A strong motorcycle helmet audio setup should deliver the listening and communication features you need while fitting your helmet and riding routine. The Sena Phantom stands out for riders who want speakers, a microphone, Bluetooth, and rider-to-rider communication integrated into a full-face helmet. If you already own a helmet, add-on choices here range from ultra-thin Syphon SoundPro speakers to communication systems such as the Cardo Spirit HD and Fodsports FX-S.
This roundup compares complete helmets, standalone headsets, and speaker upgrades, so the first step is deciding whether you are replacing your helmet or adding audio to one you already have. Fit, communicator compatibility, and the difference between music playback and intercom features matter as much as speaker size.
The Sena Phantom is the best motorcycle helmet audio choice for riders seeking an integrated full-face helmet with Bluetooth, built-in speakers and microphone, and WAVE or Mesh Intercom. Its 2nd Generation Sound by Harman Kardon and integrated communications make it a more complete all-in-one option than speaker-only kits. Choose the Sena Phantom XB instead if its acoustic audio chambers and extreme-bass focus are your priority, or an add-on system if you want to keep your current helmet.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallCombines a full-face helmet with integrated Bluetooth, microphone, speakers, WAVE or Mesh Intercom, and 2nd Generation Sound by Harman Kardon.
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Bass-Focused AudioPurpose-built smart helmet includes integrated communications and acoustically engineered audio chambers designed to elevate sound quality.
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Best Intercom KitAdd-on communicator combines two-rider Bluetooth intercom with a stated range up to 600 meters, waterproofing, and 40mm HD speakers.
View on Amazon- Waterproof Headset Fodsports FX-S
- Thinnest Speakers Syphon SoundPro
Compare motorcycle helmet audio options by type and fit
| # | Product | Weight | Warranty Description | Compatible Devices | Audio Driver Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Sena PhantomBest Overall | 3.7 lb | 3 Year Warranty (Helmet Integrity and… | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Sena Phantom XBBass-Focused Audio | 3.8 lb | 5 Years | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Cardo Spirit HDBest Intercom Kit | 4.54 g | 2 year manufacturer | Smartphone | 32 millimeters | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Fodsports FX-SWaterproof Headset | 1.28 oz | 1Year Manufacturer | Cellphones, Laptops, Motorcycles, iPhone | 40 millimeters | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Syphon SoundProThinnest Speakers | — | — | Bluetooth-enabled devices | 40 millimeters | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Wisdagaly Q08Rain-ready standalone headset | 0.09 kg | 2 Year Manufacturer | Cellphones | 40 millimeters | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. FEYA Helmet SpeakersDual-phone helmet audio | 60 g | Warranty within 1 year from purchase | Cellphones | 40 millimeters | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. ILM 953Modular helmet with integrated Bluetooth | 2.43 kg | — | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. ScorpionEXO T520Bluetooth-ready touring helmet | 4.8 lb | Limited Warranty | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Cardo 45mm Audio SetUniversal 45mm speaker upgrade | — | Manufacturer Warranty | Smartphone, Tablet, MP3 Player, Desktop… | 45 millimeters | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Motorcycle Helmet Audio

#1 · Best Overall
1. Sena Phantom
- Weight: 3.7 lb
- Warranty Description: 3 Year Warranty (Helmet Integrity and…
Best for: Integrated premium audio touring.
Why it ranks #1: Combines a full-face helmet with integrated Bluetooth, microphone, speakers, WAVE or Mesh Intercom, and 2nd Generation Sound by Harman Kardon.
Second-generation SOUND by Harman Kardon comes integrated into the Sena Phantom, so riders get helmet audio without adding separate speakers and a communication unit. Bluetooth supports calls, navigation, and music, while WAVE or Mesh Intercom connects riders using the helmet’s built-in system.
The integrated speakers, microphone, and Bluetooth connectivity keep audio and communication functions within one helmet setup, rather than requiring a separate headset installation. Use a connected phone for calls, navigation prompts, or music; WAVE and Mesh Intercom add rider-to-rider communication. The fiberglass shell with EPS padding meets and exceeds DOT safety certifications, and the included Pinlock-ready shield and neck roll support the helmet’s complete riding configuration. Its 3.7-pound listed weight is a consideration for riders choosing a full-face smart helmet.
