Sena SMH5 Bluetooth Communicator Review at RevZilla.com

Sena SMH-5 Bluetooth Communicator Review
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Brand new for this year, the SMH5 is essentially the baby brother to the more feature-rich SMH10. Utilizing Bluetooth v3.0, the SMH-5 allows you to call hands-free on your Bluetooth mobile phone, listen to music or your GPS navigation wirelessly, and have two-way intercom conversations in full duplex with a passenger or another motorcycle rider. We consider the Sena SMH5 to be a great choice for a rider on a budget.

[@mattnearytrieshard]

I purchased the sena smh-5 and love it. Used it through wind and rain on the highway and it works great. Easily pairs with my android phone and was able to listen to music/audio books/ make phone calls. Once used for ~7 hours straight driving back from St. Louis to Milwaukee to talk to my wife. Made the trip go very quickly! For the price vs performance this is a must buy!

[@phitch86]

This product fit my needs perfectly. For a few years I had been holding out on a Bluetooth helmet set due to pricing. Finally a basic, reasonably priced unit. I bought a pair and headed out for a week through the Rockies and Utah canyons. Perfect and inexpensive for rider-to-passenger, and good enough for rider-to-rider. Loses connection pretty quickly in mountains or with some distance, but you can always have it call your riding buddy!

[@RevZilla]

The button is contextual, so it is used for several things. Volume up/down is the default. You can also press the jog dial in as a button for separate commands. Basically, this is just loads better than hunting for a volume down button when your mother-in-law calls you in the middle of a ride and its super loud and you are trying to bank into a turn at 70 mph. Don't ask me how I know this. -CK

[@jeepeagle7100]

Thanks to Anthony's review, I bought the Sena SMH5. As he said, it's great for the money. It paired seamlessly with my iPhone 4, and easily installed into my old Scorpion helmet, and transferred to my new AGV K4 Evo helmet in less than 10 minutes. It's easy to use, and sounds decent. Definitely a great entry level system.

[@joeweck7230]

Installation and setup was simple and the unit is easy to use. For the price the dual pack was a no-brainer. First I was against a boom but on our Shoei Qwest helmets it can be pushed out of the way, without noticing it anymore. My wife and I are now able to chat during our trips, what makes us feel much more connected. So far our longest day trip was 512 miles through the Texas Hill Country. Without the SMH-5 unit I believe we both would not have driven all day long.

[@shavkatsi12]

Bought SENA SMH-5 from Revzilla, first unit arrived DOA, Revzilla exchanged it and second one works without any issues. Love it! Thank you RevzaillaTV for detailed video review and for excellent customer service!

[@RevZilla]

Thanks for the review. I have the Sena SMH10 and love it. I've never used it for a 7-hour phone call, but am definitely happy with its performance. ~Ali

[@dardobartoli]

Clearly my wife hasn't phoned you then...

[@RevZilla]

A dual pack does mean 2 complete units for 2 people to use at the same time. If you only need one unit, but have multiple helmets, you can purchase the mounting kit separately for a reasonable price. ~Ali

[@RevZilla]

I will always recommend a full face over an open face for protection and comfort while riding. If you still want to use an open face helmet, I suggest the Sena SPH10H for half helmets. ~Ali

[@asdfjkl4809]

the mounting bracket that secures the unit to the helmet with 2 screws is lightweight and should be made of metal. already replaced it, covered by manufacturer warranty it's held on by duct tape right now, no other issues excellent product

[@mhiscott4925]

I mainly use mine for listening to music on my phone and its louder than ear buds. The sound quality and volume blew me away tbh. I have a speed and strength helmet so its not exactly quiet and I don't even need to turn the volume all the way up. Really is the best bang for buck system. If you want it for communicating with another rider it will stay connected to them up to about 1/8 mile and start getting fuzzy at 1/4 mile. Then in and out at 1/2 mile and completely gone after that. But if you get disconnected and then get close again it will automatically reconnect. Great system. No you won't be able to connect to more than one other person, however you can connect to another sena and your phone at the same time so you can talk to another sena user and if a call comes in just hit the button.

[@RevZilla]

Passenger and Rider can both pair to their own music device and still communicate. They cannot listen to the same iPod, MP3 or other Bluetooth music device, however. ~Ali

[@RevZilla]

While the U-Clear is an excellent unit for what it is, I'd choose the Sena SMH-5 with speaker upgrade for the best sound quality. The boomless mic on the U-Clear works clearly as advertised, but does not surpass the audio quality and mic quality of competing boom mics from Sena or Cardo in my opinion.

[@RevZilla]

No, No, and Yes, in that order. Technically you can stream a 3-way call to the headset, but there would be no way to initiate the call without getting your phone out. Mounting on the right side would position the microphone in the wrong direction. Replacement mics are available in both boom and wired versions. -CK

[@RevZilla]

There really is only one place for those stickers to go. If you don't have the pockets or a place in the lining, you'll either have to deal with cramming your ears up against them or think about a new helmet! -CK P.S. If your helmet is over 5 years old, the EPS liner has begun to break down and you shoulder consider a new lid anyway.

[@hkc2003]

If you want to see a comparison to the '10' this is for you. If you are a novice to these kind of devices (as I am) it's a waste. Will it set up with a modular helmet? What does the 'jog dial' actually do? Can I ask Siri to contact for a call? If so how? I ride my bike to meetings for my work which takes me off the grid for around an hour and a half. I would like to take phone calls if necessary...after watching this I don't have a clue as to what it can do.

[@RevZilla]

hkc2003 To answer your questions, yes it would work with a modular (provided you use the included boom microphone). The jog dial controls volume. I've been able to use Siri, but the quality isn't great and she usually doesn't understand what I'm saying. On most Bluetooth headsets there will be a button combination that activates your phone's voice commands. It can vary phone to phone, but the button sequence will be included in the directions. Our videos are more overviews than product walk-throughs, but most everyone you would talk to on the phone has used Sena headsets before (I have an SMH10R). Contact a Geek at 877-792-9455 or [e-mail]. -Kraus-e

[@RevZilla]

Pairing with four riders means that you will be switching between people to have conversations. One-to-one conversations allow you to hear both parties simultaneously. -CK

[@RevZilla]

Unfortunately, this can only pair with other Sena BT communicators. Since most of these BT units use radio frequency that is tuned to a specific channel, they are not compatible with another manufacturers product. ~Ali

[@TheAK47s]

Few questions for you guys about this. 1. Can it handle like 3 way phone calls over bluetooth? 2. can you mount it on the right side of your helmet? 3. can you buy wired mics for it? or is it only boom mics?

[@kyeegray]

You say that it can only conference one-to-one, but pair with up to four riders.... What does that mean? Can three other people hear you? You can only hear one other person?

[@Gimpdiggity]

Great review, you sold me. I needed a way to listen to turn by turn navigation, but was sick of the ear buds and the cord. I may use it to listen to some music, probably not interested in making or taking calls, but mainly for turn by turn. Seems like this is just the device for me!!

[@853massey]

Hi jasonk86 yes it does. Just bought mine a week ago and works great with iPhone's Siri.

[@RevZilla]

It's on the list!

[@DarrelMathis]

I bought the SMH5 instead of the SMH10 because I mostly do driver to passenger communications. My one complaint is after only about 6 uses the wiring harness will not stay connected.

[@RevZilla]

I would suggest this Sena SMH5 or the new Cardo Q1 Teamset. ~Ali

[@ReyDiaz]

How does it work with an open helmet? with the wind, do you lose your voice? communication would be efficient

[@th3_p4nda71]

It would be great if you guys would show how to install these. There's 0 instructions just 4 pictures that dont really tell you to much of anything if it's your first time setting one up.

[@ridzwan135]

Hello, if I want to use my iphone for gps and an android tablet for music, will I be able to connect these 2 simultaneously with the smh5? I really want to know before deciding to buy them. Anyway great reviews from revzilla.. Always look out for you guys for opinions..

[@branimirkovacic5075]

Can you and your passenger talk with each other while its connected to your phone and music is playing ?

[@teodorch85]

Hi! Can you please check if both driver-passenger can listen to bluetooth music, like from a smartphone, while talking to each other? Thanks!

[@paulk1309]

Usual great video from these boys.

[@kevinb.3528]

I have the smh5, I am adding the SR10 with a Midland cb 75-822, mainly for CB chatter in our large group rides. Will the SMH5 be adequate enough for the CB back n forth? I can also pair with my Indian Roadmaster ride command.

[@leonardoan6623]

hmm, what does it mean in dual pack? Does it mean it has 2 bluetooth system, 2pair headset and 2 mount devices?... Sorry, my english not so good

[@3248934]

So if just want something to talk to my passenger, don't need the gps connectivity or the bluetooth stuff, what would you recommend? Like a two way intercom that can be installed on full face helmets. Thanks

[@adg200702]

hey i wanna get the smh 5 but im getting an avg balde helmet. since its opened face would this still be a good option or would it be better to consider a full faced helmet

[@azka9075]

its so weird to not hear him rush through the intro speech

[@yairidy90]

I think I have my choice narrowed down to the SMH5-FM (with the speaker upgrade) and the Uclear HCB100. This would be strictly passenger to rider and music (perhaps a phone call here and there but not often. Fidelity and being able to hear my passenger at speed is the primary concern (Had a Tork Ridemate and it didn't cut it either area). What would you recommend? Little skeptical about the Boomless mic of the Uclear, although I've read great reviews.

