View Full Version : Intercom-friendly closed face helmets?
I've been trying to get registered on Special Stage to pose this, but can't seem to get an admin to acknowledge my account.
Does anyone have any recommendations for closed face helmets that work well for mounting an intercom? Specifically a TerraPhone (Which really isn't much different from the Peltor closed face kit)? Currently I'm using an HJC AR-11 but the cheek pads opposite my ears are made of high density foam. With the ear pieces on the other side of the foam I really can't make out my co-driver any better than having him yell at me. I've considered trying to hollow out or modify the cheek pieces but I'm really not comfortable structurally changing the helmet. Its also an SA2000 so its on the block to be replaced soon anyway.
Switching intercoms isn't an option for another of reasons, closed face is a requirement. I've looked at the Peltor closed face which would work with an adapter, but I really don't like it, I'd rather get a helmet I'm comfortable with that will fit my existing Terraphone kit.
409industries
08-30-2010, 11:19 AM
The easiest option would be to get a Peltor helmet and just use the Terraphone to Peltor adaptor. I found a good deal on a full face Peltor helmet on ebay for about $300 that the intercom works great in.
Had to install some HANS posts though.
It would be the easiest, but I'm not kidding when I say I REALLY don't like Peltor helmets, open or closed face. I can't stand they way they feel on my head, at least their closed face option. I will not wear an open face helmet.
KevinWelker
08-30-2010, 04:53 PM
Try on a Stilo helmet. I simply love mine, I could wear it all day.
I do really like Stilos but I can't really find any 100% information about whether or not they can talk to a Terraphone. I BELIEVE the Trophy helmets can, but the WRC helmets definitely can't.
I can't change intercom systems because the vehicle is shared and there's a number of other headsets involved. To change out a $100 TerraPhone now would mean three times that in headsets.
KevinWelker
08-30-2010, 10:40 PM
The SP2 model closed face helmet works with the Stilo Trophy amplifier and has an adapter for the Terraphone system. Part AC0100 24 pounds at Rallynuts.com
http://www.stilo-helmets.com/rally/int_tro.htm
Hmm, thats promising. Thanks!
I assume the description means it isn't a Peltor-style earmuff design:
As with the Trophy Rally, this helmet is designed for competitors driving Group N or less noisy cars. It is the only full face helmet in its class to be sold complete with integrated intercom system.
Not that my Audi is that loud. :) (It'd be quieter if I got around to fixing the exhaust!)
Safe Drives
08-31-2010, 10:07 AM
I have used the Gforce Pro Elliminator for about 5 years of stage rally now and also use Terraphone. It works great, it's lighter than the competitions helmets in this price range ($249) and the liners in the helmet are very durable. I have also sold a bunch of the Gforce Pro Modified helmets to rally folks with zero complaints from them as well. Check 'em out give me a ring with any questions. :)
http://safedrives.com/products.asp?cat=81
UP2MTNS
08-31-2010, 10:11 AM
just curious, why is closed face mandatory? Just a personal preference (which I would understand), or are you doing some other track stuff that requires closed face?
Totally personal preference, I don't feel at all comfortable in an open face helmet. No rules requirements.
Charles: Thanks, I'll have a look. I haven't tried too many G-Force helmets on. Its so hard to tell what helmet has a lining/padding that will work well with earpieces. Hence my thread. :)
On a vaguely related subject I just wired in a Peltor closed face setup into my wife's helmet for Targa next week. Holy CRAP those earpieces are HUGE compared to the Terraphones! Granted the whole setup seems to be much higher quality, but stll. Her helmet is even worse for space than mine! Its bad enough that, if there was time, I'd be buying her a new helmet for the event since she has to wear it for a week straight. Oh well, we managed to make something work that isn't too bad, but I cringe thinking about it.
(Lesson I shouldn't have to learn! Don't do these things 4 days before leaving!)
There's no way at all that I could use the Peltors inside my HJC. I wouldn't be able to fit my head in the helmet afterwards. :shock:
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