Ortovox S1 Avalanche Transceiver

Ortovox just upgraded my S1 via infrared link so the software is all new and improved. It is a much cleaner functioning beacon now. The boys at the lab stepped it up by identifying the noises that aren't beacons (ie. electrical currents, radio transmissions...) and when I tested it in a very "dirty" field test the beacon performed amazingly with multiple signals active and tons of external static noise, which would typically cause any digital beacon some difficulties. Now because it ignores that extra noise the S1 hones in very accurately and quickly. This tool is undoubtedly the most advanced, dependable, reliable and easy to use beacon on the market. All the talk about it being too much of a tool is wrong and a bunch of non-sense. If u want u can just change it to all analog, but why would you when you get a graphical representation on an easy to read screen that now includes arrows to help you find and lock onto the signal, plus being able to mark that signal and move on. All the pros know ORTOVOX is it. With more then 4 different beacons transmitting a child could use this tool with ease & find everyone fast. Turn it on and follow the simple directions to the buried beacons. All others fall way behind ORTOVOX's newest and greatest avalanche safety tool, some are already copying their technology, but not successfully, the rest just don't compare. The rest of them are just spewing PR rhetoric and hype that isn't an accurate portrayal of is the real truth behind the beacons they are selling(2 antennas don't cut it for digital). Don't buy anything else, or you will have bought an antique that isn't even in compliance with the current beacon standards set by the industry. Go digital for sure and be sure you buy the best (ORTOVOX!!!). all the rest are just trying to catch up to a company that has been setting the standard now for a very long time. Try it yourself. You don't even need to read the directions, but you do have to have avalanche rescue skills and the proper equipment (ORTOVOX).

Before pocket calculators I used a slide rule to make mathematical calculations. Once you learned how to use one of these devices,the more you practiced the quicker you got results. The same can be said of previous avalanche beacons. The S1 did for me what the calculator did compared to my slide rule. In a search I get more accurate results and I get them faster. When it comes to life and death and time is of the essence, accuracy and speed are what I want from a beacon. The S1 delivers. This device is great but there is no substitite for practice.