10 best speakers for ham radios

Speakers for ham radios, also known as ham radio speakers or external speakers, are a crucial component of a ham radio station setup. These speakers are designed to provide clear and audible sound output from ham radio transceivers and receivers. Here's what you need to know about speakers for ham radios:

  1. Audio Clarity: Ham radio speakers are engineered to deliver high-quality audio with clear and distinct sound reproduction. This is vital for effective communication, especially during weak signal conditions or when dealing with noisy RF environments.

  2. Power Handling: Speakers for ham radios are designed to handle different power levels. The power rating of a speaker should match or exceed the maximum power output of your transceiver to prevent distortion and damage to the speaker.

  3. Impedance: Ham radio speakers typically have an impedance rating, often 8 ohms, which should match the output impedance of your radio. Matching impedance ensures efficient power transfer and optimal audio quality.

  4. Size and Form Factor: These speakers come in various sizes and form factors to suit different ham radio setups. Portable and compact speakers are suitable for mobile and field operations, while larger desktop speakers are ideal for fixed station installations.

  5. Mounting Options: Many ham radio speakers offer versatile mounting options, including brackets, swivel mounts, and tilting mechanisms. This flexibility allows you to position the speaker for optimal sound delivery.

  6. Noise Filtering: Some ham radio speakers come equipped with noise filtering features to reduce interference and background noise, enhancing the clarity of received signals. This can be especially beneficial for weak signal reception.

  7. Water Resistance: In outdoor and field use, it's advantageous to have a ham radio speaker with some level of water resistance or weatherproofing to protect it from the elements.

  8. Audio Input Connections: These speakers typically feature input connections compatible with the audio output of ham radio transceivers, commonly using 3.5mm or 1/4-inch audio jacks.

  9. Volume Control: Some ham radio speakers include a built-in volume control knob, allowing you to adjust the audio output without having to make adjustments on the transceiver.

  10. External Speaker Outputs: Most ham radio transceivers have an external speaker output jack to connect an external speaker. Ensure that the speaker you choose is compatible with this output.

  11. Brand and Model Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the speaker with your specific ham radio brand and model, as connectors and impedance requirements can vary.

  12. Enhanced Audio Features: Some high-end ham radio speakers may come with additional audio enhancement features like DSP (Digital Signal Processing) for noise reduction and audio shaping.

In conclusion, speakers for ham radios play a vital role in ensuring clear and audible communication for ham radio operators. When selecting a speaker, consider factors such as audio clarity, power handling, impedance matching, size, mounting options, and any additional features that may enhance your ham radio experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best speakers for ham radios on the market
  

VECTORCOM TRD550 Rectangular 3.5mm Plug 5W External Speaker/CB Speaker for Ham Radio, CB and Scanners

VECTORCOM

Based on 548 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Impedance: 8Ohm Power handing: 5W max Speaker:3 inch Cord Length: 6ft with 3. 5mm jack plug Size: 140mm(w)*80mm(h)*60mm(d) Weight: 270 g

  • 3.5mm plug
  • Speaker:3 inch
  • Impedance: 8Ohm
  • Power handing: 5W
  • for Mobile transceiver/ CB radio/ Ham radio

User questions & answers

Question: Is it compatible with a uniden bc75xlt scanner
Answer: It worked well for my own dry and breakout-prone skin. I wish I could tell you for sure it will work for you as well!
Question: Will this work as an external speaker for a car mont flip down DVD player
Answer: It may still be in there, but they drastically changed the ingredients. It's not the soap it used to be. More watery, and didnt smell quite the same.
Question: Can this be spliced to allow 2 speakers to run off it and will you still hear it over the scanner speaker
Answer: No I did nor see this in this in ingredients. I hope this helps.
Question: Is it waterproof
Answer: The scent tones are very refreshing almost like you opened op the honey Jair. It has a mild honeysuckle smell but more on a honey sugar cookie smell.

