VHF Cockpit Control

[PeterGR]

So I have fixed Cobra VHF MR F57 below in the cabin.
It is very inconvenient to listen to and operate while underway sailing from the cockpit.
I have kept a VHF handheld accessible in the cockpit but it is absolutely a 'workaround'.

Plan B is installing an external speaker in the cockpit.
But I have seen 'command mics' or 'remote controls' VHF extensions, I am wondering if anyone has advise on this + if compatible with my fixed radio below deck.
I would imagine fitting an electric gland fitting near the companionway to the fixed radio in the cabin and the cockpit side a 'remote control' where I could more easily listen and respond to VHF.

I could continue with a handheld in the cockpit but having to charge, manage and not get the full range of the fixed radio I believe is avoidable.
We operate busy club and port activities so the ability to reply to VHF from the cockpit would be of great benefit rather settle with just a cockpit speaker.

Any thoughts?

TIA

 

[Kwik Decision]

I don't think Cobra make a command mic, and therefore if you wanted to go down this route, you'd need to change your main set (I'd be very surprised if a different brand command mic would work).

Personally I think having a command mic in the cockpit is an excellent idea - for safety reasons if nothing else. If you're sailing 2 up and one of you goes over board, the other can send a Mayday, and talk to the coastguard while remaining on deck, keeping their eye on you.

We have a Standard Horizon main radio, with one of their command mics in the cockpit. This has a DSC mayday button, as well as the ability to change channel etc. You can even set the volume to different levels inside and out. The command mic comes with a cable which plugs into the back of the main VHF, and then goes to a socket mounted in the cockpit. You can easily remove the command mic, to avoid it being nicked, and it takes a matter of seconds to plug it in before going sailing. All works very well, and is recommended.

 

[Malish]

I too have a SH command mike - it is fantastic, one of the best upgrades I have undertaken - all the functionality of the set below deck and the ability to independently control audio volume without leaving the helm. A speaker on its own is a very poor alternative imho

 

[MoodySabre]

Cobra don't seem to sell a command mike like Standard Horizon and others do. Cobra is a budget set but it is waterproof so could be installed in the cockpit.

 

[pvb]

We operate busy club and port activities so the ability to reply to VHF from the cockpit would be of great benefit rather settle with just a cockpit speaker.

The Cobra MRF57 can't be connected to a command mic.

Do you actually need the longer range of the fixed set in normal use? If not, a decent handheld will be as useful, especially if you go for a DSC handheld. My Standard Horizon handheld has a long-lasting battery and recharges easily overnight in its 12v cradle.

 

[rogerthebodger]

I to have a SH command mike in my cockpit but also have an old HH DSC VHF that I can use either away from the boat and/or cockpit.

 

[PaulRainbow]

The Cobra MRF57 can't be connected to a command mic.

Do you actually need the longer range of the fixed set in normal use? If not, a decent handheld will be as useful, especially if you go for a DSC handheld. My Standard Horizon handheld has a long-lasting battery and recharges easily overnight in its 12v cradle.

If i have called a Mayday and he's 7 miles away, i'd rather he had a fixed set at hand so he can hear me

 

[pvb]

If i have called a Mayday and he's 7 miles away, i'd rather he had a fixed set at hand so he can hear me

Of course, and there's no reason why he can't fit an external speaker in the cockpit, so he'd hear you. But he mentioned "busy club and port activities" so I'd assumed he wasn't travelling far in normal day-to-day use. If that's the case, a decent handheld in the cockpit is invaluable.

 

[[70521]]

If i have called a Mayday and he's 7 miles away, i'd rather he had a fixed set at hand so he can hear me

He might be 3 hours way though!

 

[richardbrennan]

I fitted a command mike to my Icom VHF many years ago. I would agree with post # 3, it's a great addition from both a convenience and safety point of view.

 

[PeterGR]

Thanks for the quick feedback lads.
Stupid Cobra!

OK so looking towards an external w/p speaker for the cockpit then.
Any decent options that I can flush mount; preferably with a simple AUX I can just plug into the back of the fixed unit rather than playing with left/ right cables and amps etc.

 

[pvb]

OK so looking towards an external w/p speaker for the cockpit then.
Any decent options that I can flush mount; preferably with a simple AUX I can just plug into the back of the fixed unit rather than playing with left/ right cables and amps etc.

Your radio doesn't have a socket, you'll have to connect a speaker onto the wires coming out of the back of the radio.

 

[FlyingGoose]

Pvb is correct , I bought two marine speakers and connected via speaker wire and connected to appropriate cables from the back
Most speakers come in twos but a little search you will find one. Check you manual for the correct wires.
I put one in the main cabin beside the radio , this helps with increased volume even heard outside in the cockp8t and a outside speaker,
I run with an independent handheld, but I never sail alone.

 

[Boathook]

Ive got an icom vhf with a command mic at the helm. It does everything the main unit does. A very good investment as far as I'm concerned.