TLDR Review: Cardo PACKTALK Edge Intercom
Pros
- •Voice clarity during calls and intercom is excellent, even at high speeds, with people on the other end often unaware the rider is on a motorcycle.
- •Automatic Bluetooth pairing works well once initially set up, connecting seamlessly to phones and companion devices each time the unit is turned on.
- •Excellent noise cancellation ensures clear communication, even in loud environments with traffic and wind noise.
- •Sound quality is outstanding for voice, music, and GPS navigation, with easy volume control and microphone muting music when calls or intercom are active.
- •Battery life supports long rides, offering up to 12 hours of use with fast charging and improved durability in the charging port.
- •The headset is comfortable to wear, with smaller speakers that fit well inside helmets without discomfort.
- •Installation is straightforward, with a secure magnetic air mount and seldhesive plate that hold firmly in place.
- •Voice controls enable handree operation for music, calls, and volume adjustments, enhancing rider safety by reducing manual distractions.
- •Communication range effectively reaches about half a mile, maintaining stable connections even at highway speeds.
- •The system supports simultaneous music streaming and intercom conversations, adding convenience not found in earlier models.
Cons
- •Bluetooth pairing can be inconsistent, sometimes flawless and sometimes requiring resets and rairing due to 'Rider busy/unavailable' errors.
- •The setup process is complicated and poorly documented, with contradictory instructions that can frustrate users trying to get everything running smoothly.
- •The companion app is underwhelming, lacking polish and failing to adjust audio levels for music, intercom, phone, and GPS independently, forcing uniform volume for all sources.
- •Voice activation ('Hey Cardo') works inconsistently, detracting from the convenience of handree commands.
- •Occasional intercom cuuts happen despite solid performance overall, particularly between driver and passenger units.
- •Other riders may need to speak louder than usual during music playback for best clarity, which can be inconvenient.
- •The system does not support Spotify integration within the app, which some users may find limiting for music control.
- •Cannot pair properly with Harley Boom Box, and if the phone is connected to Boom Box, music gets muted unexpectedly.
- •Turning off the units often necessitates repeating the complex setup process on restart, adding annoyance during rides.
Bottom Line
If you want crystal-clear communication, excellent noise cancellation, and a solid Bluetooth intercom system that can keep up with high-speed riding and long trips, the Cardo PACKTALK Edge Dual Pack is a top-tier choice with well-rounded features and reliable performance once you get past the finicky setup. However, if you dislike complex pairing or rely heavily on smartphone app controls or Spotify integration, this product might test your patience. For riders who prioritize seamless, straightforward connection and slightly better app experience, looking into alternative communication systems with simpler interfaces could be worth considering — but for serious enthusiasts, the PACKTALK Edge remains one of the best on the market.
How we researched this
About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from 6 retailers to give you the short version.
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