Mammut Barryvox S Beacon Review

Whether I’m ski guiding or leading avalanche safety courses, the Mammut Barryvox S is my favorite avalanche transceiver. I’ve used this device since 2019 without any issues or recalls, and it operates like a new unit. Whether you’re a new user, professional user or anywhere in between, this avalanche transceiver is for you.

Right out of the box, with its factory settings, the Mammut Barryvox S is ready for most users. With a small amount of training and practice, you can become proficient using the device in a short amount of time. The buttons and slider switch are glove and mitten friendly. When you power up the Mammut Barryvox S, the avalanche transceiver completes a self diagnostic test and displays the current version of firmware. The group check feature is also accessible from the startup screen. This feature allows users to facilitate a group check without the hassle of the transceiver staying locked onto the first person’s device and effectively runs a range test. The 70 meter search strip width allows you to acquire a signal quickly. The search strip distance is displayed in the top left side of the screen. A really nice feature is the electronic interference warning. If you have your Barryvox S too close to other electronics, the displayed distance will change to 20 meters and a phone icon with a line through it will appear on the screen. This is your indicator that you are experiencing electronic interference which could be from your phone, radio, POV cameras, or heated gloves.

The Barryvox S also has an easy to use flagging function. There are other avalanche transceivers on the market that don’t have a true flagging function. Flagging is useful in multiple burial situations. It allows you to silence the signal from one device after you have located it to make it easier to locate the next closest signal. Another great feature on this transceiver is that the firmware is updateable. This can be performed from device to device or can be done at a Mammut dealer. The dealer can also test the avalanche transceiver to make sure it’s operating on the proper radio frequency, which can drift over time. Since this device’s firmware can be updated and the frequency can be tested, the transceiver can have a long use life. The Barryvox S also has additional features and modes that can be useful as your comfort level with the device and your level of expertise increases. This is definitely an advantage and will save you money over time by not having to replace your transceiver as often.

For professionals or aspiring professionals, this transceiver should be top on your list. The pro check mode allows you to check the frequencies of the other transceivers in your group to make sure everyone’s device is operating properly. The Barryvox S also has an analog mode, which is extremely useful in a close proximity multiple burial situation. This feature will allow you to hear the different sounds when you are close to two or more devices. Within the pro settings, you can toggle between all buried subjects to help you determine where to search next.

These are just a few of the main features that I have come to love about this device. The Mammut Barryvox S is a high-quality, professional tool that I can’t imagine heading into the field without.

Justin Studt
AMGA Apprentice Ski, Alpine, & Rock Guide
American Avalanche Institute Course Leader

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