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**superj** · 12-21-2012, 10:53 AM

i got an odd time off schedule since our division level commander wants us to work

i get monday and tuesday off and then come back to work wednesday and thursday and then am off friday, monday, and tuesday again.

**newleaf150** · 12-22-2012, 11:19 PM

Oh, heck yea! I did 14mi this afternoon, after likely spending too much time playing with my O-tus speakers' placement on my helmet. These things are great! Even rolling over dry pavement (cement sidewalk-like MUP) at 20+mph with my studded tires, I could hear my music. I could also hear the normal trail sounds earbuds drown out: the crunch of my tires in snow, the splatting sound of them hitting slush, pedestrians' responses to my overtaking warning. I heard the clicking of my shifters and the normal occasional soft rattles from the contents of my trunk bag. I feel like I heard all the normal sounds I regularly hear on the route.

I picked some old-school guitar rock, today - will likely try some hardcore rap tomorrow. My helmet rather sucks for mounting the speakers, and I've got some tuning (more cutting) to do, though I'm happy with the overall installation process. More to come. I was excited about these before; now, I'm thrilled.

synack · 12-28-2012, 12:39 PM

I plan to do a review of these as soon as the relatives are out of my house, and I can get back to riding.

**kneedrachen** · 01-10-2013, 01:50 PM

I installed mine and was a bit skeptical. I kinda thought I wouldn't need them or find them useful but figured I'd give them a shot anyway.

Some background info:

For music, I decided to use a 4th generation Ipod touch since if it fell it wouldn't be a loss since it has been superceded by two new devices.

I wear a Pearl Izumi P.R.O. softshell jacket with the exposed "Napolean" pocket on the left chest.

I am using a Specialized Echelon helmet with foam that is beveled away from your head.

I follwed the instructions (super simple) and opted to not cut/flatten the foam on my helmet, simply because as a long-time motorcyclist, I do not modify my helmet. The speakers are actually angled away from my head, which I figured might ruin the entire experience since the instructions explicity state to have the speakers pointing either straight down or angled towards you.

I also opted to carry the Ipod in my front "Napolean" pocket, so I routed the wires forward rather than to the back of my helmet. Doing it this way is fine for me, but the wires are a little short for full neck rotation to my right.

I did not have access to Itunes to change the settings in my Ipod, which the instructions state will help with increasing the available voume.

Anyway, I have to say, this is a great product. I've found I do not need the volume cranked up all of the way, even with a set of 180s "earcovers" on. The music is not in your ears like with earbuds or headphones, but it's more "ambient" kind of like if you were to sit in an office and someone has their radio on, you hear it, but it isn't all encompassing. Sound projection, even pointed away from my ears, is amazing. Sound clarity is also great, nice clear highs and strong lows.

I have noticed, some increased wind noise/whistle, mostly on my left side, with the speakers installed, but not turned on. I attribute this to having the speakers sticking out a bit. Not a big deal, and most likely from my own doing. I would expect had I followed the directions, the wind noise would not be present or would be decreased; I should also mention the noise is present at speeds over 17 MPH. Under that, no noise at all.

If you do not wish to put your device on the rear of your helmet, I would suggest that you get an extension cord to run between your device and the speakers. The wires are short by design, but since I didn't not have my device routed/stored as intended in the instructions, I noticed an extension would be beneficial.

Long story short, the speakers give awesome sound that doesn't block out ambient sounds. While I enjoy the peace and quiet of being on the bike, sometimes having some music with you makes the ride better. If you follow the instructions, I predict you will be incredibly happy. If you decide to store your device elsewhere, I'd suggest an extension cord to run between the speakers and your device. All in all, an awesome product and the cost is well worth it, even at double the price.

**ksr5** · 01-10-2013, 02:58 PM

My son bought me these for xmas I have them installed did not get out to try them.

**newleaf150** · 01-10-2013, 03:56 PM

I'm thrilled with mine. Full winter review soon - it's in the pipeline. I'm amazed at how well they work in spite of the clatter of my studded tires and muffling effect of cozy hats.