Garmin has unveiled new updates for the GTR 205 and GTR 205x slimline COMM radios that add optional integrated audio panel capabilities, including a four-place intercom, dual-COMM switching, and COMM playback.
The GTR 205 COMM radio/audio panel is for certified aircraft, while the GTR 205x COMM radio/audio panel is for experimental aircraft.
The existing two-place intercom functionality can now be expanded to a four-place intercom, enabling communications with passengers in addition to your co-pilot, Garmin officials said.
Individual volume controls are available for the pilot and co-pilot, with a combined setting for passengers.
All four positions have dedicated mic-in for auto-squelch and can automatically sense noise levels in the cockpit and adjust the mic squelch, company officials added.
A pilot-isolate feature gives the pilot the option to focus on COMM radio communications while the co-pilot and passengers continue to communicate or listen to music, officials added.
GTR 205 and GTR 205x also now optionally feature dual-COMM switching to manage an additional COMM radio – similar to a dedicated audio panel, Garmin officials said. After being connected via an AUX input, GTR 205 or GTR 205x will allow pilots to control selections for transmitting and monitoring the second COMM radio, company officials explained.
A backup mode will automatically connect the pilot’s headset to the second radio in the event GTR 205 or GTR 205x loses power. Four AUX inputs are available, which can be used for a second COMM, audio alerts and more, with two inputs capable of optional stereo pairing.
With the new COMM playback capability, GTR 205 and GTR 205x can also record up to 150 seconds of radio transmissions. Pilots can replay clearances, missed radio calls, and more, Garmin officials said.
Bluetooth connectivity allows pilots to pair their smartphone to stream music and see song and artist information on the GTR 205 display, as well as play, pause, skip or repeat tracks without needing to access the device. Pilots can receive incoming calls, view phone numbers, end calls and see the device’s signal strength and battery life on the display.
The new audio panel features are expected to be available in the second quarter of 2025. Existing GTR 205 and GTR 205x COMM radios can be upgraded via an optional enablement available for purchase on flyGarmin.com or through Garmin authorized dealers.
For more information: Garmin.com/AircraftAudio
It’s about time Garmin updated the certificated model of the 205 to like capabilities as the experimental version which already had those functions. Why software version V2.22 has to loaded to do the two place intercom + update eludes me. As I understand it, the four place ++ capabilities will also be via a software update that is to cost $1500 and will be released in May. That’s a bit steep, I’d say. Garmin is starting to go the way that King did back in the 90’s … they’d better calm down with their prices.