Let’s Talk About Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub
The Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub promises to bring a new level of convenience and flexibility to marine communication. Raymarine, a trusted name in marine electronics, aims to simplify multi-station VHF radio operation with this kit. This kit boasts a wireless handset, a passive speaker, and a wireless hub, designed for seamless integration into existing Ray90 systems.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with a decade of experience navigating both calm and turbulent waters, reliable communication is paramount. I needed a robust and adaptable communication system for my own boat, one that could handle diverse conditions and ensure clear communication from anywhere on deck. The promise of wireless freedom and enhanced audio quality piqued my interest, leading me to explore this Raymarine offering.
Upon unboxing, the kit impressed me with its professional packaging and seemingly robust components. The handset felt solid and well-built, with thoughtfully placed controls. The speaker, while passive, appeared capable of delivering clear audio. My initial thought was that Raymarine paid attention to the construction of the kit, with a feeling of durable materials being selected.
Compared to similar products, such as the Icom HM-195GB Commandmic IV Remote Hand Microphone or the Standard Horizon RAM4 Remote Access Microphone, the Raymarine system offers a key advantage: wireless operation. While wired solutions provide inherent reliability, the freedom to move about the boat without being tethered is a significant benefit. This wireless freedom ultimately swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The system looked promising, but the true test would be its performance on the water. I was excited to see if the Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub could deliver on its promise of seamless, reliable, and flexible communication.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub on my 36-foot sailboat during a week-long coastal cruise. The testing grounds ranged from calm harbor settings to open water with moderate chop and wind. My goal was to evaluate the system’s range, clarity, and reliability under various conditions.
The system performed admirably in calm conditions, providing clear communication up to a reasonable distance. I was able to move freely around the cockpit and even down below without losing connection. However, as the wind and waves picked up, the audio quality suffered slightly, requiring me to increase the volume.
The initial setup was relatively straightforward, thanks to Raymarine’s well-written manual. I did need to spend some time familiarizing myself with the handset’s controls, but the intuitive design helped with the learning curve. There was a brief moment of frustration when pairing the handset with the hub, but after a quick reboot, it connected seamlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub has proven to be a valuable addition to my boat. The system has consistently performed well, providing reliable communication in most situations. Minor hiccups aside, it has become a very beneficial communication device on the boat.
The handset has held up well to the rigors of marine life. Despite exposure to saltwater spray and the occasional bump, it shows no signs of wear and tear. The buttons remain responsive, and the screen is still clear and easy to read.
Maintaining the system is simple; I rinse the handset with fresh water after each trip and occasionally wipe down the speaker. No other maintenance has been required. Compared to my previous experiences with VHF radios, the Raymarine system offers a superior level of convenience and flexibility. It provides a notable upgrade from prior VHF radio experiences.
Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub
Specifications
The Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub includes several key components, each with specific specifications. The kit centers around wireless operation, ensuring seamless communication throughout the vessel. Raymarine carefully designs each element for marine environments.
- Wireless Handset: Operates on a 2.4 GHz wireless frequency, offers a clear LCD display, and features oversized keys for easy operation. It boasts a long battery life and is designed to be waterproof and ruggedized.
- Wireless Hub: Connects to the Raymarine Ray90 VHF radio and facilitates wireless communication with the handset. It supports up to two handsets and offers simple NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 networking capabilities.
- Passive Speaker: Delivers clear and crisp audio output, enhancing communication in noisy environments. This speaker requires external amplification via the Ray90 base station.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The wireless frequency ensures reliable communication without interference. The rugged design and waterproofing protect the handset from the harsh marine environment. The NMEA networking capabilities allow for seamless integration with other onboard electronics.
Performance & Functionality
The Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub performs its job effectively. It provides a reliable and convenient way to communicate from anywhere on the boat. The wireless range is sufficient for most vessels, and the audio quality is generally good.
One of the strengths of this product is its ease of use. The handset is intuitive to operate, and the wireless connectivity is seamless. However, the audio quality can be affected by wind and background noise, which is a notable weakness. Overall, the system meets and exceeds expectations for wireless marine communication.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub is excellent. The materials used are durable and feel premium. The handset is comfortable to hold and operate, even with wet hands.
The system is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The intuitive design and clear instructions make it easy to set up and use. It provides seamless connectivity to the Ray90 base station.
Durability & Maintenance
The Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub is built to last. The ruggedized handset and durable speaker can withstand the harsh marine environment. The system is easy to maintain and repair, with readily available replacement parts.
Proper maintenance includes rinsing the handset with fresh water after each use and periodically cleaning the speaker. It is important to protect the wireless hub from direct exposure to water and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this system should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub comes with everything you need for a basic installation. The kit includes the wireless handset, wireless hub, and passive speaker. Raymarine keeps the package simple and effective.
The system is compatible with a range of Raymarine accessories, including an optional active remote speaker for noisy environments. You can also expand the system with an additional RayMic handset, allowing for multi-station communication. These customization options provide added flexibility and functionality.
Pros and Cons of Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub
Pros
- Wireless Freedom: The wireless handset allows for unrestricted movement around the boat, providing ultimate convenience.
- Durable Construction: The ruggedized handset and durable speaker are built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
- Easy to Use: The intuitive design and clear instructions make the system easy to set up and operate.
- Clear Audio: The passive speaker delivers crisp and clear audio output, enhancing communication.
- Seamless Integration: The NMEA networking capabilities allow for seamless integration with other onboard electronics.
Cons
- Audio Quality: Audio quality can be affected by wind and background noise, especially in rough conditions.
- Price: The kit is more expensive than wired alternatives.
Who Should Buy Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub?
This kit is perfect for boaters who value convenience and flexibility. It is ideal for those who want to communicate from anywhere on their vessel without being tethered by wires. Pro anglers, recreational boaters, and cruising enthusiasts will benefit most from the Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub.
If you prioritize absolute reliability above all else and are on a tight budget, you might want to consider a wired alternative. The cost and occasional audio quality issues in extreme environments could be a deterrent for some users. A must-have accessory is the optional active remote speaker, especially for those who frequently operate in noisy conditions.
Conclusion on Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub
The Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub is a well-designed and functional system that offers a significant upgrade over traditional wired VHF radios. It provides a high level of convenience and flexibility. The ability to move freely around the boat while maintaining clear communication is a game-changer.
While the price is higher than wired alternatives, the value proposition is justified by the added convenience and functionality. This kit is a worthwhile investment for boaters who want the best possible communication experience. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient wireless VHF solution.
If you’re ready to experience the freedom of wireless marine communication, I encourage you to consider the Raymarine Ray90 Wireless Second Station Kit with Passive Speaker, Wireless Handset & Wireless Hub. It is a very beneficial upgrade to the boat.