About this kit
A complete, vehicle-specific Rugged Radios communication system — crystal-clear driver-to-passenger intercom plus long-range car-to-car radio, with a no-fabrication mount.
What’s in the box
- Intercom — 696 PLUS or STX Stereo remote head
- Waterproof mobile 2-way radio (M1 VHF or G1 GMRS)
- Vehicle-specific mount — no fabrication
- Driver + passenger push-to-talks
- 2 intercom cables (driver + passenger)
- 15′ antenna coax + long-range antenna
- Active filter & reusable cable ties
A complete 2-seat system. Headsets and helmet kits are not included — pick them in the builder above. Running 4 seats? Add a rear-seat expansion (it includes both rear seats’ audio and cabling).
Choose your intercom
Most popular
696 PLUS
Bluetooth music & phone, VOX music-dimming, crystal-clear driver-to-passenger intercom. The proven all-rounder.
True stereo
STX Stereo
Everything in the 696 PLUS plus true stereo music for full-range, high-fidelity sound.
Pick yours in the builder — the rear-seat expansion options match it automatically.
Choose your radio
Most popular
G1 — GMRS
Best for trail, overland & car-to-car. The license is $35 for 10 years, no test, and covers your whole family.
Race & pro
M1 — VHF Business Band
The race-team standard for coordinated, private frequencies. Uses a business-band license or Rugged’s license-sharing program.
An FCC license is required to transmit — it’s easier than it sounds. See the radio licensing guide →
Headsets, cables & compatibility
Do the headsets include the cable to the intercom?
Yes. Over-the-head and behind-the-head headsets have a hard-wired coil cord and include the universal 2-in-1 adapter, so they plug straight into either intercom.
What about helmet kits — do those need a cable?
Helmet kits are the in-helmet wiring (mic + speakers). They connect through the kit’s 2 included intercom cables — so for a 2-seat build you’re covered with no extra cord to buy.
How do I run 4 seats?
Choose “4-Seat” in the builder and pick a rear-seat expansion. It’s a complete bundle — both rear seats’ headsets or helmet kits, 16′ cables, and the expansion module — matched to the intercom you selected.
Which headset works with my intercom?
All headsets here work with both the 696 PLUS and STX Stereo intercoms. For true stereo music, pair an STX intercom with an Ultimate or AlphaBass headset.
Do I need a license to use the radio?
Yes — the FCC requires a license to transmit. The good news: GMRS (the G1) is $35 for 10 years, has no test, and covers your whole immediate family — usually approved in 1–5 days. VHF Business Band (the M1) is for racers and pros, using a business license or Rugged’s license-sharing program. Full radio licensing guide →