- Second-generation SOUND by Harman Kardon integrated into helmet
- Bluetooth supports phone calls, navigation, and music
- WAVE and Mesh Intercom for rider communication
- Fiberglass shell and EPS padding meet and exceed DOT safety certifications
- Audio and communications are tied to the full-face helmet rather than a separate headset.
Skip it if you want to add audio to a helmet you already own; Cardo Spirit HD is a separate communication headset.
This suits riders seeking a full-face helmet with integrated music, navigation, calls, and intercom rather than a separate audio kit. Consider its 3.7-pound weight and full-helmet format when choosing equipment for longer rides.
Full product details
| Brand | Sena |
|---|---|
| Color | Gloss Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Motorcycle |
| Included Components | Helmet / Pouch / Pinlock Ready Shield / Pads / Breath Guard / Neck Roll / Microphone Sponges / USB-C cable |
| Item Weight | 3.7 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Sena |
| Part Number | PHANTOM-GB00S3 |
| Material | Fiberglass |
| Model | Phantom |
| Model Number | PHANTOM-GB00S3 |
| Style Name | Phantom |
| Warranty Description | 3 Year Warranty (Helmet Integrity and Electronics) |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Sena Phantom and ANC Full Face Smart Motorcycle Helmet with Integrated Communications, LED Lighting, and 2nd Generation Sound by Harman Kardon
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#2 · Bass-Focused Audio
2. Sena Phantom XB
- Weight: 3.8 lb
- Warranty Description: 5 Years
Best for: Bass-focused integrated helmet audio.
Why it ranks #2: Purpose-built smart helmet includes integrated communications and acoustically engineered audio chambers designed to elevate sound quality.
Acoustic Audio Chambers distinguish the Sena Phantom XB, housing its integrated speakers to enhance the rider’s listening experience. Bluetooth connects a smartphone for calls, navigation, and music, and WAVE or Mesh Intercom supports rider-to-rider communication without adding a separate headset to the helmet.
The acoustic chambers house the integrated speakers and are described as significantly elevating sound quality, making this a sound-centered alternative to a helmet with speaker pockets alone. Bluetooth phone connectivity covers music, calls, and navigation audio, while WAVE or Mesh Intercom enables communication between riders. A fiberglass shell with EPS padding meets and exceeds DOT safety certifications. The included ANC cheek pads, center pad, and ear pads provide components for the helmet’s interior setup; it remains a full-face helmet purchase, not a standalone audio upgrade.
- Acoustic Audio Chambers house integrated speakers
- Bluetooth supports calls, navigation, and music
- WAVE and Mesh Intercom communication
- Fiberglass shell with EPS padding meets and exceeds DOT safety certifications
- The integrated audio is part of a full-face helmet, not a retrofit speaker kit.
Skip it if you need speakers for a helmet you already own; Cardo 45mm Audio Set connects through a standard 3.5mm jack.
This fits riders prioritizing chamber-enhanced audio and integrated intercom in a new full-face helmet. It is less suited to an existing-helmet upgrade, since the speakers and communication system are integrated into the helmet.
Full product details
| Brand | Sena |
|---|---|
| Color | Gloss White |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Motorcycle |
| Included Components | Helmet / Pouch / Pinlock Ready Shield / ANC Cheek Pads / Center Pad / Breath Guard / Neck Roll / Ear Pads / Boom Microphone Sponges / USB-C cable |
| Item Weight | 3.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Sena |
| Part Number | PHANTOMXB-GW00S3 |
| Material | Fiberglass |
| Model | Phantom |
| Model Number | PHANTOMXB-GW00S3 |
| Warranty Description | 5 Years |
Listed on Amazon as: Sena Phantom XB Full Face Smart Motorcycle Helmet with Integrated Communication System Featuring Extreme Bass
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#3 · Best Intercom Kit
3. Cardo Spirit HD
- Weight: 4.54 g
- Warranty Description: 2 year manufacturer
- Compatible Devices: Smartphone
- Audio Driver Size: 32 millimeters
Best for: Weatherproof two-rider communicator.
