Originally published August 10, 2013. This article covers legacy Rugged Radios products introduced in 2013. The RW-H43 headset and associated wireless adapters may no longer be available in their original configurations.
Rugged Radios introduced the RW-H43 wireless off-road headset in August 2013, giving UTV drivers, race crews and spotters a way to connect a Bluetooth-equipped cellphone while retaining access to a two-way radio.
The headset could handle hands-free phone calls and stream music from a paired Bluetooth device. A five-pin radio port allowed the RW-H43 to connect to a compatible two-way radio, providing the communication functions found on Rugged Radios’ conventional wired off-road headsets.
Bluetooth Calling and Music
Once paired with a cellphone, the RW-H43 allowed the user to answer or end calls by pressing a button on the headset. Bluetooth audio also made it possible to listen to music without running an audio cable between the phone and headset.
This was a notable feature in 2013, when Bluetooth connectivity was still uncommon in dedicated off-road communication equipment.
Rugged Radios RW-H43 Features
- Bluetooth cellphone connectivity
- Hands-free calling
- Wireless music streaming
- Five-pin port for connecting a compatible two-way radio
- Dynamic noise-canceling microphone
- Flexible microphone boom
- Headset volume control
- Integrated push-to-talk button
- Waterproof push-to-talk cover
- Large over-the-ear seals
- Rubberized exterior coating intended to resist scratches
Wireless Intercom Adapter Kit
The original announcement also described a separate Rugged Radios wireless adapter system. It was designed to eliminate the cable normally connecting an existing five-pin headset or off-road helmet kit to an intercom.
The wireless adapter package carried a stated 2013 MSRP of $399 and included:
- Wireless intercom adapter box
- Headset or helmet-kit adapter box
- CS-3-5P five-pin intercom cable
The paired adapters were intended to provide wireless communication between the user’s headset or helmet kit and the vehicle’s intercom. This allowed owners to retain compatible five-pin equipment while reducing cable clutter inside or around the UTV.
Designed for Off-Road Communication
Rugged Radios promoted the wireless products for UTV riding, off-road racing, rock crawling, crew chiefs and spotters. The combination of Bluetooth audio and two-way-radio compatibility offered more flexibility than a basic entertainment headset.
The RW-H43 and the original wireless adapters are now legacy products. Riders shopping for a current system should review the latest Rugged Radios UTV and off-road communication equipment, including modern Bluetooth intercoms, radios and headsets.
Editor’s note: Bluetooth music and phone features are separate from vehicle-to-vehicle radio communication. Two-way radios operate on regulated frequencies, and licensing requirements vary by radio service and location.
