Mesh networks have been a Sena-and-Cardo club for years. But with the Fodsports FX7, Fodsports has opened the door wide enough for everyone else. Ten rider, self-healing Mesh, and dual Bluetooth 5.4 Qualcomm chips wrapped into a smartphone app. That's enough to get people who've looked at Mesh recently to take notice. If you're interested in seeing how it compares to other intercoms, take a look at our Intercom Comparison Table. Check current pricing on Amazon.
## Mesh Network Communication
The FX7 has three ways to operate in terms of communication. There is Mesh, Bluetooth, and Bluetooth + Mesh. When the FX7 operates in Mesh mode, it uses a self-healing topology to link up to ten riders. As a result, riders may lose their connection, but they'll be able to reconnect automatically to the group without needing to repair. Bluetooth mode is best suited for simple pairing and phone audio. The dual chip design allows Bluetooth and intercom audio to run at the same time. This way you can listen to music, use GPS, and continue talking to the rest of the group.
Audio Quality
Hi-Fi Stereo Speakers come stock with the FX7. Voices and music both come through clearly. While the speakers won't be anywhere near as good as those found on a Harman Kardon speaker set in a Sena 50S, for the price difference they sound really good. Heavy highway winds can cause issues at high speeds with even the best intercoms. However, at slower speeds, voices come through clean.
Noise Cancellation
Noise Cancellation is handled by three layers: ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation), CVC (Comfort Voice Clarity), and an Intelligent Microphone System. Based on buyer feedback, these features do a great job removing wind and engine noise from conversations. Reviewers were able to understand callers' voices clearly at city speeds. However, they began to become less intelligible at higher speeds due to the filtering dropping off relative to more complex algorithms used in premium units.
Smart Features & App Control
The smart app is the quiet killer feature. While a lot of inexpensive intercoms require you to remember sequence after sequence of buttons to adjust any setting, the app eliminates all of that. Using your smartphone you can create and manage intercom groups, adjust settings, and download new firmware without ever pressing a single button again. For anyone who has spent time fighting an intercom that only has buttons, this is reason enough to look at this product.
In addition to being smart, the FX7 also supports voice control, auto-answer for incoming calls, and FM Radio. Each of these items are standard fare. However, being able to put all of these items together on a unit capable of Mesh networking at this price point is truly amazing.
Durable Design & Long Battery Life
The FX7 meets the IP67 Standard. In essence that means it protects against dust and submergence. Units costing twice or three times as much meet the same standards. Additionally, the FX7 boasts one of the longest batteries available in the category. Under typical use it should last for multi-day trips without requiring daily charges.
While not quite as refined as some products in the high-end category, the overall durability of the FX7 is excellent for a product in this category. The mount kit contains both clamp and adhesive mounting hardware. Once mounted securely, the fit is solid.
It is helpful to know when to use each type of mode. Mesh is ideal for group rides where there are multiple riders on varying routes or speeds. Since the network will heal itself if any riders drop out of range during a ride, Mesh provides maximum flexibility. Use Bluetooth mode for simpler communications (i.e., one-on-one conversations, phone calls or running GPS and/or music). Since the FX7 has two BT5.4 chips it is possible to run either the intercom or phone/music simultaneously.
Individual riders may never use the Mesh aspect of the FX7 since solo riders don't typically participate in group rides. However, if you're looking for a premium Bluetooth headset for calls, music and/or GPS navigation, the FX7 still works amazingly well. Mesh simply waits in abeyance until you go on another group ride.
What Other Reviewers Have Said About Their Experience
The early buyers gave the FX7 four-point-two stars across more than sixty reviews. Most buyers said the Mesh worked as advertised and that they got tremendous bang for their buck compared to Sena and Cardo's own Mesh products. Buyers especially liked configuring their devices via the Fodsports app as opposed to learning button combinations from previous intercoms they'd purchased.
There are legitimate down sides. Some buyers have experienced brief moments of lost connections when operating near the farthest reaches of the Mesh range. Also while the FX7 does an adequate job of reducing wind and engine noise from conversations. It doesn't perform nearly as well as more expensive models at faster speeds. Some users have complained about bugs within the Fodsports app for specific phones. Overall most buyers thought they made a good decision purchasing a low cost Mesh enabled device.
Who Should Purchase This Intercom
You frequently ride with friends/groups and you want a self-healing Mesh network at prices comparable to 1/3rd that of a Sena 50S? Take a serious look at the Fodsports FX7. Riders that prefer riding alone or with just one other person won't need such complexity and can likely purchase a lower cost option (e.g.: LEXIN B4FM or entry level Fodsports model). Check out our Comparison Chart for additional choices.
FAQ
How many riders can connect in Mesh mode?
Up to 10 riders can connect simultaneously in Mesh mode. The network will heal itself should any riders temporarily lose their signal during operation.
How long does the battery last?
15 Hours, longer than most competitors and sufficient for multi day travel with average usage of intercom functions.
Is there an app?
Yes! The Fodsports app controls groups, settings, firmware updates from your mobile phone. And currently supported on both iOS and Android.
Is it waterproof?
Yes - rated IP67 for total protection from dust and immersion. Therefore rain/mud are not an issue.
Will it work with non-Fodsports intercoms?
Yes - via Bluetooth. Mesh only connects with other FX7 units. However Bluetooth can connect with other manufacturers' units.
How does it compare to the Sena 50S?
FX7 offers virtually identical Mesh connectivity at approximately 1/3rd the price. With compromises in audio quality, build quality, and noise cancellation at speed.
Does it include FM radio?
Yes. It has built-in FM radio tuner capabilities. And presets for easy selection.
How long does it take to fully charge?
Three hours using USB-C. Up to 15 hours talk time
For more options, check the more intercom reviews.
Read more about Fodsports intercoms at the official product page.