Unboxing And Installing The Mini Blast Boat Horn

The Compact Electric Black Mini Blast Boat Horn is a small, yet powerful horn that is perfect for boats. With a dB(A) rating of 106 at one meter, this horn will ensure you are heard out on the water. The horn is made with a non-corrosive ASA plastic cover and a sealed sound unit with a stainless steel diaphragm. It is also easy to install, with a mounting bracket that can be used as a wiring template. Simply ensure that the horn is mounted slightly downward to permit water drainage.

Installation instructions

The Marinco 12V MiniBlast Compact Single Horn is a powerful and durable electric horn that is perfect for boats. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing this horn on your boat:

• Prepare the mounting location: Ensure that you have selected an appropriate location for the horn on your boat's deck. The horn should be mounted slightly downward to permit water drainage. Mark the mounting holes using the mounting bracket as a template.
• Drill the mounting holes: Carefully drill the marked holes, ensuring they are large enough to accommodate the mounting hardware.
• Install the mounting bracket: Position the mounting bracket over the drilled holes and secure it in place using the provided hardware. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the correct torque settings.
• Connect the wiring: The horn requires a 12V power source. Connect the horn's wires to the power source, following the wiring diagram provided with the horn. Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and insulated.
• Attach the horn: Place the horn onto the mounting bracket and secure it in place. Ensure that the horn is firmly attached and cannot move or vibrate during use.
• Test the horn: Once the horn is installed, test it to ensure it is functioning correctly. The horn should produce a loud, clear sound with a dB(A) rating of 106 at one meter.
• Final adjustments: Check that the horn is securely mounted and that all connections are tight. Ensure there are no obstructions to the horn's sound.

By following these installation instructions, you can confidently and safely install the Marinco 12V MiniBlast Compact Single Horn on your boat, enhancing your safety and enjoyment on the water.

Sound quality

The sound quality of the Compact Electric Black Mini Blast Boat Horn has been praised by many customers. They describe the horn as "loud enough" and praise its "good tone" that will "carry well over water". One review states that the horn is "plenty loud", although the reviewer only gave the noise level 4 out of 5 stars because it is either "too loud or not loud enough".

The horn has a dB(A) rating of 106 at one meter (3 feet) and a fundamental frequency of 440+/-20Hz. It has been described as having a nice total quality and good sound.

The horn is available in both black and white, with the white version having slightly more positive reviews. One review states that the black version is "poorly made" and "emits a weak, rattling, raspy croak", while another says it is "wimpy". However, other reviews describe the horn as having an "attractive housing" and "beautiful looking".

Overall, the sound quality of the Compact Electric Black Mini Blast Boat Horn is generally well-regarded by customers, who find it loud and effective, with a good tone.

Appearance

The AFI MiniBlast Compact Electric Boat Horn is available in black or white. The horn is encased in a non-corrosive ASA plastic cover, with a sealed sound unit and a stainless steel diaphragm. The horn is pre-wired and operates at 12 volts, with a maximum amp draw of 3 amps. The dB(A) rating is 106 at one meter, and the frequency is 440±20A. The horn measures 3-3/8" wide, 2" high, and 4¾" long.

The horn's appearance is sleek and compact, designed to be mounted above the deck of a boat. The black cover gives it a subtle and unobtrusive look, while the white cover option offers a more visible and traditional horn appearance. The horn is designed to be functional and durable, with the stainless steel components providing protection from marine environments and corrosion.

The Sea-Dog Max Blast Single Mini Compact Horn is constructed of injection-molded housing under a stamped 304 stainless steel cover, which also protects the internal components from corrosion. This horn is slightly larger, measuring 3" long, 3-1/4" wide, and 1-3/4" high. It produces a sound of 108 decibels and meets the US Coast Guard's COLREGS and ABYC standard A-23 for vessels under 12m (39').

The Marinco 12V MiniBlast Compact Single Horn is another option that comes in either black or white. This horn has a long-lasting, non-corrosive ASA plastic cover and a sealed sound unit with a stainless steel diaphragm. It measures 4.375" long, 3.375" wide, and 2" high. While specific decibel ratings are not provided, it is designed to produce a loud and clear sound.

The appearance of these compact electric boat horns varies slightly, with different colours and sizes available. However, they all feature durable and corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring functionality and longevity in marine environments.

Durability

The durability of the compact electric black mini blast boat horn is a concern for some customers. While some reviews mention that the horn has a solid construction, great material, and beautiful appearance, others have noted that it feels cheaply made and is prone to rusting out internally.

The horn's shell is made of plastic, which can be beneficial for water resistance, but it may also break if bumped hard. One reviewer mentioned that their horn lasted close to two years, while another's horn lasted less than five months.

The Marinco 10099 12V MiniBlast Compact Single Horn with White Cover features a long-lasting, non-corrosive ASA plastic cover and a sealed sound unit with a stainless steel diaphragm. The stainless steel diaphragm and mounting bracket in the Marinco Compact Electric Horn's ABS, triple chrome-plated housing are also worth noting.

The Sea-Dog Max Blast Single Mini Compact Horn is constructed with injection-molded housing under a stamped 304 stainless steel cover, which protects the internal components from corrosion. After a 600-hour salt spray test, this horn remained rust-free. It also comes with a five-year rust-free warranty.

The stainless steel mini compact electric boat horn by Marinco is cased in type 304 stainless steel, providing excellent protection from marine environments.

Overall, while some customers have expressed concerns about the durability of compact electric mini blast boat horns, others have found them to be long-lasting and well-protected from the elements.

Materials

The Compact Electric Black Mini Blast Boat Horn is made from a variety of materials, each serving a specific purpose and function. Here is a detailed breakdown of the materials used in this boat horn:

Housing and Cover Materials:

The horn's housing is constructed from injection-moulded material, which is then covered by stamped 304 stainless steel. This type of stainless steel is known for its excellent protection against corrosion, a crucial feature for a marine environment. The stainless steel cover shields the internal components from the elements, helping to prevent rust and ensuring the horn's longevity.

Internal Components:

The internal components of the horn are also designed to withstand the harsh marine conditions. The diaphragm, a crucial component for sound projection, is made from 18-8 stainless steel, which offers similar corrosion resistance to the 304 variant. This material choice ensures the horn maintains its performance over time.

Mounting Bracket:

The mounting bracket serves two purposes. Firstly, it provides a secure attachment point for the horn, ensuring it stays firmly in place despite vibrations or rough seas. Secondly, the mounting bracket doubles as a wiring template, simplifying the installation process. This bracket is made from durable materials to withstand the marine environment and provide a stable base for the horn.

Other Materials:

The horn also features a non-corrosive ASA plastic cover, which further protects the internal components from the elements. This cover is available in black or white, allowing for a degree of customisation to match the aesthetics of your boat.

Overall, the materials used in the construction of the Compact Electric Black Mini Blast Boat Horn are chosen for their durability and resistance to corrosion. These materials ensure the horn functions effectively in the challenging marine environment, providing reliable performance and a long service life.

Frequently asked questions