Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70 Review

A Close Look at the Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70

When you’re out on the water, clear and reliable communication is paramount. My setup aboard my vessel, a cherished, if sometimes temperamental, thirty-foot cruiser, relies heavily on Raymarine electronics. While the main helm unit handles the bulk of the navigation and communication, I’ve long felt the need for a secondary comms point. This became particularly apparent during anchor deployment or when guests are relaxing on the aft deck; stepping down to the main cabin to hail another vessel or switch channels felt cumbersome and, frankly, a bit of a security risk while underway or maneuvering. This need for extended reach led me to the Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70.

The primary driver for this purchase was to achieve full control of my Ray60 VHF radio from a more convenient location, namely the cockpit. Existing solutions were either clunky interfaces or limited functionality. I briefly considered simpler intercom systems, but the idea of having true, full-function VHF control remotely was too attractive to pass up. My first impression upon unboxing the Raymic was one of solid, well-executed marine-grade construction. It felt substantial, not at all like a flimsy accessory, and the materials exuded a sense of durability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds were the familiar waters of the Chesapeake Bay, specifically during a multi-day excursion involving anchorages, coastal cruising, and some close-quarters maneuvering in a crowded marina. The installation was straightforward, connecting the handset via an extension cable (sold separately, as noted) to the main Ray60 unit. From the moment I powered it on, the Raymic handset felt remarkably intuitive. It was immediately apparent that this wasn’t just a microphone extension; it was a fully integrated second station.

The oversized LCD display was a standout feature right out of the box. Even in bright, direct sunlight, the high-contrast text and graphics remained perfectly legible. Navigating through the menus and accessing different VHF functions, such as channel scanning, DSC calls, and power output adjustments, was a breeze. I particularly appreciated the ability to make station-to-station intercom calls between the Raymic handset and the main radio, which proved invaluable for coordinating docking maneuvers without shouting across the boat.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and countless hours of use across various conditions, the Raymic handset has proven itself to be a robust and indispensable part of my marine electronics suite. It’s been subjected to occasional sea spray and the general humidity of a marine environment without any apparent degradation in performance. I haven’t experienced any signs of wear and tear on the handset itself; the buttons remain responsive, and the display is as clear as day one.

Compared to previous basic VHF extensions I’ve used on other boats, this Raymarine unit’s integration and full functionality are a significant step up. The ability to manage the radio entirely from the cockpit, whether I’m at the helm or just enjoying the view, has genuinely enhanced my onboard experience. Maintenance is virtually non-existent beyond an occasional wipe-down, which is exactly what you want from marine equipment.

Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70

Specifications

The Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70 is designed to be a compact, full-function second station for compatible Raymarine radios. Its primary role is to extend the reach and control of your Ray60 or Ray70 VHF radio to another location on your vessel. The unit features an oversized LCD display with high-contrast text and graphics, ensuring excellent visibility in all lighting conditions, from bright midday sun to the dim glow of a night passage. Its intuitive icon-driven menus are designed for ease of use, minimizing the learning curve for new users.

The handset is described as compact and waterproof, allowing for flexible mounting virtually anywhere on board, whether above or below decks. A key functionality is the station-to-station intercom calling, enabling direct communication between the Raymic handset and the main radio unit. The built-in, premium quality speaker contributes to crystal-clear audio for both radio transmissions and intercom calls. The product color is specified as Black, a standard and practical choice for marine electronics. It’s important to note that the extension cable is not included and must be purchased separately, available in 5m, 10m, and 15m lengths.

Performance & Functionality

The Raymic handset excels at its core task: providing full functional remote control of the Ray60/Ray70 VHF radio. Every feature accessible from the main unit, from changing channels and selecting power output to initiating distress calls via DSC, is available through this handset. The high-contrast display is genuinely impressive, making it easy to read even with polarized sunglasses on or when facing direct glare. I found the intuitive icons and menus to be a significant advantage, allowing me to quickly access features without fumbling through complex button sequences.

