Unrivalled audio quality at sea
Where the new Apollo RA800 stands out is in the quality of its audio. It’s Garmin’s first Fusion stereo to support high-resolution, lossless audio—up to 24-bit/96kHz playback—giving onboard playlists and streaming services new depth and clarity. That’s paired with a Class-D amplifier delivering 4 x 40W RMS (with peak output up to 320W), capable of driving four full-range speakers with less than 0.1% total harmonic distortion. Compared with its predecessor, the RA770, the RA800 delivers 50% more power, making it a clear choice for boaters wanting better sound without adding external amplifiers.
Connectivity where it counts
Garmin has ensured the RA800 integrates seamlessly into existing onboard tech. It connects via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, NMEA 2000®, and ANT®, with improved Apple AirPlay® streaming providing a superior high-fidelity option for iOS users.
Importantly, the RA800 can also link into the Garmin Marine Network, allowing control directly from compatible Garmin multifunction displays (MFDs). For those using Fusion’s free audio app, the stereo can be managed remotely via smartphone or even a compatible Garmin smartwatch.
Stereo Grouping—a standout feature for large vessels—lets users sync multiple Apollo units and share audio sources across different zones on the boat. So you can keep the same track playing seamlessly from cockpit to cabin.
Drop-in simplicity
Installation is straightforward. The RA800 uses the same mounting footprint and wiring connections as the RA770 and RA670, allowing for drop-in replacement with no need to drill new holes or rewire existing set-ups. This not only reduces installation cost and time, but also gives existing Fusion users a strong incentive to upgrade.
Durable, bright, and built for boats
Weighing in at just 750g, the RA800 carries an IPX7 rating on the front face and IPX2 on the rear, providing suitable protection against marine elements when properly installed. A 4.3” LCD touchscreen—enhanced for readability in bright sunlight—gives full control and album art display, backed by a processor eight times faster than the previous model for quicker response and smoother navigation.
The unit supports an operating range between 0 to 50°C, making it more than capable of handling the harsh marine climate in New Zealand. Its compact footprint and robust build cater directly to real-world boating conditions.
A strategic move to own the premium segment
Priced at $1,799 NZD, the Apollo RA800 competes at the upper end of the market—well above rivals like JL Audio’s MediaMaster 55 stereo (around NZD $659)—but it justifies that price with its top-tier feature set and seamless integration into the wider Garmin ecosystem. Rather than targeting volume sales, Garmin is aiming for margin, performance, and prestige—offering a product that speaks directly to serious skippers and discerning boat owners.
Susan Lyman, Garmin’s Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing, summarised the pitch well:
“With the new Apollo RA800 on board, boaters and passengers can hear their music with unrivalled clarity, plus, with an internal amplifier that produces 50% more power than its predecessor, users can keep the beat going strong all day and night.”
With the RA800, Garmin has made a strong play to consolidate its dominance in marine electronics—not just with plotters and sonar, but now firmly in onboard entertainment. For boaters who value powerful, detailed sound and want gear that matches the rest of their Garmin suite, the Apollo RA800 is likely to become the new standard.
Available now via Garmin stockists nationwide, with shipping lead times currently listed at 5–8 weeks. For more information, currently listed at 5–8 weeks. For more information, visit Garmin New Zealand’s website.