Why it ranks #3: Add-on communicator combines two-rider Bluetooth intercom with a stated range up to 600 meters, waterproofing, and 40mm HD speakers.
The Cardo Spirit HD combines waterproofing with a two-rider Bluetooth intercom rated for up to 600 meters, giving riders a defined communication range and weather-ready headset. Its 40mm HD speakers and three sound profiles add options for shaping listening on the road.
The two-rider intercom’s stated range of up to 600m gives riding partners a concrete communication limit to consider when planning rides. Waterproof construction is specified for rain, mud, dust, or snow, while 40mm HD speakers and three sound profiles let riders select an audio presentation. Built-in FM radio with RDS automatically selects the strongest signal, and over-the-air updates through the Cardo Connect App support software maintenance. The unit also supports phone calls, music, and cross-brand connectivity.
- Two-rider Bluetooth intercom with range up to 600m
- Waterproof for rain, mud, dust, or snow
- 40mm HD speakers and three sound profiles
- FM radio with RDS and app-based over-the-air updates
- The listed 32mm driver specification differs from the description’s 40mm HD speaker claim.
Skip it if you want a speaker-only replacement with a standard 3.5mm jack; Cardo 45mm Audio Set is a separate speaker kit.
This suits riders who want a weatherproof communicator with two-rider intercom, radio, and app updates. Its value as a complete headset differs from a replacement speaker set, and the supplied driver-size details conflict.
Full product details
| Brand | Cardo |
|---|---|
| Audio Driver Size | 32 millimeters |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Control Type | Media Control |
| Enclosure Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 4.54 g |
| Manufacturer | CARDO |
| Model | Spirit HD |
| Model Number | SPRT0002 |
| Style Name | Spirit HD |
| Warranty Description | 2 year manufacturer |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Cardo Systems Spirit HD Motorcycle Bluetooth Communication Headset, 2-Way Bluetooth, Thin 40mm Speakers, Waterproof, Universal Connectivity – Single Pack
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#4 · Waterproof Headset
4. Fodsports FX-S
- Weight: 1.28 oz
- Warranty Description: 1Year Manufacturer
- Compatible Devices: Cellphones, Laptops, Motorcycles, iPhone
- Audio Driver Size: 40 millimeters
Best for: Two-rider waterproof intercom.
Why it ranks #4: Standalone Bluetooth headset offers two-way intercom, IP67 waterproofing, CVC noise cancellation, and two microphone types.
Two-way intercom communication is the Fodsports FX-S’s defining use, pairing rider-to-rider connection with Bluetooth 5.4 and hands-free music and calls. Its IP67 waterproof rating and CVC noise cancellation add weather protection and noise management to this helmet communication system.
The two-way intercom supports communication between riders, while Bluetooth 5.4 and hands-free music and call functions cover phone-connected listening and calls. CVC noise cancellation is listed for managing noise during use, and the IP67 rating specifies the system’s waterproof protection. Two microphone types are included, giving buyers options for their helmet installation. Its 40mm drivers and button controls complete the audio hardware and control approach. The listing does not give a communication range or battery runtime, so those figures cannot guide ride planning.
- Two-way helmet intercom communication
- Bluetooth 5.4 with hands-free music and calls
- IP67 waterproof rating
- CVC noise cancellation and two microphone types
- No intercom range or battery runtime is specified in the supplied listing.
Skip it if you need a stated intercom range; Cardo Spirit HD specifies coverage up to 600m for two riders.
Choose the FX-S for two-rider communication, waterproofing, and hands-free phone audio in a helmet system. Riders who need a published range or runtime for trip planning should weigh those unspecified details before choosing.
