How an Intercom and Radio System Works in a Vehicle
If you are brand new to this, this page is for you. Think of it this way: an intercom is for talking inside your own vehicle, and a radio is for talking to other vehicles in your group.
Intercom = In Your Vehicle
Driver and passengers talk clearly through headsets or helmet kits, even in loud rides.
Radio = Between Vehicles
Press your push-to-talk button to send your voice to your friends in other vehicles.
Bluetooth = Extra Audio
Many systems also let you stream music and connected audio from your phone.
Overview: What Happens When You Talk?
- 1) You speak into your mic. The intercom picks up your voice.
- 2) Everyone in your vehicle hears you. This can be hands-free voice activated comms (VOX).
- 3) You press PTT to talk to other vehicles. PTT sends your voice through your radio to the rest of your group.
Key Components
Intercom Unit
The brain for in-car communication. It manages voice between seats and connects with your audio setup.
Radio Unit
This is what sends and receives communication between your vehicle and other vehicles.
PTT Button
Your talk button for group comms. Press to transmit, release to listen.
Headsets or Helmet Kits
Your mic and speakers. You can choose over-head/behind-head headsets or helmet-based kits.
Cables and Jacks
These connect each seat and headset point to your intercom so everyone can hear and talk clearly.
Bluetooth Module/Support
Adds wireless audio like music playback on supported intercom systems.
Hands-Free in Car + PTT Out to Group
Inside the vehicle, many setups support voice activated communication, so you can talk naturally with your passengers.
When you want to talk to other vehicles, you use PTT (push-to-talk). This keeps your radio channel clean until you are ready to transmit.
Headset and Helmet Kit Choices
You can pick what fits your ride style:
Headsets
Great for open-cab setups and quick on/off use.
Helmet Kits
Built into helmets for a cleaner, tucked-away setup.
Earbud-Compatible Options
Some helmet kits support earbud styles for comfort and noise isolation preferences.
Offroad (Mono) vs STX (Stereo)
| System Type | How Audio Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Offroad (Mono) | The same audio signal is sent to both speakers. | Simple, clear communication. |
| STX (Stereo) | Left and right speakers carry separate audio channels. | Richer music and fuller listening experience. |
Quick Beginner FAQ
- Do I need both an intercom and a radio?
- If you only want to talk inside your own vehicle, intercom can be enough. If you want vehicle-to-vehicle comms, add a radio.
- Is this like a CB?
- Similar idea for group communication, but these systems are purpose-built for powersports and noisy vehicle environments.
- Can I listen to music too?
- Yes, many setups include Bluetooth connectivity for music and audio streaming.
Ready to Build the Right Setup?
Use the kit builder and choose the exact intercom, radio, headset, and mount options for your vehicle.
Build My Communication KitStart simple. You can always scale your system as your group grows.