Expanded range and enhanced audio comms are promised.
Wayne Gerdes -
CleanMPG - Feb. 1, 2011
Cardo latest motorcycle headset, the Scala Rider Q2 MultiSet PRO.
We have talked quite a bit about the
Cardo Scala Rider G4 Motorcycle Helmet Headset both as an introduction and its use during the
2010 Yamaha WR250X Adventure Touring Project Bike - X-Country at 100 + MPG. Scala Rider has gone one step further with their latest release.
Q2 MultiSet PRO Overview
Like the G4, the Q2 MultiSet PRO enables uninterrupted bike-to-bike and passenger-to-rider communication through a comfortable intercom headrest system. The technology allows true simultaneous talking between two parties. Through its advanced multi device connection technology, users can independently place mobile calls, listen to integrated FM radio, or MP3 music and also use the device as a person-to-person intercom. GPS device interactivity is included, and riders can receive GPS voice instructions through the headset without having to manually perform any operations.
Cardo says of their new PRO unit that they have improved the intercom system that offers ample range with crystal clear audio.
Audio features of the Q2 MultiSet PRO include a new feature, noise canceling headphones and the standard G4 inclusion of AGC technology which automatically adjusts microphone volume based on the amount of ambient noise. A new advancement not included in the G4 is called Embedded Packet Loss Concealment lets the system compensate for lost audio in real time, giving riders very clear conversations. Built in VOX technology allows riders to accept or reject calls through voice commands, helping them to concentrate on driving, not pressing control buttons. The dual speakers are designed to be compact for maximum driver fit and comfort.
The new Q2 PRO is stated to run for up to 8 hours of continuous talk time, providing riders with uninterrupted service for extended journeys which we hope proves to be the case.
The Scala Rider G4 while on the Road
The G4 provided excellent G4 to G4 communication, automatic gain control (auto volume) depending on outside ambient conditions (slowing down or speeding up) and an exceptionally long FM radio listening time of over 12-hours on a single charge in some instances. A very welcome respite for long day rides through many an urban environment.
Where we found the unit lacking was its stated Bluetooth enabled 10-hours of talk time proved to be just 3 to 4-hours of run time from the included Li-Ion battery when synched to a Bluetooth enabled phone. This amount of time would satisfy any short run ride but for Touring, I found it to be a bit short for my use.
In addition, the small buttons to change stations, volume and mode of operation were very cumbersome to use with winter riding gloves and the FM tuner would pick up only a few of the strongest local signals leaving out 10’s of local radio stations clearly picked up and heard from a standard car tuner.
The Q2 Pro appears not have had these shortcomings worked on so we will be waiting for Scala's next major release in hope the best Motorcycle Comms units currently available becomes even better
Joining the worldwide, top-of-the-line G4 Scala Rider and the Scala Rider TeamSet PRO, the new and improved Scala Rider Q2 PRO will enhance the best-selling line of Q2 motorcycle helmet headsets.
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