Cardo Freecom 4X Review

[@mjwoner]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video. The place is filled with unboxing, setup and promotional videos but not enough review videos with in-depth information. I'm out searching for my first intercom and trying to decide between the 4x, 2x and Spirit HD, and your video has helped me the most of understanding the unit.

[@KODEGREY]

Happy I could help man!! I would go for the 4x. If for no other reason than the voice commands. It makes it very easy to use and you don't have to fumble around with gloves on. I've never tried the Spirit HD so I can't really comment on that one.

[@mjwoner]

@@KODEGREY I went with the 4X shortly after watching your video. Found a local deal I just couldn’t pass. Thanks again, you got a new sub in me!

[@KODEGREY]

@@mjwoner That's awesome man!! Don't forget to open the Cardo App before you ride or the voice commands won't work. And thank you very much for the Sub!! Most appreciated!!

[@riEccoliEccoli]

My experience after two week of 4X use : used as single unit , perfect sound + radio+music+ vocal command. Used as interphone with my wife , regardless my setting in the Cardo app and the (2) hi density covers for the microphone , i have a continuos intermittent connection due to the wind canceling algorithm , non performing very well. we must keep completely close the helmet to reduce this annoyng problem. My old Cardo G9 performed better than 4X (only for this feature)

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks for the heads-up man!! I've yet to use this feature. But my wife just started riding last week. So I planned on getting her a headset too. I will definitely keep that issue in mind! Thanks for the comment man!! I appreciate it!!

[@OutbackOutlaw]

I have a cardo but it stopped working some time a few years back and haven’t bothered getting a new one. But I liked it when it worked. Great review mate

[@KODEGREY]

I like it so far. Really helpful with the GPS. Listening to music while riding is a new thing for me though. Thanks Outback!!

[@markkitaoka8783]

I wanted to let you know the reasons I subscribed. I found your information about 'unboxing' aligns with my own. I could care less about unboxing. I have never had a comm device so I used earbuds and then OSHA ear speakers, but after a time they hurt my ears. I was not even aware of the Cardo Freecom 4X, so I bought the Cardo Edge off Amazon for 279.00 and don't ride in groups, primarily alone most times. I appreciated your comment that the Cardo app MUST be opened even though the vocal prompt tells me that I'm connected when I power up the unit. All useful information that I experienced firsthand as well. For my gf, I will now get either a Freecom 4X, 2X, or something less expensive than my Edge. Thanks again.

[@KODEGREY]

I tried the earbud thing too for awhile. But they really start to bother your ears. Yeah man, I like to see what's in the box for myself. I like a good review, but I don't need to see it opened. You will like the 4x. Plus it gets updated fairly regularly. I really appreciate that you stopped by the channel! And I really appreciate the sub!!

[@soldier09r]

I've heard of this brand and have been weary about it since Sena has been the biggest name forever now! Good review!

[@KODEGREY]

Yeah. Sena and Cardo have been fighting for that ( Who's the Best ) title for awhile now. Some years it's Sena, and some it's Cardo who get the best reviews. Can't go wrong with either one I think. Thanks for the comment man!! And Big thank you for the sub!! Most appreciated!!

[@wsmv]

Great video Kode, quality is top notch. Many of these intercoms are very similar, but having voice control is amazing. Getting decent sound quality inside my helmet has always been difficult, also very tinny, will have to look at the positioning because I didn't realise it was so important 👍👍

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks Phil!! I appreciate that man!! I had no idea position would be so important either. But it made a world of difference! It went from ( This is almost awful ) to ( oh this is actually pretty good! ).

[@RoadsOfOz]

Nice review. Last year, i bought the Sena. Amazed how far they have come since I bought my first bluetooth headset.

[@KODEGREY]

Yes! Especially with the voice activation! It makes it so easy! Safer too!!

[@streetsean]

Great review! I've been thinking about getting a comms system more for talking to a passenger and not necessarily for music. Making sure the app is open may become frustrating especially when you think it's voice activated.

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks man!! Yeah you basically have to train yourself to have your phone in hand when you turn the unit on.

[@ChopperFett]

Solid review man! I’ve been contemplating updating my 20S EVO to something else but then I always remind myself I don’t ride with a need for comms all that often. My shockwave in the Rurocs allow the phone connection for music and gps so I think I just talked myself out of it haha.

