It is remarkable how devices that were updated recently (2022) no longer have a traditional FM-radio, due to the troublesome supply of electronic chips and components.
The reason behind that decision is that it is better to have a proper functioning intercom without FM-radio than no intercom at all, so the least essential element is cut.
This obviously doesn’t mean you have to go through life in silence now: there’s still the option to listen to music through your smartphone or external MP3-player or even to an online FM-station with weblink. It even sounds better, without static. The only disadvantage is that the data usage of your smartphone gets a little boost on the way.
SENA keeps innovating and reinventing itself. Even in the 'low' numbers: the SENA range starts at 3 and ends at 50, with numerous side-steps and variations. The basic idea is: the lower, the more 'normal'. Unless of course, as SENA is now doing, you turn the old SMH5 into a completely updated 5S.
Take out everything that's slightly outdated and add more than a few technological leaps everywhere. The HD-speakers for example provide a very pleasant sound in your helmet, the integrated LCD screen on the intercom unit is handy to keep an overview at all times and the Bluetooth 5 keeps a constant and secure connection.
This connection is 'limited' to two people and over a distance of 700 meters*. These – and only these – two things ensure that this intercom keeps the number 5. All the rest is high-level.
*in open terrain
This SENA 5S comes with accompanying holder. In this case, it's the holder that you attach to the helmet (using a clip system or adhesive), not the intercom module itself. It just clicks into the holder. The SENA 5S is delivered with a "Boom type" microphone, for the use in a system or jet helmet and a built-in microphone, for the use in a full-face helmet. Thus, the 5S is suitable for every type of helmet. The operation of the SENA 5S is done by means of a swivel plate or "Jog Dial", as if you were scrolling through menus.
For those who mainly chat with their passenger or fellow rider(s), this is absolutely sufficient and, in any case, top notch!
The 5S is available as a 'Single or Dual' kit. SENA products enjoy a 2-year warranty and are 'firmware upgradable'.
General remark: The world of electronics (which also includes intercoms, smartphones, GPS, etc.) changes so quickly that it is possible that some (outdated) devices are not compatible with each other in certain areas. Unfortunately, the manufacturer can't provide us with data that shows which combinations between intercoms/GPSs and/or smartphones cause problems. A regular update of all electronic devices is therefore desirable to avoid problems as much as possible.
