Headsets and Helmets Installation Experiences

Eric506

Eric506

Joined
Jan 8, 2005
Messages
39
Location
Chelmsford, MA
Bike
2010 ST1300
I am considering buying the JMCB 2003-DU radio/intercom system. I have not decided whether to get the J&M or the EDSETS helmet speakers/mic etc.

I am considering several flip up helmets for my pillion and myself to install the headsets into.

The question is what have been the challenges involved with installing the helmet speakers, mic and running the wires in either the Shoei Multi-tec, HJC Symax II or the Nolan N103 (I know if I go with the J&M helmet headset I can get it pre-installed in a Nolan N103, but the price is high and I might chose the EDSETS.)

The speakers seem like the challenge or is it the whole job that is challenging? Any carving out of the foam, cutting, trimming, etc OR do all of these helmets accommodate the pieces very nicely?

Experiences and war stories welcomed. Detail is good...
 
Can't speak to the Nolan but the Shoei MT and Symax (I and II) -- and I have all three -- are a breeze to install. Pop-out liners and ample speaker space make the installation a 10 minute task. Tuck the wires with the provided popsicle stick and you're good to go.

One minor upgrade you might enjoy: Buy some velcro pads to improve upon the placement and security of the speakers.
 
Eric,

I am currently looking at the EDSETS. The custom configured set.

I only have a Zumo. Shoei MT helmet.

Looks like a nice way to go instead of my flopping in the breeze earbuds that, always fall out when either removing the helmet or, sometimes putting it on. :mad:

I am considering getting a Jensen radio in the future. Don't need or want cell phone connectivity. Don't need a mic either.
 
Big Red said:
unless you have a very quiet riding environment, isolator ear speakers are the best way to get good sound quality or a a big set of speakers
Click to expand...

I have the J&M Elite headset, and the sound quality is exceptional - wide dynamic range and plenty of volume on tap...even with ear plugs.
 
I'm a major fan of EDSETS, having been through multiple J&M headsets. My EDSETS has yet to fail whereas I can't remember how many J&M headsets I replaced the lower cords on - and I tend to use mine almost everyday! I've installed several headsets in the HJC CL-MAX and it did require some 'foam' carving for the earphones. I just popped out the earpad styrofoam, put a circle saw on my drill, and cut holes big enough for the earphones to rest in. It depends on the particular helmet and whether it has room as designed for the earphones. It just takes a little patience and care - no big deal to install.
 
I have a Nolan 102, not the 103, but the 102 does have speaker cavities built in that are the right size for the J&M or the Edsets. I originally had the J&M when I had my Goldwing as the J&M was completely compatible with the GL1800 audio system. After nothing but problems and very poor customer service from J&M I started serching and discovered Edsets. Edsets= easier to install and absolutely zero problems...I still feel Edsets is a great product even though I prefer the Autocom brand in my ST1300.

The hardest part of the install is the speakers though mounting the mic and routing the wiring isn't exactly my favorite activity..not hard, just not fun. If your Nolan 103 does have the speaker cavities you are way ahead of the game.

BTW, there's a good chance you will find the Zumo volume through headsets somewhat underwhelming as many of us have found. The Amplirider amp is the perfect solution for this. I very recently got one and am very pleased. I ride with earplugs which was just too much for the Zumo's volume to overcome...even through the Autocom. Only the Zumo is underpowered, my other devices have more volume capability than I'd ever need...the Escort 9500ix would blast me off the bike if set higher than about 1/4.
 
I thought the speaker install into my HJC full face was relatively easy. Hardest part was the microphone which needed some carving into the chin bar to mount but you won't have that problem with the mic on a boom for your flip up helmet (I assume you don't want to hard mount the mic since it would then be unusable with the helmet flipped up). I have the JMC Elite headset and unlike Phil, I have had no problems with it, or the lower cord, in 4 years and 30,000 miles of use.
 
This is great input so far.

I have seen that there is a recurring lower cord issue with the J&M sets. Is that for the rider's set or also the passenger's lower cord as well?
 
Ed will do the same with the shipping and install. I would suggest you go with the Ed Set. I have the top end J&M headset, and I much prefer my Edset. That's my two cents. I put my own Edset in. He ships with good instructions, and installation is a breeze IMO.

One good thing about J&M is that they have always repaired or fixed any problem I have had in the past without charge. I'm sure Ed would do the same if the problem was something on his part. I will say that I am yet to have a failure with the Edset. Hope this helps.
 
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