Let’s Talk About Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn offers a sleek and integrated solution for boat owners needing a reliable signaling device without compromising aesthetics. Manufactured by Innovative Lighting, this horn is designed to be discreetly mounted, providing a clean and uncluttered look. It features solid-state electronics, low power consumption, and is intended for boats under 12 meters.
I needed a horn for my small fishing boat that wouldn’t be an eyesore. After dealing with bulky, externally mounted horns that were constantly getting in the way and corroding, I sought a hidden, more durable solution.
My first impression upon unboxing the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn was its compact and robust design. The plastic housing felt sturdy, and the included gasket promised a watertight seal. It felt significantly lighter and less cumbersome than my previous horn.
I considered the Fiamm Freeway Blaster Horn and the Wolo Bad Boy horn before settling on this one. The Fiamm felt too similar to what I already had and the Wolo was louder but larger and more power-hungry. I chose the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn for its compact size, low amperage draw, and hidden mounting capabilities.
Initial impressions were positive; I was excited about the potential for a clean, reliable, and unobtrusive horn solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn on my 18-foot center console fishing boat. The installation involved drilling the required 2.25-inch hole and wiring the horn into the boat’s existing 12V DC system. The process was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and included mounting gasket.
I tested the horn under various conditions, including calm seas, choppy waters, and light rain. The horn emitted a clear and audible blast, sufficient for signaling in the marina and nearshore environments. It performed flawlessly, even when splashed with saltwater.
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn was simple to operate; a basic on/off switch was all that was needed. There was no noticeable delay in activation.
Initially, I was concerned the sound would be muffled due to the hidden design, but the volume and clarity were surprisingly good.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of corrosion or degradation despite frequent exposure to saltwater.
The horn has proven to be durable, with no cracking or fading of the plastic housing. The sound quality remains consistent.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe down to remove salt residue. It is easy to access if needed.
Compared to my previous externally mounted horn, the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn has far exceeded expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and aesthetics. It has completely solved the problems I faced with my old horn.
Breaking Down the Features of Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn
Specifications
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn is designed for use with 12 or 24V DC systems, offering compatibility with a wide range of marine vessels. It’s specifically intended for boats under 12 meters (39.4 feet). This ensures it meets legal requirements for smaller boats.
The horn utilizes “SETS” horn technology, a solid-state electronic design, resulting in low power consumption of less than half an amp. This is a significant advantage, preserving battery life during extended use. The installation requires a 2.25″ mounting hole, a fairly standard size making retrofitting easier.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the horn’s functionality, efficiency, and ease of integration into a boat’s electrical system. The low power draw is crucial for smaller boats with limited battery capacity, while the “SETS” technology contributes to its reliability and longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn performs its primary job of signaling remarkably well. The sound output is clear and audible within the intended range for boats under 12 meters.
Its strengths lie in its reliable operation, low power consumption, and unobtrusive design. A minor weakness could be the sound level might not be adequate for extremely noisy environments or larger vessels requiring longer-range signaling.
It definitely meets expectations, providing a dependable and aesthetically pleasing horn solution for smaller boats.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn is solid, with a durable plastic housing and a well-designed mounting system. The weight is minimal.
The horn is extremely user-friendly, requiring no special skills or training to install and operate. The hidden mounting design minimizes visual clutter, contributing to the boat’s overall aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn is built to last in the harsh marine environment. The solid-state electronics and water evacuation drainage system are designed to resist corrosion and water damage.
Maintenance is minimal, consisting primarily of occasional cleaning to remove salt residue. It is designed to be easily accessible if repairs or replacement are ever needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn comes with a mounting gasket to ensure a watertight seal. The horn is available in black, white and cream colors, allowing for some aesthetic customization.
While there are no other readily available accessories, its standard 12/24V compatibility means it can be paired with any standard marine-grade switch or wiring harness.
Pros and Cons of Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn
Pros
- Discreet, hidden design: Maintains a clean and uncluttered look on your boat.
- Low power consumption: Draws less than half an amp, preserving battery life.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Easy installation: Requires only a 2.25″ mounting hole and basic wiring.
- Reliable operation: Solid-state electronics ensure consistent performance.
Cons
- Sound level may not be sufficient for very large vessels or noisy environments.
- Limited customization options beyond color choice.
Who Should Buy Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn?
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn is perfect for owners of small to mid-sized boats (under 39.4 feet) who value a clean aesthetic and reliable performance. It’s ideal for recreational boaters, fishermen, and sailors seeking an unobtrusive horn solution.
This product might not be suitable for operators of large commercial vessels or those who require extremely loud signaling devices for long-range communication. It may also not be the best choice for someone looking for extensive customization options.
A must-have is a marine-grade on/off switch.
Conclusion on Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn
The Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and aesthetics. Its hidden design and low power consumption make it an excellent choice for boat owners seeking a reliable signaling device without sacrificing visual appeal.
At a price of $44.89, the value proposition is excellent, especially considering its solid-state construction and expected lifespan. The price is justified.
I would definitely recommend the Innovative Lighting Marine Hidden Horn to any boat owner looking for a discreet, reliable, and efficient horn solution. Upgrade your boat today and experience the peace of mind that comes with a dependable signaling device!