The Barryvox S2 arrives with a large Memory-in-Pixel screen which means better visibility in bright conditions (or when you are wearing those rad photochromatic lenses).
Slimmed down in weight and profile but still the more-than-full-featured avalanche transceiver we expect: The Barryvox S2 first look—the unboxing.
Many of us here at THR have relied on the Barryvox S avalanche transceiver for years. Barryvox released the S2 this season, an updated and more refined version of the company’s pro-level go-to model.
We have been anticipating this update. Yet, in early November, Mammut/Barryvox conducted a voluntary recall due to a potential switch malfunction. The voluntary recall noted, “The potential malfunction is based on an assembly issue. As a result, the main switch on the affected devices may be misaligned leading to unintentional switching from Send to Search mode with lateral pressure, or possibly even turning the device off completely.”
According to the Mammut/Barryvox site, “Devices sold on Mammut.com from 11/19/2024 onwards have been checked and are not affected by the Nov 2024 recall.” With a fix now in place, we received the new Barryvox S2, took some basic measurements, and will hand the unit off to Gavin in Wilson, Wyoming. But, first thing is first. The switch malfunction does appear remedied. When the on/off-send/search switch was locked in send mode, I could not get it to budge. (This was a living room test.)
The other question many backcountry tourists are asking is if they should drop money on a new Barryvox transceiver. Running through the features of both the new S2 and S would be a much longer discussion. As far as basics, Mammut/Barryvox has a fine, short video explaining the general differences between the older Barryvox S and the new Barryvox S2. We’ll list out the primary differences noted in the video.
- Barryvox S2 has a slightly larger Memory-in-Pixel screen, providing better contrast in bright conditions.
- The overall size and weight of the Barryvox S2 is reduced. The S2 uses two AAA batteries, whereas the Barryvox S uses three. Barryvox claims there is no reduction in running hours (Barryvox says the running time of the new beacon, despite a reduction in batteries, is longer than the Barryvox S.)
- The Barryvox S2 uses Bluetooth technology for firmware updates, and one can adjust settings by communicating with the Barryvox mobile app. Bluetooth also allows the new transceiver to be used with the Barryvox beacon parks. The older Barryvox S used “W Link” for diagnostic testing, etc.
Out of the box, the reduced size and weight are noticeable. Those transitioning from the Barryvox S to the S2 and wearing the unit in a beacon-specific pant pocket will likely celebrate the reduced profile and mass .
- The Barryvox S with leash and 3 x AAA batteries weighs 212g
- The Barryvox S2 with leash and 2 x AAA batteries weighs 185g
- The additional chest carrier for the new S2 weighs 120g.
- The Barryvox S2 (using the THR calipers) has dimensions of 115mm x 68mm x 21mm.
- The Barryvox S (using the THR calipers) has dimensions of 113mm x 68mm x 26mm.
The new Barryvox S2 (left) adjacent the go-to for many, the Barryvox S (right).
The side view comparison: the Barryvox S2 (left) is slimmer and saves you roughly 40g in overall weight.
You can find more information about these transceivers’ similarities and differences and the more basic (yet new) Barryvox 2 and older Barryvox 1 models here. The new Barryvox S2 does have voice commands during search mode, similar to the Ortovox Diract Voice. However, we can only assume some legal wrangling behind the scenes; this feature remains unavailable in units sold in several European countries and the U.S.
There are more than a few things to consider when purchasing a transceiver. A unit like the Barryvox S2, loaded up feature-wise for the most advanced user, must also have the basics dialed for the rest of us. Once Gavin has this in hand, he’ll look at the functionality and accuracy of the unit’s core features, including the following:
- This unit has what Barryvox calls Interference Guard, which claims to detect and adjust for EMI affecting the unit. EMI, or electromagnetic interference, can impact a transceiver’s capacity to receive and communicate accurate signal acquisition and distance to a potential victim.
- Accuracy/nuances of initial signal acquisition when the “send” transceiver is placed in different orientations. Barryvox claims a transmit and search range of 70 meters.
- Accuracy of the unit’s fine search mode.
- Effectiveness of the unit’s deep burial mode.
- Nuances of the unit’s Rescue-SEND and auto-revert to SEND modes.
Buckle up. The Barryvox S2 retails for ~$600.00.
