Chatterbox XBI Bluetooth Communicator For Motorcycles
19
August 2008
File under BluetoothGadgets
Author: Mike Werner
Location: Normandy, France
American company, Chatterbox, have released their latest motorcycle wireless intercom gear: XBi.
XBi uses the wireless protocol Bluetooth version 2, with A2DP (meaning HiFi stereo broadcast).
The rechargeable Li-pol (lithium polymer) battery will last you between 6 and 8 hours of continuous operation (meaning 6-8 hours of uninterrupted music, chatting, phone calls, etc). You can do an express recharge of the battery, taking up only 1 hour.
The XBi is a helmet clip-on unit, meaning you can move the unit from helmet to helmet (in contrast with the glue-on units).
Screws tighten the holder onto your helmet, so no need to worry about the unit blowing away. It'll hold securely and firmly without damaging your motorcycle helmet.
You have two types of XBi kits; open face helmets and full face helmets, and you'll need to order accordingly.
The XBi can be used on its own, since you can interface (pair) the unit with audio (like an iPod or MP3 player), GPS (like Garmin Zumo or TomTom Rider) and with a Bluetooth enabled mobile phone.
To properly use the GPSs (or devices that do not have their own Bluetooth), it is recommended that you use the ChatterBox iCombi AG-12 Bluetooth connector. Many wireless headsets have reported problems with the GPSs, and maybe this will solve the problem.
The iCombi plugs into any device with a 3.5mm headphone jack and is powered by its own rechargeable battery. A specific version for the iPod also exists (iCombi AP-21 US$49.99).
Price: US$ 59.99
If you want to talk to your pillion, you'll need to buy a second XBi. Once paired, both units will always function as intercom when turned on. You'll be able to talk to each other with needing to shout or gesture.
However, you can not both be listening to music and talking, you'll need to select one or the other. Selection is done by pressing the function button on the headset. The same applies for switching to the mobile phone.
The unit is not rain/water proof. It'll survive with no problems when there are a few drops, but if it starts pouring down, better put some plastic on it.
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