8.17.2020

SENA SMH-5 Headphones Mod

 I've been using a pair of Sena SMH5 headsets since 2013, with a set of the "upgraded" speakers.  Around town and on bikes with a decent fairing, the audio is pretty good. However, on a naked bike,  or on the highway, the wind noise can easily overpower the intercom audio.  With that being the only real down side to these units, I didn't want to drop the change on a newer unit.   I saw some ear buds that are also noise blocking earplugs, so started researching adding an audio out for the SMH5.  There are factory cables and bases for the SMH10 but little to no support for the 5.   There is a company that will modify your unit for about $40 but I like my DIY projects. 

A quick search on Amazon and I found these 3.5mm screw terminals for about $8 per 2 pack.  With the parts in hand, and some time to tinker, I had them done in about 10 min.  The speaker wires are thin, really thin.  So be careful stripping the shielding away.  I used a razor blade and my thumb.  You'll know when you're pressing too hard, either you cut through the wire or your skin.  





Much success!  I tested them with cheap set of headphones and they sounded terrible.  PANIC MODE! But wait, let's test with nicer headphones.  Much better.  Now, I need to find a way to mount (probably hot glue gun) this to my helmet and seal it up against the elements.   I'm looking forward to testing it out after I order the plugphones

No comments: