Summary
The new SENA 20S EVO is the next version of SENA's top of the line communicators. The EVO version is a nice upgrade to the original 20s in both range and performance. You can pair it to any bluetooth device such as other brand headsets, GPS, radar detectors, music players, smart phones, etc.
Mounting and Installation
The installation was standard to SENA. You have tons of options to choose from. You can use the boom mic or a stick on mic, you can use the wired speakers or set it up for your favorite ear buds. You can use an adhesive mount or do as I did with the helmet clamp. Some helmets may have difficulty using the clamp because of their shape and the adhesive mount is an easy answer to that.
The speakers will vary on helmets as well, but I have never owned a helmet I couldn't get them installed in. I use my SENA on the following helmets personally: Shoei X-14 (did require some light modification on the speaker cutouts), Shoei X-11, Arai XD-4, Fly Carbon F2, Fox V1, and Shoei Qwest.
SENA always includes all the accessories with their headsets and that makes for an easy and flexible installation. Personally, I appreciate that.
Before using the headset you need to go online and download the latest firmware. The included USB cable and a computer will be needed. Download the software HERE and follow the instructions. SENA has a great track record of upgrading and tweaking their headsets. Its one of the few products you can buy that actually gets better while you own it.
Standout Features
- Helmet Clamp - The 20S EVO is compatible with the previous 20S model so I didn't have to invest in new clamps for all my helmets. I also like the fact that the contacts on the headset are flush. This prevents accidentally bending pins like I experienced with the SENA SMH10 headset. You also get a positive click when it is fully seated. Be sure you push it down until you feel it click to avoid loss or problems.
- Sharkfin Antenna - The original 20S headset had an antenna that you had to put up and down. It was a bit fragile and difficult to operate with a gloved hand. If you left it down it did affect range. The new 20S EVO has a sharkfin style stationary antenna. The new antenna is more robust and the effective range of the 20S EVO is noticeably better than the previous 20s version.
- Noise Cancellation - I don't know what kind of black magic SENA builds into their headsets, but they always impress with their noise cancellation. I have taken calls while riding interstate speeds and people can't even tell I'm on a motorcycle. That's amazing to me.
- Phone App - The phone app for configuring your headset is extremely useful. With my older SMH10 I could never remember how to make changes and if I was out on a ride I would just have to wait until I got home. With the newer models like the 20S EVO you can make all those changes on the fly with the phone app.
- Battery Life - SENA specs talk time at 13 hours. I have experienced longer times that that. The battery life is excellent on the 20S EVO.
Configuration Suggestions
- Audio Multitasking - I use this so I can listen to my music and be involved in an intercom session at the same time.
- Audio Boost - This will allow you to listen at a higher volume. I wear ear plugs so I typically have it turned up pretty high.
- Motion Sensor Sensitivity - Set this setting to "Low". If its too sensitive the voice command can be kicked off too easily and it will drive you crazy. Once I set this to low it works as expected.
- Advanced Noise Control - This turns on that exceptional SENA noise control and make your conversations clear.
Experience
The use experience on the SENA 20S EVO is awesome. Riding with friends and being able to talk is not only convenient, it increases safety, and makes the ride more fun. I can't tell you how many times my friends and I have been laughing so hard we had tears in our eyes.
Using the controls is simple and easy to do even in winter riding gloves. Its low profile on your helmet so you don't notice any excessive weight and it doesn't interfere with turning your head.
The music quality is quite good, but if you are trying to be an audiophile with perfect sound reproduction you will probably not be satisfied. This won't be your new reference set of speakers for your home stereo system, but for motorcycle riding they are excellent.
Summary
If you are in the market for a bluetooth helmet communicator you need to look into the SENA 20S EVO headset. This is the best headset I have used so far. Combine that with the fact that all the needed accessories come in the box, you can pair to any headset, and you can upgrade it as new features come out and you have a value packed piece of gear. The Sena 20s EVO list price is $299 for a single and $549 for a dual pack. Its an investment that's worth the price.
