You might be thinking, Why do I need to spend money on wired or wireless communication when I have walkie-talkies? That's a common question we hear here at Tom Comm, and our shortest answer would be. 

Using a wireless intercom system like Riedel’s Bolero offers major advantages over traditional walkie-talkies, especially in environments where clear, efficient, and coordinated communication is essential. One key benefit is full-duplex communication, which allows users to talk and listen at the same time (similar to a phone call) rather than the one-at-a-time, push-to-talk method of walkie-talkies. This results in more natural conversations and faster decision-making. Digital intercom systems also allow for integration with external communication devices such as two-way radios, telephone lines, and IP-based systems, enabling seamless connection across different teams and platforms, whether they are working locally on-site or remotely across the world. While walkie-talkies may be suitable for simple use cases, wireless intercom systems provide the clarity, flexibility, and scalability required for demanding and dynamic operations.

A major advantage of digital intercom systems over traditional walkie-talkies is the ability to access multiple channels of communication simultaneously, all at the touch of a button. Instead of being restricted to a single shared frequency, users can instantly switch between different talk groups—such as departments, roles, or teams—without needing to change devices or compromise privacy. This is especially valuable in complex environments where multiple conversations need to happen concurrently without crosstalk. Furthermore, each beltpack can be programmed with a custom user profile, tailored specifically to the individual’s role and communication needs, so every user only hears and speaks to the people relevant to their responsibilities. Digital intercoms also offer encrypted communication, ensuring conversations remain secure and protected from unauthorized access. This level of customization, flexibility, and security makes digital intercoms a far more powerful and efficient communication tool than standard walkie-talkies.

At Tom Comm, we’re passionate about taking on special projects that step outside the traditional boundaries of live events and broadcast. We actively seek opportunities to work with industries or sectors that may not yet realise how transformative digital intercom technology can be for their operations. Whether it’s enhancing safety, improving coordination, or streamlining communication across complex teams, we believe that the power of modern intercom systems—especially when built around platforms like Riedel’s Bolero and Artist—can bring significant benefits to a wide range of environments. Our goal is to open these industries up to the possibilities that come with secure, full-duplex, and highly customisable communication.

What sets Tom Comm apart is our ability to design and build bespoke solutions tailored to each project’s unique challenges. We’re not just supplying equipment—we’re integrating communication systems across moving vehicles, remote locations, and multi-platform environments. Whether it’s enabling seamless dialogue between a control room and a mobile crew, or building cross-platform links between intercoms, two-way radios, and IP networks, we enjoy the technical complexity and creative problem-solving that comes with these kinds of jobs. For us, special projects aren’t just exciting—they’re a chance to push the limits of what intercom systems can do, and to prove how adaptable, scalable, and mission-critical these technologies can be in any setting.