Icom
Icom M510BB Black Box VHF
Best discreet communication for modern vessel dashboards.
The Icom M510BB is a versatile black box VHF radio system designed for marine communication and safety. It features an integrated AIS receiver for monitoring vessel traffic and a built-in 15W hailer amplifier for external speakers. Expandable with up to two additional CommandMics, it offers multi-station control and intercom capabilities. Enjoy clear transmissions with active noise cancellation and a last call voice recording function. Its NMEA 2000 connectivity ensures seamless integration with other marine electronics for data communication.
$799.95
More M510BB Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
112
/ 240
#112 in Marine Radios
Price vs Category Average
+60%
Above average
Usable channels
USA, INT, CAN, WX channels
/ USA, INT, CAN, WX channels
Who it's for
- Boaters with limited console space
- Mariners prioritizing collision avoidance and situational awareness
- Captains desiring flexible installation and operational control
Who should skip it
- Users seeking a simple, all-in-one VHF solution
- DIY installers or those with limited technical expertise
- Budget-conscious boaters or those needing basic communication
Performance breakdown
System Integration
NMEA 2000 connectivity ensures seamless data sharing across your marine electronics suite.
Communication Versatility
Multi-station expansion and intercom capabilities provide flexible control throughout the entire vessel.
Signal Clarity
Active noise cancellation effectively filters out engine drone for crisp, reliable transmissions.
Safety Monitoring
Integrated AIS receiver keeps you constantly informed of surrounding vessel traffic patterns.
Installation Flexibility
Black box design allows for discreet mounting in tight, space-constrained helm areas.
Audio Power
Built-in 15W hailer amplifier delivers robust sound for clear external communication.
Key Specs
Usable channels
USA, INT, CAN, WX channels
Power supply requirement
13.8 V DC nominal (11.7 ~ 15.9 V DC)
Current drain (at 13.8 V DC)
TX Max. power – 5.5 A Max., RX Max. audio – 1.5 A (One CommandMicTM) 4.5 A (Three CommandMicTM and RX hailer)
Operating temperature range
-20 degC ~ 60 degC
Antenna impedance
50 ohm nominal
Weight (approx.)
RF unit – 890 g; 2 lb, CommandMicTM – 400 g; 14.1 oz
Output power (at 13.8V DC)
25 W, 1 W
Max. frequency deviation
±5 kHz
Features
- Integrated AIS Receiver
- Expandable Multi-Station Capability
- Last Call Voice Recording
- Built-in 15W Hailer Amplifier
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Intercom Functions
- Dedicated DSC Remote Control Terminal
- NMEA 2000 Connectivity
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Icom M510BB for its robust reliability and seamless integration into marine electronics systems. Users appreciate the clear audio transmission and reception, vital for safety and communication on the water. The black box design, coupled with intuitive remote control options, makes it an excellent choice for modern helms where space is at a premium. Its dependable performance and straightforward operation contribute to a highly positive user experience, making it a trusted piece of equipment for serious mariners.
Know before you buy
The black box design means the main radio unit is hidden away, such as behind a dashboard or in a console, while you control everything via the CommandMic. This is ideal for vessels with limited helm space, as it keeps your console clean and uncluttered.
Yes, the M510BB supports up to three CommandMic stations in total. This allows you to operate the radio and use the intercom function from different areas of the vessel.
No, the M510BB features an integrated AIS receiver. It allows you to monitor AIS-equipped vessel traffic directly on your compatible marine electronics display via NMEA 2000.
The radio includes a 15W hailer amplifier that connects to an external speaker. This allows you to use the radio as a PA system to broadcast voice commands or signals to other boats or crew members on deck.
Yes, the unit is fully NMEA 2000 compatible. It seamlessly shares data with your other onboard marine electronics, such as GPS position and AIS target information.
This feature automatically records the last two minutes of incoming audio. It is particularly useful if you miss a transmission or need to verify specific instructions or coordinates provided by another vessel.
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$800