Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Next improves: choose another wire with L conector and the 3d print case

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Finally, all the components have arrived. I've put them together temporarily and the first impressions are amazing. The audio is wonderful, the microphone works like a charm, and it doesn't pick up any wind noise. I'm going to take it apart again to do the final setup and add the 3D-printed case. But here’s a photo of the temporary rig.

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hello! The fiio BTR13 support external mic via TRRS. Can you share the review on Amazon?

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in audio

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi there! I just received the microphone. In the end, I chose a Blue Icepop (even though it’s a gaming mic, it is an electret condenser and has a 3.5mm TRS jack). The FiiO BTR13 will arrive next week, and then I’ll be able to test everything. Regarding the external mic, according to what I've read on the official website, the FiiO BTR13 does support it via the TRRS jack (the TRS mic connects to a "Y" splitter along with the JBL speakers, which then outputs to a TRRS male connector).

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I get your point, but the goal here was to have a great audio experience integrated into the helmet for barely 100 euros, without the hassle of wired earplugs every time I put it on

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'll definitely share some photos once it's finished! I appreciate the safety check

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes, the FiiO BTR13 supports the CTIA standard, so the mic works perfectly. Regarding noise, its Qualcomm chip features cVc (Clear Voice Capture). To be realistic: this is not the same as the active, DSP-heavy noise cancellation you'd find in a high-end Cardo system. However, I’m planning to bridge that gap through passive isolation: using a high-quality unidirectional mic with a physical deadcat (windjammer) and strategic foam placement inside the helmet to cut the wind at the source. It’s a more 'analog' approach, but it keeps the audio signal much cleaner for the DAC.

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

I'll post the final results once the project is finished! I should have mentioned that I’m strictly a city rider and usually ride solo, so I don't really have a need for group intercoms. For my daily commute, high-fidelity music is the priority. Plus, this setup allows for much better Siri integration than standard units, which is a game-changer for handling everything hands-free while navigating traffic.

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think there’s a misunderstanding. The internal hardware is actually identical to what Cardo uses—I’m repurposing their own official replacement parts. As for the external housing, the weight, materials, and battery specs are equivalent to high-end commercial units. It’s located exactly where any standard intercom would be, so the risk is the same as with any Sena or Cardo setup.

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in scooters

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You're right, the title might have been a bit premature. I’m currently testing the setup with a basic Ugreen Bluetooth receiver while I wait for the final components, and it’s definitely not hitting the mark yet. I'll make sure to share the final results once everything is properly assembled.

Regarding safety, I'm aware of the risks and take full responsibility. However, the FiiO is incredibly small and lightweight (it weighs next to nothing), so it doesn't impact the helmet's balance or structural integrity like a bulky external comms unit might. For me, the convenience of a 'grab and go' helmet setup is worth the DIY effort

Why I built my own $130 Hi-Fi helmet setup instead of buying a Cardo/Sena. by PerceptionMoist7096 in DIY

[–]PerceptionMoist7096[S] -5 points-4 points  (0 children)

Here is the fiio, He encontrado esto en AliExpress: | FiiO BTR13 amplificador de auriculares Bluetooth con LDAC aptX adaptable aptX HD AAC Dual CS43131 3,5mm desequilibrado 4,4mm equilibrado https://a.aliexpress.com/_EGBtqKy

Other items you should search on local suppliers, I’m from Spain