[@ALexpWTFISTHAT]

will the SMH5 module be able to fit onto the AGV Numo Evo? I was looking at my Numo and noticed the only clear area on the side of my helmet was the area just rear of where the modular part comes down and forward of the low pressure air vent. Would that space be able to fit the SMH5?

[@RevZilla]

ALexpWTFISTHAT Yes, it will fit. -Hi-Viz Brian

[@ALexpWTFISTHAT]

RevZilla Thanks guys! =)

[@golf1diesel]

Hi. But late but do you know if sena smh5 will fit a HJC FG15 helmet? Thanks

[@85Wedge]

Any chance of doing a new review of the SMH10 now it has been updated to bluetooth 3.0 and now has full 4 way conferencing? If you have the bluetooth 2.1+ model it's just a software update to the new model. Cheers!

[@MusicFed]

hi there. I was wondering how to install the speakers in a helmet that doesn't have "pockets" for them, or removable liners on the sides, like most modern ones instead do. it's a 5 yrs old modular Caberg. thanks ..love your reviews guys! fed

[@timwright1995]

Can this system pair with other communicators besides sena?

[@LIGHTWARRIOR-888]

With how many people can you talk (at the same time)?

[@RevZilla]

Just you and another rider, so 2 including you. -DrewZilla

[@LIGHTWARRIOR-888]

@@RevZilla Thank you!

[@yairidy90]

Thank you! Place my order with you today!

[@markbordignon8704]

what would you consider to be the best overall and easy to use rider to rider mp3 and Bluetooth handsfree unit to buy? ive had a few and I find none of them are loud enough I admit they have been cheaper end no name brands but now I'm willing to spend good money on a top unit. look for a duo pack for me and my cuz

[@RevZilla]

In my opinion, the Sena SMH10R Dual Pack is the best for combining price, ease of use, and quality. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh10r-bluetooth-headset-dual-pack

[@sangr]

Hey guys, Great breakdown :) I'm between the sena smh5 and the sena 3s since right now I can get either for the same price. The way I see it, the pros for the smh5 is that it has more features than the 3s and can connect to up to 4 other riders which I think it's nice. I can also see that it has universal connection which means that my riding buddies don't need to have the same brand. On the other hand I like how low profile the 3s is and how better hidden it is inside the helmet. Main use will be to talk to my passanger and listen to some music but might occasionally need to communicate with another rider. So which one would you recommend I buy? PS. My helmet will (most probably) be the schuberth C3 and this is my first intercom system.

[@sangr]

Also how is the sound quality on both of those units? I'm interested in both music and talk. Thanks again :)

[@RevZilla]

+sangr I'd skip the 3S and go for the SMH5. If you can afford it, I would recommend you get the SMH10R, as it's low-profile, offers more range than the 3 and 5, and allows for group intercom with 3 other people. With the SMH5, you have to toggle between people, which is inconvenient. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh10r-bluetooth-headset

[@sangr]

+RevZilla Thanks for your reply :) The smh10 is double the price of the 5 (where I live) so I think I'll stick to the 5 for now and plan the 10 for a future upgrade

[@jasonk86]

I'm not sure if anyone has tried this yet, but does this work well with the Apple iPhone's Siri?

[@Doodlez4]

Really nice review, I'm tossed between the 5 and the 10. Anthony, you need to lay off the caffeine a little! :)

[@garrycane1170]

Hes a gabler.

[@scin3759]

Sounds like you want to sell the "10".

[@vincentculletto39]

awesome review guys Loved it. I actually just got my SMH 5. but mine came with what I call a penny mic. as well as a boom. mic. is this new packing for 2017

[@RevZilla]

Yes, the SMH5 is now available with both microphones in the box. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh5-bluetooth-headset-universal-mic

[@Hoggdoc1946]

I'm curious, most of the speakers that come with this type of unit are less than HiFi. I have a pair of high end J&M speakers from a previous system, do you think these small units have enough audio power to drive these bigger speakers?

[@Raptorx007]

Hello friends. I would love some help with headsets for music listening mainly. What is out there that lets ambient sound in while listening to music. I have no idea where to look, but im considering the bose soundsport like headphones, but is there something out there that is just awesome for listening to music and enjoying the ride without to mutch noise canceling?