[@KODEGREY]

Haha!! Can it connect to other units?? Thanks Brett!!

[@kevink1214]

I never understood the unboxing videos. You can look up what comes in the box. I am interested more in the product itself and how it actually works

[@KODEGREY]

Totally agree man!! Besides, unboxing is like opening a Christmas gift. I don't want to watch someone else open it for me!!

[@MRTPR]

Wow, I think it is the first time I have seen you face, Mate. Suits your voice perfectly. Great review, I purchased a cheap and cheerful $50 unit from China. My mate and I have had them for many years and they have been faultless. Just lucky sometimes (BT S 2). Your unit certainly looks like great value. My cheap $50 is very basic. Take care

[@KODEGREY]

I have shown my face before. But I don't do it often. Still feels awkward! 🤷. As long as it works for you, that's all that matters!

[@BensDad2003]

KG, nice review! I have the 4+ from Cardo and would definitely agree with all of your pros and cons for the unit.

[@KODEGREY]

They are good units. I still haven't tried to hook up to another unit, but I do plan on getting my wife one so we will see.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Thanks KG for a very helpful video. Recently brought one here in the UK and used it for the first time on a trip to France with a couple of friends. Sadly they both had Sena so were able to use mesh which made life awkward. So much so I lost them on the way back home. However you have solved one issue for me when you said about connecting to the phone app for music. We did manage to speak to each other at times during our trip but it kept dropping out. My mates kept telling me that for bike to bike chat I needn't go through the app were they correct. When its working its great but I just need to know whether I am using it correctly. Stay safe out there.

[@therealtashiro]

I bought the Cardo Freedom 4X dual pack. Had some issues with feedback, delayed intercom and a buzzing noise. After some trouble shooting I came to the conclusion it was either the full face mic and /or the cradle for the Cardo unit. I must say, the experience I've had with Cardo customer support has been awful!

[@KODEGREY]

I bought another 4X for my wife about 3 months ago. I've no problem with any buzzing noise. But there is a delay. I only noticed it when we are standing close to each other and not when we are on our bikes. Thanks for the comment man! Appreciate you stopping by the channel.

[@mmotorcycles9497]

Your setup always seems top notch and always seems like your trying to improve on it.

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks man!! I appreciate that! I do try and get everything as best as I can get it. I don't want anyone annoyed with audio or video quality while watching the video.

[@theadventurousrider]

Never thought of unboxing as a Christmas present opening but your right!

[@KODEGREY]

Most of those videos I don't mind watching, but there are a few that I just have to see it for myself first!

[@BikesBeardsAndBrews]

You can probably just hit up cardo and they will send you the replacement mic. If not let me know, I have a spare

[@KODEGREY]

Probably not a bad idea!

[@TheRhythmicBiker]

Maybe I'll look into Cardo whenever my Sena 20S packs in, I only ever use it when talking to UncleRed (Way too bloody often). Thank you for the review mate, very informative, looking forward to hearing what you think about once you've used it more. Hope you're well bud.

[@KODEGREY]

I'm hoping to get one for my wife once she starts riding. Then I'll really know if all the functions work well!

[@Txcowboy80]

Thanks for the post. I've decided to to purchase one.

[@crumblymal8479]

Hey KG in my ignorance I thought that the cardo was just for talking on the move to other riders or pillions but apparently not it's like a stereo system for your helmet , interesting worth a thought i reckon 😊👍

[@KODEGREY]

Yeah, its really helpful with the GPS too! Listening to directions is a whole lot easier than looking at your phone. And safer! Thanks Crumblymal!!

[@Wind.Road.Therapy]

Glad that you got that all squared away. Enjoy, I know that I have always liked my Sena 30K

[@KODEGREY]

I think Sena and Cardo are pretty much tied for quality.

[@tonykivanc]

Thnx for the video, I just ordered a freecom 4x. Hopefully i like the sound

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks for stopping by the channel!! Appreciate it!! I think you will really like it. My wife started riding since I've made this video and she has this Cardo unit too. The connection to each other works perfectly and sounds really good too.

