News Sena Phantom ANC: The first headset that "turns off" road noise

Noise isn't just a minor detail; it's the number one enemy of long-distance motorcyclists. With the Phantom ANC, Sena isn't just adding an intercom: the brand is launching the first full-face helmet capable of actively canceling out noise pollution. It's a promise of serenity that has to be experienced to be believed.

At speeds above 55 mph, the airflow hitting the helmet shell generates a noise comparable to that of a chainsaw (around 90 dB). It is this wall of sound that tires the body, wears down concentration, and ultimately spoils the enjoyment of long rides. Sena is one of the major players in the communications market, and the manufacturer is now stepping up a gear by tackling pure acoustics with its new flagship product: the Phantom ANC.

ANC technology: 10 years of research for customized silence

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is well known to air travelers, but its application to motorcycles is a colossal technical challenge. Unlike the stable environment of an airplane cabin, motorcycle helmets have to deal with erratic turbulence, angle changes, and constant engine vibrations.

Sena spent more than ten years working on an algorithm capable of isolating exhausting frequencies (wind noise) while allowing vital safety sounds (sirens, horns) to pass through. The result? A 20-decibel attenuation, or a reduction of nearly 75% in sound pressure. It's a disorienting experience: when you activate the system, the environment instantly quiets down, giving way to unprecedented sound clarity.

A duel at the pinnacle of integrated technology

This launch marks a milestone in "augmented" motorcycle gear. The Phantom ANC is part of the all-in-one system strategy that we already highlighted when the Sena Outstar S2, Outrush, and Outride helmets were released. But here, the level of finish and ambition has been taken up a notch. The smart helmet market is booming, as recently demonstrated by the Cardo Beyond GTS. While Cardo is betting on the perfect ergonomics of its communication module, Sena is taking a step back to offer a truly integrated solution.

The smart helmet market is booming, as recently demonstrated by the Cardo Beyond GTS. While Cardo is betting on the perfect ergonomics of its communication module, Sena is taking a step ahead in terms of physiological comfort by offering a solution that could eventually make earplugs obsolete for many riders. More than just an electronic chip: a real fiber cocoon

More than just an electronic chip: a real fiber cocoon

For electronics to be effective, the base must be flawless. The Phantom ANC is based on an ECE 22.06-certified composite fiberglass shell. The internal architecture has been completely redesigned with innovative acoustic chambers. These areas envelop the ear to maximize passive isolation even before the ANC system is activated.

The equipment is complete for touring or everyday use:

• Lighting safety: A front LED for visibility from the front and a smart rear brake light triggered by an accelerometer.
• Comfort: Retractable sun visor, Pinlock lens included, and high-quality removable/washable interior.
• Total connectivity: Mesh 3.0 integration for group rides and Wave protocol (unlimited range via 4G/5G network).

Should you fall for this "silent revolution"?

Sold for €619 at Speedway, the Phantom ANC is positioned in the high-end helmet market. Although this price is substantial, it remains competitive compared to purchasing a premium fiber helmet coupled with a high-end Mesh intercom bought separately.

But beyond the numbers, it's the riding experience that changes. Less noise means less fatigue, better hearing of your music or calls, and above all, increased vigilance on the road. This is equipment that cannot be described, but must be tried to appreciate the technological leap made by Sena.

Technical specifications of the Sena Phantom ANC

• Type: Full-face ECE 22.06
• Material: Composite fiberglass
• Weight: 1720 g (size M)
• Communication: Bluetooth 5.3, Mesh 2.0/3.0, Wave
• Noise reduction: Active (ANC) + AI noise reduction on the microphone (AINR)
• Battery life: 35 hours of talk time
• Charging time: 2.5 hours
• Price: $619
• Availability: Immediate (Colors: Matte black, Glossy black, Glossy white)
• Composite fiberglass shell
• Multi-density EPS foam
• Double-D buckle chin strap
• Removable and washable interior
• Ventilation: chin guard and forehead
• LED light at the front
• LED lights at the rear: daytime running lights and brake lights
• Pinlock compatible
• Retractable sun visor
• Voice commands
  
• Bluetooth 5.3
• Intercom type:
  • Wave Intercom
  • Mesh Intercom 3.0
  • Mesh Intercom 2.0
• Intercom range:
  • Intercom Wave: unlimited range
  • Intercom Mesh: 2 km in open terrain
• Number of users:
  • Wave intercom: virtually unlimited
  • Intercom in Open Mesh mode: virtually unlimited
  • Intercom in Group Mesh mode (private): up to 24 users
• Multi-brand compatibility thanks to Wave
• 1700 mAh battery
• Wireless OTA (Over-the-Air) updates
• SENA Motorcycles app
• SENA Wave app
• Available sizes: S, M, L, XL, and XXL