RoadPro RPSP-15 Universal CB Extension Speaker with Swivel Bracket, 2-3/4 x 4-1/2"

RoadPro

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Intensify your CB Radio's sound. The RPSP-15 is great for a replacement CB speaker, or an additional speaker for your CB Radio. It measures 2-3/4" x 4-1/2", and comes with a swivel bracket. This extension speaker is 5 watts & 8 Ohm operating power. It includes a swiverl bracket, 3.5mm plug and 8' cord. This speaker also features a durable metal mesh grill, which will help this speaker last as long as you need.

  • Durable Metal Mesh Grill
  • Includes Swivel Bracket, 3.5mm Plug and 8' Cord
  • 5 Watts & 8 Ohm Operating Power

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on a motorcycle? Is it Bluetooth
Answer: Dear SharonPlease make sure that your audio cable is clicked firmly into the headphone port on your input device.Then, for full volume you must turn up BOTH your Rokono AND your connected device. We suggest that the volume on your connected device should be high in order to generate a good signal and that you then adjust the volume on your Rokono to suite. 
You adjust the volume on your Rokono by scrolling the small wheel which is located on the side of your Rokono, this is item 4 in the list of speaker parts in your manual.
Don’t forget to pop your Rokono open to let the sound out!
If the volume is less than you expected please make sure that your connected device is not restricting the volume to an external speaker. This can sometimes happen if your device assumes you are connecting to headphones in order to protect your ears, but the volume can then be adjusted as described above.If you continue to have a problem pease be assured that we are here to help you, just contact us at [email protected] Rokono is protected by our warranty.best wishesDavidRokono Direct
Question: Is the plug straight or does it have a right angle plug
Answer: Yes. The Rokono has 2 versions; the black with a red top is wired( I have this one). The black with the blue top is bluetooth and a few bucks more.
Question: For those of you who said it was not loud enough, Did you have it plugged into a "external speaker" jack or a "earphone" jack
Answer: The Rokono has the "mini jack" to connect. I don't about the shuffle. Better to make sure before buying. I use it with an MP3 player. Really like the speaker for it's sound quality and small size.
Question: Can you tell me if there is a warranty on this speaker
Answer: No it is NOT compatible w/ Alexa.

Product features

RoadPro RPSP-15 Universal CB Extension Speaker with Swivel Bracket, 2-3/4 x 4-1/2"

Description:

Extension speaker with swivel bracket and durable metal mesh grill.

Features:

  • Durable metal mesh grill
  • Includes swivel bracket, 3.5mm plug and 8' cord
  • Speaker dimensions: 2-3/4 x 4-1/2

Radioddity CB Mobile Radio External Speaker, Mini Universal Portable 5W, 71" Power Cable, for Car Truck Vehicle 4 x 4, Compatible with Radioddity CB-27 Icom ID-5100 Yaesu FT-891 Midland MXT115

Radioddity

Based on 70 reviews Check latest price
  • 5 watts power, allows to get louder and clearer sound, less background noise than the factory radio speaker.
  • 71" power cable is long enough to be routed through the back of the dash, right post and to the speed radar.
  • Easy to use and setup, just mount the bracket with the screws, then plug the jack into the radio.
  • With 3.5mm jack, compatible with most of mini mobile radio and cb radio. It works with Radioddity CB-27, TYT MD-9600, TH-9800, Yaesu Mobile radio FT-7800R , FT-8900R Kenwood TM281, TM481 Icom IC-2720H, IC-2820H etc
  • 1 year warranty, any question, please feel free to reach out to us.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it work with radioddity cb
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Power cord and charging cables are 6 feet.
Question: work with ham radio mobile
Answer: Thanks you for your inquiry. Per the owner's manual for model 71323, "Charge completion is indicated by the CHARGED/MAINTAINING (green) LED. When pulsing, the charger has switched to the maintain mode of operation."
Question: How well does it work with a FT-450D
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Use the battery charger on LEAD-ACID and AGM-type rechargeable batteries with recommended rated capacities of 22-59Ah (12V), as used in automobiles, trucks, tractors, airplanes, vans, RVs, trolling motors, etc. This charger is not intended to supply power to low-voltage electrical systems, other than in a motor-starting application. WARNING: Do not use battery charger with dry cell batteries that are commonly used with home appliances. These batteries may burst and cause injury or damage to property.
Question: This speaker says it works with db25. i tried it with my qb25, and it locks the transmit circuit open. is there an external speaker for qb
Answer: No