Full product details
| Brand | Fodsports |
|---|---|
| Audio Driver Size | 40 millimeters |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones, Laptops, Motorcycles, iPhone |
| Control Type | Button Control |
| Enclosure Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polycarbonate (PC), Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) |
| Item Weight | 1.28 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Fodsports |
| Model | FX-S-1Pac |
| Model Number | FX-S-1Pac |
| Style Name | Modern |
| Warranty Description | 1Year Manufacturer |
Listed on Amazon as: Fodsports FX-S Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset V5.4, 2-Way Helmet Intercom Communication System with IP67 Waterproof, CVC Noise Cancellation, Hands-Free Music/Call, 2 Type Mics, Black, 1 Pack
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#5 · Thinnest Speakers
5. Syphon SoundPro
- Compatible Devices: Bluetooth-enabled devices
- Audio Driver Size: 40 millimeters
Best for: Low-profile glove-control speakers.
Why it ranks #5: Its 9.6mm speakers are designed to sit under helmet liners, while glove-friendly twist controls handle volume and track changes.
At 9.6mm thick, Syphon SoundPro speakers are intended to sit flush beneath most helmet liners, limiting added bulk for motorcycle, dirt bike, and snowmobile riders. Twist-action controls work through thick gloves, allowing riders to adjust volume or skip tracks without taking their gloves off.
The ultra-thin 9.6mm speaker pads are made to fit under most helmet liners, which can help preserve the helmet’s existing interior feel rather than adding bulky speakers. Twist-action controls operate through thick gloves and handle volume and track changes, keeping basic media adjustments accessible while riding. Bluetooth compatibility connects the speakers to Bluetooth-enabled devices. This is a speaker set, not a complete helmet or intercom system, so buyers should plan around the helmet liner and the audio functions actually listed.
- 9.6mm-thin speakers fit under most helmet liners
- Twist controls work through thick gloves
- Controls adjust volume and skip tracks
- Bluetooth-enabled device compatibility
- The supplied features describe media controls but do not specify an intercom function.
Skip it if you want a listed rider-to-rider intercom; Cardo Spirit HD supports two-rider Bluetooth intercom.
A good match for riders who want low-profile Bluetooth speakers and glove-operable media controls in an existing helmet. It is a speaker-focused option, so riders seeking specified intercom communication should choose a system listing that function.
Full product details
| Brand | Syphon |
|---|---|
| Audio Driver Size | 40 millimeters |
| Carrying Case Color | Black |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Bluetooth-enabled devices |
| Control Type | Media Control, Call Control |
| Enclosure Material | Plastic |
| Manufacturer | Syphon |
| Model | SoundPro |
| Model Number | [Inferred: SoundPro] |
Listed on Amazon as: Syphon SoundPro Bluetooth Helmet Speakers for Motorcycle, Ultra-Thin 9.6mm
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#6
6. Wisdagaly Q08
- Weight: 0.09 kg
- Warranty Description: 2 Year Manufacturer
- Compatible Devices: Cellphones
- Audio Driver Size: 40 millimeters
Best for: Rain-ready standalone headset.
Why it ranks #6: A standalone Bluetooth headset lists 40mm drivers, ENC noise cancellation, dual microphones, IPX6 waterproofing, and a 1000mAh battery.
An IPX6 waterproof rating is the Wisdagaly Q08’s clearest practical distinction, making this helmet headset suited to riders who need audio equipment specified for rain, snow, and dust. Its 1000mAh battery, Bluetooth 5.3, and noise-cancelling microphones combine wireless listening with call handling.
The IPX6 rating gives the headset a stated level of resistance for use in rain, snow, and dust, while the 1000mAh battery supports its wireless operation. Bluetooth 5.3 provides cellphone connectivity, and the listed ENC noise cancelling targets clearer music and call sound amid riding noise. Button control gives riders a physical control method, and the 40mm drivers provide the audio hardware. This is a headset accessory rather than a complete helmet, so helmet fit and installation remain part of the setup.
- IPX6 waterproof rating
- 1000mAh battery
- Bluetooth 5.3 cellphone connectivity
- ENC noise cancelling and 40mm audio drivers
- The listing provides no battery runtime figure for planning between charges.
