Simple, Reliable Backup Provides Affordable Peace of Mind

Sporty's showed off the newest addition to their radio lineup with the L6, a handheld aviation radio capable of connecting directly to LEMO headset connections.

The new kit hits a spot in the market usually occupied by finicky dongles, adapters, and kludges, with most handhelds being compatible with U-174 military or 2-plug GA connectors - all too often, the LEMO market is left out in the cold. Perhaps out of the idea that any LEMO-equipped aircraft is pricey enough to have its own in-built backup radios. With the L6, it's simple plug and play, with the same pilot-centric, intelligent menu flows seen on the rest of the Sporty's radio lineup. Unlike some affordable aviation radios, the Sporty's team has the time and talent to take it out and test it in actual flight - a small touch that becomes apparent after living with a no-name for a few years.

The updated L6 still sports the same niceties that made previous entries popular too, like a 3.5mm jack for garden variety headphones, NOAA stations, 20 memory channels, flip-flop buttons, and a large, roomy backlit screen. Transmit power is a respectable 6 watts peak, boosting range in a pinch.

“The L6 is made exclusively for pilots – there are no menus, no wires, and no adapters,” said Sporty’s Director of Aviation Products and Marketing Doug Ranly. “Dedicated volume and squelch knobs are easy to adjust, even in turbulence, and the high contrast, extra-large screen and backlit keypad make a big difference during an emergency.”

“We believe regular AA batteries are the best choice for backup use, but the ability to power the L6 with a USB-C cable is a convenient option,” said Ranly. “From Sentry ADS-B receivers to iPad Pros, this cable is increasingly common in aircraft.”

FMI: www.sportys.com