Product features

Mini Mobile Radio Speaker

  • Power output: 5W
  • Connector: 3.5mm jack
  • Cable length: 1.8m (71")

Anteenna TW-07-L Type CB EXTENAL Speaker for Mobile Transceiver (Ham Radio/CB Radio) with Swivel Bracket 5W 1.8M Cable with 3.5mm Mono L Type Plug

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

*Impedance:8 Ω *Max Power: 5 Watts

*The length of Cable:1.8M With 3.5mm Mono L TYPE Plug

*Size:114x 65x56mm

*Swivel Bracket

*This Speaker is suitable for Mobile Transceiver (Ham Radio / CB Radio)

  • *Impedance:8 Ω *Max Power: 5 Watts
  • *The length of Cable:1.8M With 3.5mm Mono L TYPE Plug
  • *Size:114x 65x56mm
  • *Swivel Bracket
  • *This Speaker is suitable for Mobile Transceiver (Ham Radio / CB Radio)

User questions & answers

Question: Does this need to be hooked up to 12v
Answer: The Vividia Ablescope can not DIRECTLY connect to iPad/iPhone. The only way is through WiFi. You need to have VA-B2 WiFi AirBox, and download and install "AirBox-Vividia Ablescope" from Apple APP Store. You can purchase AirBox from Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Vividia-Ablescope-VA-B2-Borescopes-Microscopes/dp/B01N4QY6B2/ref=sr_1_2?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1488227944&sr=8-2&keywords=airbox+vividia.

TIDRADIO UV-5R Ham Radio Handheld Walkie Talkie with Double Battery Earpiece Hand Mic and Programming Cable Full Kit (A Set of 1 Pack)

TIDRADIO

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price
  • ✔️Upgrades from Baofeng UV-5R: 128 Memory Channel; 50 CTCSS/105 DCS; VOX Mode for Hands-Free; A/B band independent operation; Busy channel lock-out; Auto Keypad Lock. FCC ID:2AWL3TIDRADIOTDUV5R
  • ✔️All you need is in one box: TD5R comes with programming cable, two 1800 mAh batteries, charger, earphones, hand microphone and TD-771 long antenna, no need to purchase additional accessories, more cost-effective!
  • ✔️ TD-771 high gain antenna: greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception.
  • ✔️ Built-in high brightness LED that can be used as a flashlight or alert system for emergency situations
  • ✔️ Keypad setting and clearly LCD display will offer you more convenience when you need to change some functions
  • ✔️Equipped with speaker mic; giving you clear and high quality sound communications in the noisy environment without holding your radio
  • ✔️TD-5R radio is compatible with CHIRP; More convenient to manual programming most of settings via the keypad

User questions & answers

Question: How many watts does this radio put out
Answer: 5 Watt
Question: Is it uhf only? What is the tx/rx frequency range
Answer: Hello, it is a dual-band radio, which transmits on amateur part15 and part97.