Skip it if you need a stated talk-time figure before choosing; ILM 953 lists eight hours of talk time.
This suits riders looking for a waterproof-rated Bluetooth headset with noise-cancelling microphones and a substantial listed battery capacity. Choose it as an audio accessory, and account for the absence of a specified runtime when planning rides.
Full product details
| Brand | Wisdagaly |
|---|---|
| Audio Driver Size | 40 millimeters |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones |
| Control Type | Button Control |
| Enclosure Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 0.09 kg |
| Manufacturer | Wisdagaly |
| Model | Q08 Helmet Bluetooth Headset |
| Model Number | Q08 |
| Style Name | Modern |
| Warranty Description | 2 Year Manufacturer |
Listed on Amazon as: Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset V5.3, Noise Cancelling Helmet Speakers with High Volume, Dual Mic, 1000mAh Battery, IPX6 Waterproof & RGB Lights for Riding
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#7
7. FEYA Helmet Speakers
- Weight: 60 g
- Warranty Description: Warranty within 1 year from purchase
- Compatible Devices: Cellphones
- Audio Driver Size: 40 millimeters
Best for: Dual-phone helmet audio.
Why it ranks #7: This 40mm-speaker headset supports Bluetooth 5.3, GPS voice guidance, two connected phones, and voice-control features.
The FEYA headset connects to two mobile phones simultaneously, letting riders keep music or GPS guidance available alongside a second phone connection. Bluetooth 5.3, 40mm drivers, and voice-control support add wireless audio and hands-free access in a single-person helmet speaker system.
Dual-phone connectivity lets the headset maintain connections with two mobile phones, while Bluetooth 5.3 supports wireless music and GPS voice guidance. The 40mm drivers provide stereo audio hardware, and listed voice controls include Siri and Google Assistant, alongside call and volume controls. This is specified for single-person use and cannot connect to other brands’ headsets, so it supports phone audio rather than cross-brand rider intercom. Consider that boundary when choosing it for solo commutes or navigation-focused rides.
- Connects to two mobile phones simultaneously
- Bluetooth 5.3 for music and GPS voice guidance
- 40mm audio drivers
- Voice control supports Siri and Google Assistant
- Single-person use; it cannot connect to headsets from other brands.
Skip it if you need two-rider intercom communication; Cardo Spirit HD supports a two-rider Bluetooth intercom.
This suits solo riders who want two-phone connectivity, music, and GPS voice guidance with voice-assistant controls. It does not connect to other brands’ headsets, so choose another system for rider-to-rider intercom.
Full product details
| Brand | FEYA |
|---|---|
| Audio Driver Size | 40 millimeters |
| Carrying Case Weight | 200 g |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones |
| Control Type | Voice Control, Call Control, Volume Control, Siri, Google Assistant |
| Enclosure Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 60 g |
| Manufacturer | FEYA |
| Model | X100 |
| Model Number | Y10 |
| Style Name | Y10 |
| Warranty Description | Warranty within 1 year from purchase |
Listed on Amazon as: FEYA Motorcycle Helmet Speakers High Battery Life Helmet Headset
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #8: An integrated Bluetooth modular helmet supports calls, music, FM radio, and GPS audio, with stated talk time of eight hours.
The ILM 953 combines a modular helmet with integrated Bluetooth 3.0, built-in speakers, and noise-cancelling microphones, allowing calls and music without fitting a separate headset. Its one-touch call controls and eight-hour talk time give commuters and touring riders a defined communication workflow.
Bluetooth 3.0 connects the helmet to a device and other riders, while built-in speakers and noise-cancelling microphones support calls, music, or voice commands. One-touch controls handle calling, answering, rejecting, and redialing; incoming calls override intercom, music, FM radio, and GPS audio. The listed eight-hour talk time and 110-hour standby clarify operating expectations. A washable microfiber lining and adjustable vents address upkeep and airflow, but the helmet runs one size smaller due to its built-in Bluetooth module.
