Hear comms without losing your mix
The CAi-2 is designed for engineers who need to stay on comms whilst still hearing the PA and monitoring accurately.
Monitor comms using acoustically transparent earpieces, get comms into IEMs, record intercom audio, or quickly get audio in and out of headset-based comms systems when production throws you something unexpected..
The CAi-2 was developed to solve a common problem in live audio.
Needing to stay on comms whilst still hearing the show properly.
Traditional comms headsets make accurate monitoring difficult. Take one ear off so you can hear the PA, and suddenly you’re missing cues, production calls, and communication with the wider team.
The CAi-2 gives direct access to comms audio through the headset connection, allowing it to be monitored alongside PA audio, routed into consoles or IEM systems, or recorded directly when needed.
It has also become an incredibly useful utility tool for those last-minute “we need a 2-wire to 4-wire” moments, emergency comms interfacing, or simply getting audio in and out of unfamiliar comms systems when production throws something unexpected at you.
A built-in headphone amplifier allows direct comms monitoring using acoustically transparent earpieces, removing the need to rely on a traditional comms headset altogether.
Common Applications & Recommended Setup
FOH Engineers
Monitor comms using an acoustically transparent earpiece whilst maintaining awareness of the PA and room, allowing you to stay on comms without compromising your mix.
Monitor Engineers
Route comms directly into IEM mixes alongside programme audio, keeping production communication exactly where you need it.
Broadcast & Recording
Record intercom audio directly into consoles, DAWs, or external recording systems when comms capture is required.
Live Production & Corporate Events
A practical utility tool for those last-minute “we need audio in and out of this comms system” moments when standard interfaces are unavailable.
For engineers wanting a lightweight alternative to a traditional comms headset, the CAi-2 works particularly well when paired with a Shure WH20 headset microphone and an acoustically transparent earpiece such as the Bubblebee Sidekick, creating a comfortable monitoring setup that keeps you connected to both comms and the world around you.
Key features
Comms system interface
Connect a comms pack or panel via the headset port, allowing use with a wide range of comms systems
Headphone monitoring
Built-in amplifier for monitoring comms directly or after console processing
Mic routing and pass-through
Route a microphone directly to comms or through external equipment
Line-level send and return
Integrate comms audio into a mixing console for processing and control
Selectable signal routing
Front panel switches for quick configuration changes
High-quality signal path
Uses professional audio-grade components, including Neutrik audio transformers to minimise noise
Compact metal enclosure
Durable design suitable for live and production environments
External low-voltage power
Powered from a standard 18V DC supply
Assembled by hand in the UK
✓ Ships from UK
✓ 14-day returns
✓ Need compatibility advice? Contact us
Compatibility
The CAi-2 is designed to work with a wide range of comms systems via the headset connection.
While common wiring standards are supported, headset port configurations can vary between manufacturers and systems.
Every CAi-2 is shipped with a 4-pin female-to-female XLR headset adaptor cable.
Additional adaptor variants available separately.
If you’re unsure about your setup, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to advise.
FAQs
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Yes. By accessing the headset microphone and headphone signals, comms audio can be routed into standard audio equipment including mixing consoles, recording devices, and monitoring systems.
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Yes. Using acoustically transparent earpieces and the integrated headphone amplifier, comms can be monitored while still maintaining awareness of the room and PA system.
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Yes. The CAi-2 allows comms audio to be routed into monitoring systems and IEM mixes alongside programme audio.
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Yes. Once presented as a standard audio signal, comms can be routed to recording equipment or DAWs in the same way as other audio sources.
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Every CAi-2 ships with a standard 4-pin female-to-female XLR adaptor cable compatible with many common comms systems. Additional adaptor variants are also available for systems using different headset connector formats.
The CAi-2 headset interface is wired:
Pin 1: Mic -
Pin 2: Mic +
Pin 3: Speaker -
Pin 4: Speaker +
Compatible systems may include Clear-Com, RTS, Green-GO, Riedel, Tecpro, and other headset-based intercom systems using similar wiring conventions.
If you’re unsure whether your comms system is compatible, please get in touch before ordering.
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The CAi-2 includes a built-in headphone amplifier and headset microphone interface, making it possible to monitor comms alongside programme audio using acoustically transparent earpieces while still speaking normally on the comms system. This allows cues and communication to remain audible without isolating you from the room or PA system.
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The CAi-2 doesn’t just break out the signals — it provides transformer isolated line-level I/O, reduces noise and grounding issues, and includes a dedicated headphone amplifier for proper comms monitoring.