stable level of communication at a distance of 100-300 meters. But even among the budget class there are models whose range reaches 700 meters, for example, Sena SMH5-FM. By choosing the most expensive segment, you are guaranteed to receive stable communication with other devices at a distance of up to two kilometers.

Before purchasing a headset, you need to consider that not all devices are compatible. To avoid any difficulties in use in the future, you should pay attention to models that provide synchronization with devices of other brands. It is also important to have moisture protection and a DSP system, which is designed to suppress noise. A manufacturer like Midland offers an additional passive safety system by equipping its headsets with a brake light option.

Let's take a brief overview of motorcycle helmet headsets, paying attention to the popular models presented on the Russian market, which are the best in their price category.

Interphone Tour

This is what the current Russian headset market looks like. Of course, even the above-mentioned manufacturers have other models. In addition to this, there is also a whole heap of Chinese crafts that can also be bought in Russia for very modest money, but their quality, so far, leaves much to be desired.

Switching modes

As you may have noticed, the headset has a large number of different modes that offer a variety of functions. This means you'll have a ton of ways to stay entertained on the go, but you'll also need to be aware that you'll have to switch between modes somehow. Modern devices are equipped with an extremely convenient switching system, which opens up excellent possibilities. You don't have to put yourself in danger and try to do something manually - the system will do everything for you. Therefore, all you need is a Bluetooth Ready helmet; installing a motorcycle headset is not the most difficult process. Moreover, in the instructions you can always find precise instructions to quickly and efficiently equip your helmet with a headset and use it one hundred percent.