- Integrated Bluetooth 3.0 system with speakers and noise-cancelling microphones
- Eight hours talk time and 110 hours standby
- One-touch calling, answering, rejecting, and redialing
- Washable microfiber lining and adjustable vents
- Runs one size smaller because of the built-in Bluetooth module.
Skip it if you want a standalone audio upgrade for your current helmet; Syphon SoundPro is a separate Bluetooth speaker set.
This suits riders who want a modular helmet with built-in calling, music, and intercom functions, plus a washable lining. Its smaller-running fit is an important selection factor, and its listed talk time is eight hours.
Full product details
| Brand | ILM |
|---|---|
| Color | Matte Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | ATV, Cruiser/ Touring, Scooter, Street Bike, UTV |
| Item Weight | 2.43 kg |
| Manufacturer | ILM |
| Part Number | 953-MB-S |
| Material | Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) |
| Model | 953 |
| Model Number | 953 |
| Style Name | dual-sport-motorcycles |
Listed on Amazon as: ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Motorcycle Helmet 953/953Pro/953Max
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#9
9. ScorpionEXO T520
- Weight: 4.8 lb
- Warranty Description: Limited Warranty
Best for: Bluetooth-ready touring helmet.
Why it ranks #9: A DOT and ECE-certified full-face helmet has Bluetooth-ready speaker pockets and a recess for EXO-COM Comm, which is not included.
Built-in speaker pockets make the ScorpionEXO T520 ready for an EXO-COM Comm installation, giving touring riders a helmet prepared for communications without supplied electronics. The included chin curtain helps reduce wind noise, while closeable intake vents and exhaust vents manage airflow as riding conditions change.
The built-in recess supports easy installation of the EXO-COM Comm, but the communication unit is not included, so buyers can select compatible electronics separately. The supplied Aero Skirt chin curtain helps reduce wind noise, while closeable intake vents and exhaust vents route air through the helmet. Its advanced polycarbonate shell and dual-density EPS are described as supporting impact displacement. The helmet is dual DOT/ECE certified; note that EXOCOM Link-1 and Link-1C do not fit its recess.
- Built-in recess for EXO-COM Comm installation
- Speaker pockets support a Bluetooth-ready setup
- Included chin curtain helps reduce wind noise
- Dual DOT/ECE certification
- EXO-COM Comm is not included, and EXOCOM Link-1 and Link-1C are incompatible.
Skip it if you want audio included with the helmet; Sena Phantom integrates speakers, microphone, and Bluetooth connectivity.
A practical choice for touring riders who want a full-face helmet with a prepared EXO-COM installation point and wind-noise-reducing chin curtain. The communications unit is separate, and the listed Link-1 models will not fit.
Full product details
| Brand | ScorpionEXO |
|---|---|
| Color | Zuse Phantom |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Motorcycle |
| Included Components | Helmet |
| Item Weight | 4.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ScorpionEXO |
| Part Number | T52-1226 |
| Material | Polycarbonate (PC) |
| Model | Exo-t520 Full Face Helmet Zuse |
| Model Number | EXO-T520 Full Face Helmet Zuse |
| Style Name | sporty |
| Warranty Description | Limited Warranty |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: ScorpionEXO T520 Full Face Touring Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Zuse (Phantom – X-Large)
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#10
10. Cardo 45mm Audio Set
- Warranty Description: Manufacturer Warranty
- Compatible Devices: Smartphone, Tablet, MP3 Player, Desktop…
- Audio Driver Size: 45 millimeters
Best for: Universal 45mm speaker upgrade.
Why it ranks #10: A speaker-only replacement set has 45mm drivers and a standard 3.5mm jack, but requires a compatible communicator for helmet audio use.
A standard 3.5mm jack lets Cardo’s 45mm Audio Set connect to practically any helmet communicator, making it a flexible speaker upgrade across brands. FREECOM and PACKTALK owners also get the listed JBL sound processor and firmware boost, while the set includes pads and Velcro.
