B&G launches new SonicHub 2 marine audio entertainment system

by Andrew Golden on 20 Nov 2015 B&G®, the world’s leading sailing navigation and instrument specialist, announced today the release of the B&G SonicHub®2 marine audio server and entertainment system. The system gives users complete control of songs, radio stations as well as video from B&G Zeus2 multifunction displays and glass-helm systems. SonicHub2 is also the first marine audio system built on the newly implemented NMEA 2000® Audio Entertainment protocol.

A newly released, drop-in replacement for the original SonicHub entertainment system, the enhanced, black-box solution provides independent dual-zone control and features built-in Bluetooth audio streaming, dual stereo AUX-IN connections, integrated support for Pandora® internet radio via smartphone or tablet without the need for additional hardware (U.S. only), and compatibility with the WM-3 SiriusXM® satellite radio/marine weather module (U.S. only, subscription required). SonicHub2 is compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, comes equipped with a video output for USB video playback, has dual USB ports for connecting/charging multiple devices, and includes a built-in AM/FM antenna.

“Helping sailors enjoy their time on the water has always been our top priority,” said Leif Ottosson, CEO of Navico. “Our multifunction displays offer an efficient and user-friendly interface for navigation, radar and sonar information. With SonicHub2, we offer boaters an integrated, high-quality audio entertainment solution for the complete boating experience.”

Navico research and development was instrumental in developing the NMEA 2000® Entertainment protocol for marine accessory manufacturers. The protocol will be used to connect, control and monitor any audio-visual source with any controlling device such as a multifunction display, personal computer, smartphone or tablet. In addition to playing songs, radio stations and video, the protocol allows for standardization of other entertainment functions such as: file status queries, independent sound zone control, system configuration status, pre-defined and user-defined equalizer pre-sets, access to playable files library, USB access and organization, Sirius® XM radio sourcing, personal playlist recall and editing, audio-video library search, saving of favorites, and Bluetooth device connection and source status.

The B&G SonicHub2 blackbox is priced at $329 USD. B&G-branded 200-Watt, two-way, 6.5-inch marine-grade speakers can be purchased separately for $59.95 USD a pair. SonicHub2 is available from authorized distributors throughout the U.S. and Canada.

For more information on the B&G SonicHub2, Zeus2 series navigation systems or the entire line of award-winning B&G sailing tactical and navigational electronics, please click here