The station-to-station intercom functionality is a standout performance feature. It’s incredibly useful for coordinating tasks between different areas of the boat, like calling the helm from the stern or vice-versa, without needing to rely on shouts or mobile phones. The audio quality from the built-in speaker is surprisingly robust and clear, easily cutting through typical engine and ambient noise. The waterproof design also provides peace of mind, as a few unexpected splashes or a brief shower aren’t a concern.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, the Raymic handset feels robust and well-built. The plastics used are high-quality and feel solid to the touch, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of a marine environment. Its compact size makes it easy to handle with one hand and doesn’t feel obtrusive when mounted. The placement of the primary controls, including the channel selector, PTT button, and menu navigation keys, is ergonomic and logical.

The large LCD screen is the centerpiece, dominating the front face and providing ample space for information display. The button layout is clean and uncluttered, which contributes to its ease of use. While I didn’t encounter any significant ergonomic annoyances, the button feel could be slightly crisper for my preference, though this is a minor point and doesn’t detract from its overall usability. The black finish is classic and blends well with other marine electronics.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, this Raymarine handset feels like it’s built to last. The materials suggest good resistance to UV exposure and saltwater. While I haven’t intentionally subjected it to extreme abuse, the solid build quality implies good resilience against accidental drops or impacts, within reason. Given its intended use as a marine accessory, the waterproof rating is a critical factor, and its performance in this regard gives confidence in its long-term reliability.

Maintenance is blessedly simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s typically needed to keep the screen clean and the handset free of salt residue. There are no user-serviceable parts that require regular attention, which is a hallmark of good marine electronics design. I haven’t identified any obvious weak points or potential failure modes, which is a testament to its robust engineering.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70 comes as a self-contained unit. The most critical “accessory” is, of course, the extension cable, which is not included and needs to be purchased separately in the required length (5m, 10m, or 15m). The availability of these different lengths is a practical consideration, allowing users to tailor the installation to their vessel’s specific layout.

Beyond the extension cable, there are no other significant customization options for the handset itself. It is designed to be a plug-and-play solution that seamlessly integrates with the compatible Raymarine radios. This lack of customization is not a detriment, as the unit is already highly functional and well-specified for its intended purpose. The primary “customization” comes in choosing the appropriate cable length for your boat.

Pros and Cons of Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70

Who Should Buy Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70?

This Raymarine handset is an ideal purchase for any boater who owns a Raymarine Ray60 or Ray70 VHF radio and desires the convenience of a fully functional second station. If you frequently find yourself away from your main helm, whether you’re at the flying bridge, on the aft deck, or even in the galley, this unit will dramatically improve your communication capabilities and overall operational efficiency. It’s particularly well-suited for larger vessels where the distance between potential communication points is significant.

Conversely, if you primarily operate a smaller vessel where the main helm is always within immediate reach, or if you have a simpler VHF radio without advanced features like DSC or AIS integration, this handset might be overkill. Those on a very tight budget may also want to explore simpler, less integrated intercom solutions if full VHF control isn’t a strict requirement. For enhanced usability, I’d recommend pre-planning your cable run to ensure it’s clean, secure, and doesn’t create a tripping hazard.

Conclusion on Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70

The Raymarine VHF Radio Raymic 2nd Station Handset Option For Ray 60, Ray 70 is a premium accessory that delivers on its promise of full remote VHF control. The combination of its oversized, high-contrast display, intuitive interface, and robust, waterproof construction makes it a top-tier option for extending the functionality of compatible Raymarine radios. While the price point is undoubtedly on the higher side, especially when factoring in the cost of the extension cable, the performance and convenience it offers are undeniable.

For serious boaters who prioritize clear, accessible communication and value the seamless integration of their electronics, this handset is a worthwhile investment. It transforms the usability of the main radio, offering unparalleled flexibility. I would readily recommend this unit to anyone looking to upgrade their onboard communication capabilities and seeking a reliable, high-performance second station solution. It’s a product that enhances safety and enjoyment on the water, making it a solid addition to any Raymarine-equipped vessel.