The standard 3.5mm jack supports connection to practically any communicator, so riders can upgrade speakers without choosing a single communicator brand. The 45mm drivers provide the hardware, and included pads and Velcro support positioning them inside a helmet. FREECOM and PACKTALK owners can use the stated JBL sound processor and firmware pairing for an extra boost. Other communicator owners still get the speaker hardware, but the product is an audio set rather than a Bluetooth or intercom system on its own.
- Standard 3.5mm jack fits practically any communicator
- 45mm speaker drivers
- JBL sound processor and firmware boost for FREECOM and PACKTALK
- Includes two pads and Velcro
- Requires a separate helmet communicator; this set is speakers, not a complete headset.
Skip it if you need a complete Bluetooth intercom system; Fodsports FX-S includes two-way intercom and Bluetooth 5.4.
This is for riders upgrading speakers in a helmet communicator they already own, especially FREECOM or PACKTALK users seeking the JBL pairing. Check that a communicator is part of your setup; the set supplies no intercom unit.
Full product details
| Brand | Cardo |
|---|---|
| Audio Driver Size | 45 millimeters |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone, Tablet, MP3 Player, Desktop, Television, Laptop |
| Enclosure Material | Plastic |
| Manufacturer | Cardo |
| Model | 45mm Audio Set |
| Model Number | SPAU0010 |
| Style Name | 45mm Audio Kit |
| Warranty Description | Manufacturer Warranty |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Cardo 45mm Audio Set, Works with Most Helmet Communicators (Single Pack)
View on AmazonCheck communicator fit before buying speakers
A speaker set that fits inside a helmet may still fail to connect to your communicator. The Cardo 45mm Audio Set has a standard 3.5mm jack and is described as fitting practically any communicator, but confirm your unit has the matching connection and room for the larger speakers. Syphon SoundPro instead emphasizes a 9.6mm profile, which may help when liner space is tight, but its listing does not specify a connector or device compatibility details.
Helmet-ready pockets are not the same as included electronics: the ScorpionEXO T520 has a built-in recess for EXO-COM Comm, but the communicator is not included, and the listing warns that Link-1 and Link-1C will not fit. Before ordering, check the helmet’s speaker pockets, connector, communicator model, microphone arrangement, and available liner space.
A mismatch can leave you with audio hardware you cannot install or use.
Built-in audio versus add-on audio
Integrated audio reduces the need to assemble separate parts, while add-on gear lets you keep your existing helmet. The Sena Phantom and Sena Phantom XB combine a helmet and communication hardware, whereas the Cardo Spirit HD and Fodsports FX-S are communication systems intended to be added to a helmet. Speaker sets such as the Cardo 45mm Audio Set are narrower still: they upgrade audio hardware but do not provide a communicator by themselves.
That distinction affects what you need to buy and check for compatibility. Built-in systems can also tie your audio choice to a particular helmet; an add-on headset or speaker kit offers a different path if you already have a helmet that fits.
For the ILM 953, sizing deserves special attention because its listing says the helmet runs one size smaller due to the built-in Bluetooth module. Compare the whole setup, not just the speaker feature.
How to Choose Motorcycle Helmet Audio
Integrated helmet or add-on system
Choose between a helmet with built-in audio and a system fitted to your current helmet. The Sena Phantom and Sena Phantom XB integrate communications into full-face helmets; the ILM 953 is a modular helmet with Bluetooth 3.Add-on alternatives include the Cardo Spirit HD communicator and the Syphon SoundPro speaker kit.
The integrated end suits riders replacing a helmet who want audio and communication together. Add-on systems favour riders who want to retain their existing helmet, but they require checking fit and compatibility.
Note that the ScorpionEXO T520 has speaker pockets and an EXO-COM recess, but the communicator is not included, so the helmet alone does not provide that complete setup.
Communication features you actually need
Look for the specific connection features that match how you ride: music and calls alone differ from intercom between riders. The Sena Phantom offers WAVE or Mesh Intercom, while Cardo Spirit HD lists a two-rider Bluetooth intercom with a range up to 600 meters. Fodsports FX-S is also described as a two-way intercom system.
