Sena SMH10 Bluetooth Communicator Headset | Product Review

Sena Technologies has quickly established itself as one of the leaders in the Bluetooth communicator market for motorcycles, with the company’s SMH10 (since replaced as Sena’s flagship model by the new 20S communicator, which we’re in the process of testing now) leading the way. The SMH10 features Bluetooth 3.0 technology, the capability for four-way conference intercom as well as two-way intercom up to a claimed 900 yards in line-of-sight distance, and Bluetooth pairing for up to two mobile phones or MP3 audio devices, playing in A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) stereo music with AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile) playback and cell phone hands-free control with easy operation via the patented Sena jog dial. Other points in its long list of features include an integrated audio booster, Advanced Noise Control to deal with wind noise, compatibility with other brand Bluetooth intercoms, etc.

As with all other Sena communicators, the SMH10 installs on easily on nearly every helmet we’ve tried, with its standard clamp mount (a stick-on mount is also included), boom or wired microphone, and slim speakers provided with all necessary installation accessories. Sound with both intercom and music was excellent, and Sena’s big advantage over other brands we’ve tried is not only clarity but volume as well; you can still hear conversation or music even while riding a sportbike at 80 mph. The SMH10 is also lighter than many competitors we’ve tried.

As far as gripes, the Bluetooth pairing was easy to other devices, but to other intercoms it occasionally took some fiddling. While the sound quality is much better than the lower Sena models, the speakers are slightly thicker, so some helmets may cause discomfort. And bike-to-bike intercom range was acceptable, but any obstructions will drop that range considerably. Nonetheless, we were still impressed with the SMH10’s performance.

Details:
Sena SMH10 Bluetooth Communicator Headset
Retail: $209-$399
sena.com, (866) 887-7362