Product features

UV-5R radio Features

  • Voice prompt
  • VOX Function
  • Time-out Time Busy lockout
  • Power saving
  • Emergency alarm
  • SCAN Function
  • Keyboard lock
  • High brightness flashlight

Two ways to charge

  • Charging the radio directly or charging the battery alone
  • 3~4 hours to fully charge an exhausted battery
  • Working time:8~12 hours,longer if moderately use
  • Standby time :24~36 hours
  • Large Capacity Battery: 1800 mAh

Long antenna for signal enhancement

  • Exclusive TD-771 enhanced signal antenna allow you to get longer range on your radio

Long Range

  • As we all know, the distance is largely determined by power and antenna
  • Upgraded Version of Baofeng UV-5R Radio have high power and high-gain antenna, greatly expands the signal transmission distance and enhances signal reception

Powerful channel storage and scanning

  • UV5R ham radio have 128 channels, so you can set the frequencies in advance and store them, it will be more convenient during use
  • With the scan function, you can also seek same frequencies which are talking and join the communication easily and fast

Large battery capacity

2 x 1800mAh Li-ion battery provided 8-12 hours continuous use for your outside activity and you easy to find the replacement battery

CTCSS and DCS Codes

CTCSS and DCS Codes Keep you away from receiving irrelevant calls and allow you to do private communication

VOX

Allows your hands free when busy and adjust the VOX level could control the background noise

Vox function provide real hands free

Allows your hands free when busy and adjust the VOX level could control the background noise.Voice prompt avoid you bump a button without realizing it and accidentally switch channels.

Note: you can use this function with earpieces.

In addition,there are 128 channels can keep your multiple calls.

Ham radio handheld

UV5R Radio is more durable and solid with materials.

Big knob is more comfortable to use.

Crisp Speaker ensure you hear more clearly in a noisy environment.

Two way radio for long time working

Easy to program.

Support Keyboard setting and PC setting.

Upgraded Version of Baofeng UV-5R Radio

High output power can work well for long range;

Emergency alarm function can protect you safe when you are outside.

Red-Fire Rectangular External Communications Speaker for Ham Radio, CB & Scanners

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is high power external speaker for your Mobile Ham radio with cable, plug and mounting bracket.



It can provides clear and strong audio for CB Radios, Amateur Radios, Two Way and Police Scanners.



This speaker can make your audio louder.It also have a 3m length cable.You can put the speaker in a position that won't disturb your work.



This speaker is used for 1 pin two way radios.It can be connected with almost 1 pin walkie talkies and other devices that use 3.5mm mono single pin plug.



The speaker can be adjustable Base.It have 70 degree angle changable.You can adjust the position of the speaker as you like.



Specifications:

High power external speaker with cable, plug and mounting bracket.

☉ Impedance: 4 Ω

☉ Jack size: ? 3.5mm

☉ Speaker Max Power: 5 Watts

☉ Length of wires: approx. 16ft (5m)

☉ Color: Black

☉ Weight: 13oz

☉ Features: adjustable angle bracket

☉ Dimension: approx. 4-?"(W) x 2-?"(H) x 2-?"(D)



Note: Light shooting and different displays may cause the color of the item in the picture a little different from the real thing. The measurement allowed error is +/- 1-3cm.

  • Great for CB Radios, Amateur Radios, Two Way & Police Scanners.
  • Great Sounding Compact Communications External Speaker!
  • Durable Metal Mesh Grill
  • Includes Swivel Bracket, 3.5mm Plug and 16' Cord
  • Color: Black; Impedance: 4 Ω

User questions & answers

Question: will this work on a Kenwood tm d710ga
Answer: If you are talking about the fiber optic cable, only the end of it holds position as directed by the plunger. The rest of the cable is very flexible. when I need it in a fixed position, I tape to a thin piece of aluminum that can be formed as needed. Don't have to do that very often as my hand is generally within a 6 -12 inches of the end of the cable.

