Best Intercom for the $ ????
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,699
Likes: 15
From: Qualicum Beach, B.C. CAN
I bought the Scala Rider Q2 headset (Multi-set). I have to say, I didn't expect it to work very well but it works awesome! I paid like $250 for the two pack on amazon.com. We use them as rider to rider in lieu of 2up but of course 2up would work. It syncs with your phone and GPS units too. It also has the cable included (at least in the Q2, but not the others from what I understand) for the MP3 players.
The headset has a bracket that goes to your helmet and you slide the unit in to that. I have a 9" shield, half helmet and it was still very clear even with the wind.
The one thing I was sure was going to be a disappointment became one of the purchases I was most pleased with in recent times as far as accessory items go. I highly recommend it. Be sure it's the Q2 as it has the most goodies (if you need goodies).
Oh yeah, the range rider to rider was about 500m as claimed. We tested it out.
The headset has a bracket that goes to your helmet and you slide the unit in to that. I have a 9" shield, half helmet and it was still very clear even with the wind.
The one thing I was sure was going to be a disappointment became one of the purchases I was most pleased with in recent times as far as accessory items go. I highly recommend it. Be sure it's the Q2 as it has the most goodies (if you need goodies).
Oh yeah, the range rider to rider was about 500m as claimed. We tested it out.
The sound quality is very clear,both rider to rider and in the bluetooth connection. Most can't tell when I'm riding and on the phone.
The battery life is about a week on mine for commuting, 1/2 hour each way.
Wife uses her Ipod and has great sound, with the ability to break in and chat any time.
the FM stations, once programed, have become part of my commute. Who knew?
Interestingly, my wife went up an elevator in an apt building and we could communicate over the system the whole way, even when she went into the apt on the 4th floor.
We have not tried out the feature where each headset can hook up to another Q2, but only because our buddies have not got onboard yet.
Great system.
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 547
Likes: 1
From: Old River-Winfree, Tx
I know you've mentioned 'wireless'...thought I'd throw in my .02. I didnt want to have to worry about recharging, so being 'hard-wired was ok with me. I purchased the IMC MIT 30 from Sierra MC. For the money ($158 shipped USPS Priority)...I cant complain about the clarity. GF and I communicate easily...windnoise doesnt seem to be a major problem. When we're cruisin' n crankin' the tunes, she can hear the bike's radio thru my mic.
For power...I hooked it up to one of the saddlebag running light circuits. Fits neatly under the seat. I have my headset in a HJC flip-face...GF's in a HJC 3/4 with a flip up shield. I ran the front USB type headset connector next to my rider's backrest adjustment lever; the rear up thru the seat beside the rider's backrest...both connectors tucked away out of sight when not in use. I also have my Sirius hooked directly to the IMC....it could use a little volume boost. It might be the "Status V" unit itself...dont know. I'll try a 'Boostaroo'.
Good Luck!
Billy G
For power...I hooked it up to one of the saddlebag running light circuits. Fits neatly under the seat. I have my headset in a HJC flip-face...GF's in a HJC 3/4 with a flip up shield. I ran the front USB type headset connector next to my rider's backrest adjustment lever; the rear up thru the seat beside the rider's backrest...both connectors tucked away out of sight when not in use. I also have my Sirius hooked directly to the IMC....it could use a little volume boost. It might be the "Status V" unit itself...dont know. I'll try a 'Boostaroo'.
Good Luck!
Billy G
Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 138
Likes: 1
From: Tigard, OR
Check out Autocom. They introduced new models this year, so you can still find some of their previous models on sale. It's a wired system, excellent audio quality. I run the Super Pro AVI. Another wired alternative is Starcom1. I've heard good things, but haven't used one personally.
Thread Starter
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,698
Likes: 11
From: Longview, Washington
I bought a Scala set-up. Not the Q2. Results were mixed.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 3,542
Likes: 161
From: Booming metropolis
I bought the Q2 system and the range is very good. The problems I noted were as follows.
1. If you get a phone call the wind sometimes activates the answering function.
2. I cant seem to turn the intercom off when linked to another unit as the wind keeps activating the VOX, and it drains the battery before the end of a full day ride.
If I could figure out how to keep the wind from activating the VOX it would be a great system.