[@SkeleSteve]

Volume setting 1 whispering, setting two blown out bleeding ear drum!!! Got it 🤣 Pretty neat that the settings are app based and good on them for using JBL! Good review Kode!!!

[@KODEGREY]

The thumb wheel is good for minor adjustments...but yeah...a whisper or a death metal concert in your ears!!

[@exeterrider]

I have a cheap eejas, to be honest, it's been amazing. I'll look into the cardo next time. Thanks for the info 👍

[@KODEGREY]

If it works well for you that's all that matters! Doesn't have to be a brand name. Only reasons I went with Cardo was because they are highly recommended and I figured it would be easier to connect with more riders if the situation arises. Thanks Exeter!!

[@dgbtech1163]

Thank you for this amazing review! Just have one question. I have a R1 air like yours and was wondering for installation if you have any tips. Someone told me that there was some kind of clip inside that you can install the speaker in and not use the Velcro sticker but did you noticed it? Thank you have a nice summer and ride safe.

[@KODEGREY]

Thank you for stopping by the channel, and the comment!! There is no clip inside the helmet. There are cut out sections inside the helmet meant for speakers, but I wouldn't use those unless they are perfectly inline with your ears. Your best bet it to use the Velcro so you can get perfect placement. If the speakers aren't directly over your ear holes you will lose a lot of sound quality! Thanks again!!

[@Dave30867]

Thanks for your Input on the system . 😉👍

[@KODEGREY]

No problem! Happy to do it. And thanks for the comment!!

[@ThrottleDownunder]

Great video KG. Cardo seems to be the go to now for sure

[@KODEGREY]

Yeah. Cardo or Sena. Best chance of being able to connect with other riders who have the same thing. Thanks Rob!!

[@roadwarrior8560]

Torn between a Freecom 4x and the packtalk slim and packtold bold. price dif is very little between them, they all have jbl speakers. ( the bold comes with a 2 helmet wiring kit with one unit) subbed

[@KODEGREY]

Thank you for the sub!! I do appreciate it man!! For me it was 2 things, the price point and the voice commands. I also don't need to connect to a big group so the Freecom 4X was perfect for me. Which ever one you decide to get, make sure it has voice commands!! It is SO useful.

[@truckinbiker]

Good review.. I've never used a comm but have been thinking about looking into one

[@KODEGREY]

Really good for GPS or taking a phone call if you really need to. Music while riding is a personal preference. Sometimes I like it, other times I just want to hear the bike.

[@vondrz1391]

Quality review. Dont mount your unit with the clip. Shoulder hits the jog wheel and is very irritating

[@KODEGREY]

That's a very good tip!! I didn't use the clip myself. So luckily I didn't run into that problem. Thanks for stopping by the channel and leaving a comment! And subbing!! Really appreciate it man!

[@Saddlebags73]

Good info Kode. I’m the same when it comes to returning stuff. I find it a PITA 😏

[@KODEGREY]

Same here!! If it's not completely broken or really cheap, chances are really high I won't return it!! Thanks Saddlebags!!

[@bikerbardy]

The voice control is not brilliant, it tends to randomly turn on the radio which can be very annoying. This was a problem on the Freecom 4+, I recently swapped to a Freecom 2X. The 2X does everything the 4+ does but no voice control so that issue is resolved, I can do everything I need from the built in system on my bike, another reason why I don't need voice control. The 2X also has more up to date firmware and it has C type USB so I only need one lead for charging when touring. It has the JBL 40mm speakers so great sound quality which has several options in the Cardo app unlike the 4+. It also updates the firmware via the bluetooth connection through the app, no need to connect it to a pc anymore.

[@KODEGREY]

I've never tried the 4+ only the 4X. I guess I've been lucky so far, I haven't had any issues with the voice control. Unless I forget to say things fluently and separate my words, then it can get sketchy. I don't have the controls on my bike so I really like the voice control. I definitely get the updates frequently too, actually just got one today for the 3.0 firmware update today! 😂. No PC for me either, strictly Bluetooth. Thanks for stopping by the channel man!! I appreciate the comment!

[@BoltBucket]

im number 1 on ya Speed Dial right?

[@KODEGREY]

Well obviously!!!