By contrast, the Cardo 45mm Audio Set is a speaker upgrade, not a complete communication system. Choose an integrated or add-on communicator if rider-to-rider communication is essential.
For solo listening, calls, or navigation, a headset focused on Bluetooth audio may be sufficient; verify the feature list rather than assuming every speaker kit includes intercom or a microphone.
Speaker fit and weather protection
Check speaker thickness and the stated weather protection against your helmet and riding conditions. Syphon SoundPro lists 9.6mm-thick speakers designed to sit under most helmet liners, while the Cardo 45mm Audio Set specifies 45mm drivers without a thickness figure. For standalone headsets, Wisdagaly Q08 lists IPX6 waterproofing and Cardo Spirit HD is described as waterproof; Fodsports FX-S lists IP67.
These protection ratings and claims are not interchangeable, and the listings do not establish how each setup performs in every condition. Choose the low-profile speaker format when liner space or comfort is your main concern.
If wet-weather exposure matters more, favour a product with an explicit waterproof rating or description, and confirm the full assembled setup is suitable.
Which Motorcycle Helmet Audio Setup Should You Choose?
For an all-in-one full-face helmet with integrated communications, choose the Sena Phantom: it combines Bluetooth, built-in speakers and microphone, WAVE or Mesh Intercom, and Harman Kardon audio. Pick the Sena Phantom XB if its acoustic audio chambers are the main draw. If you already own a helmet and want a communicator with intercom, the Cardo Spirit HD offers a stated two-rider range up to 600 meters; the Fodsports FX-S adds IP67 protection and two microphone types.
For a speaker upgrade where slim fit matters, consider Syphon SoundPro’s 9.6mm speakers. Choose the Cardo 45mm Audio Set only after confirming your communicator’s connector and fit.
If you are buying a helmet with speaker pockets, remember the ScorpionEXO T520 requires a separate compatible communicator.
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- Best Youth Motorcycle Helmet
- Best Motorcycle Helmet Sound System
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an aftermarket helmet speaker kit fit my helmet and existing communicator?
Check the helmet’s speaker pockets, available space, and the kit’s dimensions before buying. Confirm that the kit’s connector works with your communicator; a speaker set described as compatible with most communicators may still require a specific connection. If fit or connector details are unclear, verify them with the manufacturer.
Can I use helmet audio for rider-to-rider intercom as well as music and calls?
Yes, if you choose a communicator that supports intercom, rather than a speaker-only kit. The Cardo Spirit HD is described as a two-way Bluetooth communicator, and the Fodsports FX-S as a two-way helmet intercom system. Check the system’s compatibility and stated rider range for your intended setup.
How should I choose helmet audio without compromising hearing or awareness of traffic?
Choose a system that fits securely and lets you keep volume low enough to hear surrounding traffic. Avoid blocking your ears or turning audio up to overcome road noise. If you cannot hear important sounds clearly, pause playback or calls and adjust your setup before riding.
Does the ScorpionEXO T520 include a Bluetooth communicator?
No. The T520 has Bluetooth-ready speaker pockets, but it requires a separate compatible communicator for Bluetooth audio or intercom. Check the communicator’s fit and compatibility with the helmet before choosing it, and distinguish speaker pockets from an installed audio system.
What should I check before choosing the Cardo 45mm Audio Set?
Confirm that your helmet communicator supports the set’s connector and that the 45mm speakers fit your helmet’s speaker pockets. The product is described as working with most helmet communicators, but that does not guarantee compatibility with every model. Verify both details before ordering.
Final Words
Choose the Sena Phantom if you want a full-face helmet with integrated Bluetooth, speakers, microphone, and WAVE or Mesh Intercom. The Phantom XB is the alternative when its acoustic audio chambers and extreme-bass focus matter most. If keeping your helmet, compare communicator features and fit; the Cardo Spirit HD and Fodsports FX-S offer intercom, while speaker upgrades require connector and space checks.
For the T520, plan on a separate compatible communicator.