Universal CB External Communications Speaker - 25 Watts Water-Resistant Extension Speaker for Mobile Transceiver w/ Swivel Mounting Bracket, 6 Feet Speaker Cable, For HAM Radio - Pyramid CB1000

Pyramid

Based on 50 reviews Check latest price

Product description

8 Ohms ImpedanceMaximum 25 WattsWater Proof Complete w/Mounting acket, Hardware & 6ft of Cable w/Plug Dimensions: 4-Inch x 4.25-Inch x 2.5-Inch

  • VARIOUS APPLICATION: The Pyramid 25 Watts Communication Extension Speaker is an external accessory speaker that offers enhanced audio from CBs, ham radios, and scanners. Rugged and durable enough for any mobile application
  • 25 WATT POWER: The external communication speaker features 25 watts of maximum power w/ 8-ohm impedance and its noise canceling technology helps to reduce electrical interference that other manufacturer's accessory speakers allow to bleed through
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The CB speaker is fully compatible w/ all radios capable of accepting 3.5mm audio plug-in connectors. Installation is quick & easy to perform, it is actually easier than locating your preferred mounting location
  • EASY INSTALLATION: Mount the Pyramid HAM radio speaker using the included swivel mounting bracket hardware. Then plug in the 6 feet speaker wire to the speaker jack on your radio, and enjoy crystal clear audio output
  • WORRY-FREE SHOPPING: With the Pyramid CB1000 25 Watts External Communication Speaker, we are confident of the quality of our product, therefore, we offer a 30 day money back guarantee no questions asked

User questions & answers

Question: Is this suitable for inside a vehicle? Or will internal parts come loose
Answer: I have 2 of the VA800's. The first bought in 2016 came in a cardboard box with sleeves and tool. The second I got in 2017 and it came in the hard plastic case with sleeves and tool.
Question: what is the speaker diameter
Answer: I have been using this scope in a 4" diameter airplane engine cylinder and it is plenty bright enough. Works very well with very good resolution. very happy with it.

CB External Speaker Rectangular Mini NSP-100 Two-Way Radio Speaker Fit for Yaesu FT-847 FT-920 FT-950 FT-2000

Terisass

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Item Type: Car Radio External Speaker NSP-100

Material: ABS

Color: Black

Applicable Radios:

Fit for Yaesu FT-847 FT-920 FT-950 FT-2000, FT-840 FT-DX5000 FT-DX9000



Package List:

1 x Car Radio External Speaker NSP-100



  • ❤️Scope of application: Rectangular External Communications Speaker is a mini-ham CB radio external speaker NSP-100 for radio, especially suitable for Yaesu FT-847 FT-920 FT-950 FT-2000, FT-840 FT-DX5000 FT-DX9000 .
  • ❤️Easy to install: Yaesu external speakers are easy to install, do not require complicated tools, and are easy to use.
  • ❤️Durable: The external communication speaker is made of high-quality ABS, which has maximum durability and long service life. Stable performance, professional performance and high reliability.
  • ❤️Standard manufacturing: Marine VHF car radio, audio speakers with external speakers, car radio, small speakers. Comply with standard specifications and strictly comply with factory quality control.
  • ❤️After-sales service: We provide a 12-month product warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. Our professional and reliable customer service will do our best and provide you with satisfactory solutions within 24 hours, please rest assured to buy.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the Length of cable
Answer: 2 meters

Anteenna TW-09-STRAIGHT Type CB EXTENAL Speaker for Mobile Transceiver (Ham Radio/CB Radio) with Swivel Bracket 5W 1.8M Cable with 3.5mm Mono Straight Type Plug

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

*Impedance:8 Ω *Max Power: 5 Watts

*The length of Cable:1.8M With 3.5mm Mono Straight TYPE Plug

*Size:80x 63x54mm

*Swivel Bracket

*This Speaker is suitable for Mobile Transceiver (Ham Radio / CB Radio)

  • *Impedance:8 Ω *Max Power: 5 Watts
  • *The length of Cable:1.8M With 3.5mm Mono Straight TYPE Plug
  • *Size:80x 63x54mm
  • *Swivel Bracket
  • *This Speaker is suitable for Mobile Transceiver (Ham Radio / CB Radio)

Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8-Watt) UHF VHF Dual Band 2-Way Radio with 2 Rechargeable 2100mAh Battery Handheld Walkie Talkies Complete Set with Earpiece and Programming Cable

Greaval

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Programmable: You can use either the keypad or programming cable (included) to program the radio frequencies to make them work with your current system.