[@RevZilla]

The Bluetooth communicators we carry do not have active noise canceling, as that can be unsafe for riding. You still need to be able to hear other vehicles. For basic music listening, look at the Sena 3S. For a bit more functionality, look at the Sena 10R. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-3s-w-bluetooth-headset-wired-microphone *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-10r-low-profile-motorcycle-bluetooth-headset

[@tuwhelzreally741]

What happen to my man???

[@MrRandawg1]

Just got the SMH5-FM. Unless I'm doing some thing wrong. The Jog changes stations, only one channel at a time. Takes forever to get to a channel down the dial a bit. Frustrating.

[@RevZilla]

Randy Nielsen Since there isn't a readout to tell you what station you're on, Sena designed the "Seek" function to seek one station at a time. You may want to consider setting your presets, then per the instructions, using the phone button to change between your preset stations. This is faster than the general seek function. You can do this manually or using the "Scan and Save" function. -DrewZilla

[@MrGiorgi46]

@@RevZilla Does SMH5 have FM Radio?

[@Vic-ng8if]

Great vid. Thanks

[@AdmirWudisban]

Hi guys...one short question..can this system pair with my Garmin Montana 650t navi on my ATV ? Thanks, Admir

[@RevZilla]

No, you cannot pair any Bluetooth communicators to the Garmin Montana unfortunately. Only the Garmin Zumo series of GPS can pair to a Bluetooth communicator. -DrewZilla

[@ronygilot5483]

can you listen to GPS (Waze) and music at the same time?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, the audio functions the same as if just using your phone by itself. If you're listening to music while using Waze, the directions should briefly interrupt the music. -DrewZilla *bit.ly/SenaSMH5

[@theNoiseInYourEars]

hello, is the smh5 full duplex, when 1 to 1 communication?

[@RevZilla]

+Pavlo Perevoznyk Yes, the SMH5 has full duplex intercom. -DrewZilla

[@joesena913]

It's Sena not cena

[@karterbessey7956]

is there a way to set the sena to push to talk?

[@RevZilla]

You cannot set it to Push To Talk in the traditional sense (where you talk while holding the intercom button down). Instead, you click the intercom button (the jog dial) once to open the intercom then once again to end the conversation. -DrewZilla

[@karterbessey7956]

thank you! also thank you for the reply!

[@lokgamers]

is this good for riding out with 1 other rider?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, it's even good for riding with up to 3 other riders. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh5-bluetooth-headset-universal-mic

[@lokgamers]

ok good thanks for your help

[@holmandl850]

Not sure I understand your question

[@RevZilla]

When you asked, "How are the Sena at 70 MPH", I assumed you were asking how well Sena systems hold up, volume- and clarity-wise, at 70 MPH. Is that correct? If so, how well does your helmet seal out road noise around 70 MPH? Would you say it's pretty loud inside your helmet at 70 MPH or it's quiet? -Hi-Viz Brian

[@pasinenonen9446]

Does it fit to shark raw helmet?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, though you'll want to use the Sena's included adhesive mount and mount the communicator on the helmet shell, not the round cap that covers the goggle strap. -DrewZilla

[@andrimarchian]

Can it be pair with Cardo Packtalk Bold?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, but it won't have all the same features of the PackTalk. If you need an affordable communicator for a passenger, then yes, you can use this with a PackTalk. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh5-bluetooth-headset-universal-mic

[@andrimarchian]

Thanks, it's very helpful

[@RevZilla]

You're welcome!

[@holmandl850]

how are the Sena at 70 MPH

[@RevZilla]

Good question, Dwayne Holman. How loud is your helmet at 70 mph? -Hi-Viz Brian

[@shd2937]

will it fit SHOEI NXR?

[@RevZilla]

Yes, it will easily fit the Shoei NXR (RF-1200). -DrewZilla

[@iwillhackyouwithbonzibuddy6510]

can you talk to 3 people in a group

[@RevZilla]

No, you can only talk to others one at a time. Instead, I recommend stepping up to the SMH10 or SMH10R for group intercom. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh-10-bluetooth-stereo-headset *www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sena-smh10r-bluetooth-headset

[@jeffdizon6178]

IWillHackYouWithBonziBuddy jd

[@19boykin]

I cant unplug the wires from the unit

[@RevZilla]

+Blake Boykin Are you squeezing the sides of the locking-type connector before attempting to unplug it? -DrewZilla

[@19boykin]

Yeah I've tried squeezing and not squeezing it won't budge

[@19boykin]

+RevZilla there's also a lot of static whenever I open an app on my phone while paired with the smh5. Think i might have a defective unit.

[@RevZilla]

+Blake Boykin Ok, if you purchased from us, you can give us a call at 877-792-9455. You can also contact Sena directly. -DrewZilla