What's the difference between audio-ready and built-in audio helmets?

Audio-ready helmets have ear pads with pockets designed to accept drop-in speaker systems (like Outdoor Tech Chips or Smith Audio), but the speakers are sold separately. Built-in audio helmets come with speakers permanently installed in the ear pads. Audio-ready is more common and more flexible — you can choose your preferred audio system, replace speakers if they fail, and swap to non-audio ear pads when you don't want speakers. Built-in audio is simpler but less flexible and often has lower audio quality than aftermarket options.