Extra 2100mAh Li-ion Battery: one more standby battery for each walky talky to boost the communication time for your business, trips or daily tasks.

SRH805S SMA-Female Antenna: Shorter antenna for indoor short range use, gives more comfort when carrying the radio on your waist/shoulder.

High Gain Antenna: A soft flexible antenna able to withstand more 'roughness' than a stock radio antenna, all while boosting the signal of your radio significantly!



Technical Specification

Freq. Range: VHF:136~174 MHz/UHF:400~520 MHz

FM Radio Reception: 65.0MHz~108.0MHz

Frequency Stability: ±2.5ppm

Dual-Band Display/Dual-Standby

Tri-color backlit LCD Display

Built-in LED Flashlight

Transmit Power: 8W / 5W / 1W switchable

128 Channel memory, 50 CTCSS/104 DCS codes

Maximum deviation: 5kHz(Wide) / <2.5kHz(Narrow)

CTCSS/DCS deviation: 0.5+/-0.1kHz(Wide) / 0.3+/-0.1kHz(Narrow)

Bandwidth 25KHz/12.5KHz Switchable

Channel Step: 2.5/5/6.25/10/12.5/25KHz

Emergency Alarm feature

Low Battery Alert

Battery Saver (1~4 level)

Transmit Time-out Timer

Keypad Lock(Auto/Manual)

Channel Monitor/Scan

Built-in VOX Function

1750Hz Tone Burst

ROGER Beep function

English voice prompt

Operating Voltage: DC 7.4V

Battery Capacity: 2100 mAh

Desktop charger input: 100~240V

Dimension: 4.3×2.3×1.3 inches excluding the antenna.

Item Weight: 6.77oz（Not included antenna）



Package Content:

1 × Greaval UV-5R 8W Radio

2 × 2100mAh Li-ion Battery

1 × Programming Cable

1 × RH-771 High Gain Antenna

1 × SRH805S Short Antenna

1 × Original Antenna

1 × Hand Microphone

1 × Car Charger Adapter

1 × Power Adapter

1 × Earpiece

1 × Belt Clip

1 × Hand Strap

1 × User's manual

  • RF Power Output: (8w/5w/1w) High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Amateur Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace, etc.)
  • Power Source: Rechargeable 2100 mAh Li-ion Battery, Supports 12-20 Hours continual use, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included.
  • Frequency Range: 65-108 MHz(commercial FM radio reception only) VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx), 128 channel memory, channel programmable via the keypad.
  • Wide Compatibility: The Greaval UV5R 8watt Dual band ham radio covers most commonly used frequency range, makes it compatible with many other radios such as the BF-F8HP/UV 82HP, etc.
  • Complete Set: Package contains a full set of accessories, no more worry about looking for compatible accessories. Best choice for your business. 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty, hardware and tech-support provided.

User questions & answers

Question: Will i be able to program frequencies using chirp software
Answer: Sure, you can, CHIRP recognizes this model as BF-F8HP as the driver is the same.
Question: Will this be sufficient to contact draw bridges while aboard our sailboat
Answer: I think it will as long as they broadcast on UHF or VHF. It works in some state parks to contact the ranger stations. That is the best I can answer not 100% sure.
Question: Can this unit be setup like a scanner and monitor police and fire band or frequencies
Answer: It just depends on whether or not your Police/fire/EMS agency operates on the frequencies covered by this radio or not. Many do. Many have also moved over to digital systems. Near my house, the county Sheriff's dispatch and several fire/ems outfits do as well. In the neighboring county, they have moved to digital and I cannot monitor them with this radio. Because this radio covers a wide swath of amateur and professional VHF and UHF bands, you can probably pick up some area businesses, farms, municipalities, railroads, schools, utilities etc. Listings are available online.
Question: How long does one battery last
Answer: I've run them 16 hrs straight between charging in temps below 32 degrees.

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