1. If you get a phone call the wind sometimes activates the answering function.
2. I cant seem to turn the intercom off when linked to another unit as the wind keeps activating the VOX, and it drains the battery before the end of a full day ride.
If I could figure out how to keep the wind from activating the VOX it would be a great system.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,699
Likes: 15
From: Qualicum Beach, B.C. CAN
I bought the Q2 system and the range is very good. The problems I noted were as follows.
1. If you get a phone call the wind sometimes activates the answering function.
2. I cant seem to turn the intercom off when linked to another unit as the wind keeps activating the VOX, and it drains the battery before the end of a full day ride.
If I could figure out how to keep the wind from activating the VOX it would be a great system.
1. If you get a phone call the wind sometimes activates the answering function.
2. I cant seem to turn the intercom off when linked to another unit as the wind keeps activating the VOX, and it drains the battery before the end of a full day ride.
If I could figure out how to keep the wind from activating the VOX it would be a great system.
I tuck the mike under my chin when not talking.
Been thinking about a 'sock' over the foam on the mouthpiece.
Wish the vox was adjustable.
Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 214
Likes: 0
From: Leesburg, FL
I've got the Q2 system as well, and have noticed the same problem with the VOX. Biggest issue I had one day was my buddy and I riding, and I let him use my wifes Q2. He wanted to listen to his radio, and the Q2 wouldn't shut off the intercom, so I had to listen to pretty much static and wind all day, except when he said something. Reading the manual, it says something about tapping the MC button to initiate a call or end a call manually with the intercom, but it did not want to work.
I also have a question, sometimes, I just am riding alone, and turn the FM off, just to listen to the wind and sound of the bike. About every 15 to 30 seconds I get a beep from the Q2 unit. I'm wondering if it's just some kind of warning beep, telling me that the unit is powered but no one is connected?
I also have a question, sometimes, I just am riding alone, and turn the FM off, just to listen to the wind and sound of the bike. About every 15 to 30 seconds I get a beep from the Q2 unit. I'm wondering if it's just some kind of warning beep, telling me that the unit is powered but no one is connected?
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,699
Likes: 15
From: Qualicum Beach, B.C. CAN
When it quits working for me I just turn it off and back on.
I think sometimes it gets out of sequence if there is wind noise.
I'm thinking a nylon wind-breaking sock over the mic may help.
The beep sounds like low battery.???
Very eerie how clear it is especially over distance. Our sound quality is perfect even over 4 floors of an apt building. And we are getting long hours between recharges.
I've gotten used to listening to the radio on the way to work, as well.
Wife plugs her Ipod in and is happy.
I think sometimes it gets out of sequence if there is wind noise.
I'm thinking a nylon wind-breaking sock over the mic may help.
The beep sounds like low battery.???
Very eerie how clear it is especially over distance. Our sound quality is perfect even over 4 floors of an apt building. And we are getting long hours between recharges.
I've gotten used to listening to the radio on the way to work, as well.
Wife plugs her Ipod in and is happy.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 3,542
Likes: 161
From: Booming metropolis
I've got the Q2 system as well, and have noticed the same problem with the VOX. Biggest issue I had one day was my buddy and I riding, and I let him use my wifes Q2. He wanted to listen to his radio, and the Q2 wouldn't shut off the intercom, so I had to listen to pretty much static and wind all day, except when he said something. Reading the manual, it says something about tapping the MC button to initiate a call or end a call manually with the intercom, but it did not want to work.
I also have a question, sometimes, I just am riding alone, and turn the FM off, just to listen to the wind and sound of the bike. About every 15 to 30 seconds I get a beep from the Q2 unit. I'm wondering if it's just some kind of warning beep, telling me that the unit is powered but no one is connected?
I also have a question, sometimes, I just am riding alone, and turn the FM off, just to listen to the wind and sound of the bike. About every 15 to 30 seconds I get a beep from the Q2 unit. I'm wondering if it's just some kind of warning beep, telling me that the unit is powered but no one is connected?
. It is a simple fix thank god. when you turn the unit on hold and press both volume buttons simultaneously and hold for approximately 3 seconds. you will hear a beep. this will fix your problem, and will be riding large like BOB.