[@Gchild-mos0311]

Hello week two as a new rider (2022 ninja 400 abs )and was thinking of getting this unit because I sometimes make phone calls while riding and person on phone unable to hear me at all (AirPods Pro)

[@KODEGREY]

That's awesome you're a new rider!! The Ninja 400 was a great choice for your first bike too!! So far this unit has been working great for me. Especially with the voice commands. You don't have to touch anything, just tell it what you want.

[@andywatts-r4n]

good honest review But all I wanted to know was does this unit have a local radio function? I still dont know so a poor review sorry m8

[@RidingHumboldtCounty]

Sounds great buddy Good video!

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks Greg!! Appreciate it man!!

[@giocharizo]

Hey dudes. I want to ask about a fiture called "multitasking". Have you ever try to communicate with pasenger while playing music or radio? I mean, we have 2 units in 2 helmets at same motorcycle. Driver and passenger, we listen music and someone say something. What happened in this case? Is the volume of music going down and when dialogue end music come on? And all of this being automatically whiteout pushing button or give voice command. Thank u

[@KODEGREY]

I haven't used this function while listening to music, but I have used it while listening to my GPS. My wife and I both now have this Cardo unit. And when she speaks to me the voice on the navigation goes very quiet. I have talked to other people with this unit and they say it's the same while listening to music. The music goes very quiet while someone is talking. Hope this helps. And thanks for stopping by the channel man!! Appreciate it!

[@giocharizo]

@@KODEGREY thanks a lot 🙏🙏🙏

[@HarleyThrottleJuice]

I’m not a comms guy as you know, however this was a really thorough review for people who do, and are considering the Cardo setup. Good job man! ✌️

[@KODEGREY]

Thanks HTJ!! Its a good com system, but I figured I could save someone some aggravation over fussing with the quirks. Made the video a bit long, but worth it I think.

[@AdventureTomek]

Never used a comm before, maybe one day when I invest in a better helmet. Nice review

[@KODEGREY]

They are pretty helpful if you plan on going to places you don't know very well. I mean you can have a phone mount, but I prefer to hear it. Thanks Tomek!!

[@truckinbiker]

Sooo... enormous unit difference... gotcha.

[@KODEGREY]

Yes ..... enormous!! 😂😂

[@WaltInPA]

I have a Sena 50S and I don't think I could go back to not having one - especially with rider communication. Outside of talking to riding buddies, I don't use mine much. Hardly at all for music but I like the GPS navigation from time to time. One thing I wish these companies would do is open up the Mesh Networks so that Cardo and Sena could connect outside of the sketchy bluetooth connection.

[@KODEGREY]

I'm the same way with the music. Sometimes yes sometimes no, depends on the mood. I wish these companies would do the same thing!! But it's how they make money I guess!

[@BikesBeardsAndBrews]

try 'hey cardo volume up 1' or 'Hey Cardo volume up 2"

[@KODEGREY]

Ok. I'll give it a try!

[@potsykate]

Does it have VOX intercom for my pillion?

[@GlidingOnTwos]

I have a Sena 50s and don't really like it. So I don't use it much. I've heard nothing but good things about Cardo. Maybe time to switch back. 🤣

[@KODEGREY]

I'm liking it so far! And the one I have is basically an entry level unit. But since I mainly ride alone, I didn't want to spend a lot in their top tier stuff!

[@BikesBeardsAndBrews]

I am the Cardo whisperer lol

[@KODEGREY]

🤣🤣. It's from all of those years in I.T.

[@hachewie]

I don’t know if I want a comms unit. Mary-Anne talks way too much. 😉🤣

[@602North]

😂 I’m worried about that myself with Kathy

[@hachewie]

@@602North Hahahaha

[@MonkeyButtRides]

🤣🤣

[@KODEGREY]

Cardo has this great voice activated function...... ( Hey Cardo..Mute Audio ) 🤣🤣🤣

[@thehoelzels6316]

He said "ear holes" 😅

[@KODEGREY]

😂😂😂

[@truckinbiker]

You said unit. Hahaha

[@KODEGREY]

I can always count on you to catch the innuendos!! 😂.

[@truckinbiker]

@@KODEGREY it's what I'm here for

[@Johnrider1234]

I got mine a week ago.

[@KODEGREY]

That's awesome man!! I hope you are enjoying it!! And thanks for stopping by the channel man! Appreciate it!!