Marine loudspeaker
Garmin has launched its new Apollo marine speakers and subwoofer which are designed to provide an improved audio experience on the water. The devices combine high-quality sound with a variable design. With interchangeable grilles and multi-coloured LED light rings, they can be visually adapted to the boat. The marine speakers and subwoofers are designed to deliver clear and undistorted sound even at higher volumes. According to Garmin, this is achieved through an optimised speaker design and the use of new materials.
The coaxial speakers cover the entire audio spectrum, while the subwoofers provide powerful bass. They are designed to be used together with Fusion stereo systems and amplifiers as a complete system. The devices can be controlled via smartphone using the Fusion Audio app or compatible Garmin smartwatches. The new Apollo series is available in various sizes so that it can be integrated on board a wide range of boats: The speakers come in 6.5 inches (15.2 centimetres), 7.7 inches (17.8 centimetres) and 8.8 inches (20.3 centimetres); the subwoofers are available in 10 inches (25.4 centimetres) and 12 inches (30.5 centimetres). The new Fusion Apollo series is available for between 500 and 950 euros, depending on the model.
- More information: www.garmin.com
Stool for the winch
The Norwegian company Tides has developed the Winch Seat has launched a folding seat for attaching to the winch. The stool with backrest is attached to the winch like a winch handle using a stainless steel star adapter on the underside. It can then be turned as desired to enjoy the best view. The only requirement is that the winch must be free standing. Genoa winches on the coaming are therefore ideal. The back and underside of the folding seat are made of GRP. The cushions for the seat and back are made of EVA foam. According to the manufacturer, the material should be resistant to moisture, mould, stains and UV radiation. When folded, the Winch Seat is only 11 centimetres high, 40 centimetres wide and 47 centimetres deep. With the backrest unfolded, the seat is 45 centimetres high. It weighs three kilograms and comes with a cotton storage bag. The price: 230 euros.
- More information: www.tidesnorway.com
Recall autopilot unit
Raymarine is recalling two autopilot units. Some batches of the ACU-150 and ACU-400 models are affected. "As part of regular quality monitoring, we have noticed that a small number of units were fitted with a drive component with the wrong specification between June and July 2022," says the manufacturer. For ACU-150, serial numbers 0720203, 0620001 to 0629999 and 0720001 to 0720131 are affected. For ACU-400 it is 420339, 0920329 as well as 0620001 to 0629999 and 0720001 to 0720151.
According to Raymarine, the units can suddenly fail and either stop working altogether or, even worse, turn the rudder in one direction as far as it will go. Sailors whose autopilot is affected by the recall are asked to stop using it immediately. A replacement should then be installed by the dealer. Before replacing it, it is advisable to make a note of all individual settings so that they can be reproduced on the replacement device. The autopilot should also be recalibrated. On raymarine.com you will find detailed instructions on where to find the serial numbers.
Error correction mooring test YACHT 22/2024
In the Mooring test in YACHT 22/2024 unfortunately a mistake has crept in. The high-performance mooring line is not produced by Gleistein as stated, but by Ropetec. The Bremen-based splicing company developed the idea with the rubber stoppers integrated into the line and also manufactures the mooring lines on site. Only the basic material comes from Gleistein. SVB also sells the Ropetec product.
Cushion fender
Cushion fender were originally developed for offshore racing yachts. They offer more extensive protection on the hull without rolling sideways like conventional cylindrical types. The models from French manufacturer Outils Ocean are now available from wholesaler Lindemann. The wider protection is particularly welcome on boats without a rubbing strake. They are attached to polypropylene webbing straps at all four corners. This means they can be positioned on the freeboard in a variety of ways and can even be used as a step to step onto low gangways on deck. The grey upper material is said to be particularly resistant to UV radiation and seawater. The standard model measures 55 x 40 x 10 centimetres. The sizes 46 x 24 x 10 and the thicker version measuring 55 x 40 x 20 centimetres as well as the colours white and navy blue are available on request. The standard model weighs 850 grams and costs 104 euros.
- More information: www.lindemann-kg.de
