Comments on: Gear Review: Pieps DSP Pro Avalanche Beacon

By: Frank Konsella

Frank Konsella — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 15:15:06 +0000

Andy,

Thanks for the comment! Good point on the group check mode, thanks for mentioning it.

I have not had any issues with the harness as you describe (but see below). I don’t know why that is, because Brittany has the exact same problems that you describe. I guess if you have the length just right, you might want to tape or even sew it in place. Brittany also thinks that the harness is too bulky and gives her the dreaded “third boob” in an unflattering way. But she hates all harnesses.

I’ve actually been using the Pieps pocket on my Black Diamond pants this season. I don’t think I’ll ever use a harness again if I can help it. Keeping the beacon in my pants is probably safer (since it’s never on the outside), and it’s easier to reach when it’s actually time to start a beacon search. But mostly, it’s just a lot more comfortable. No more straps interfering with my pack, or digging into my neck. Plus I’m a HUGE weight weenie 😉 so I’m stoked on all those grams I’m saving by forgoing a harness.

By: Andy Thien

Andy Thien — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 04:34:10 +0000

Great review, Frank. My wife and I just upgraded to this beacon. I mostly agree with all of your points above. I have two things to add:
1. I actually find the group beacon check mode useful. With the restricted search range of just a meter in check mode, it’s convenient to check everyone in our party without forcing everyone to spread out.
2. I’ve been very unhappy with the harness. I agree that the beacon compartment on the harness is very nice, as you described. However, neither my wife nor I can get the length adjustment of the shoulder loop to work properly. Setting it to a desired length is cumbersome because three straps have to be equalized. Plus, the loop loosens throughout the course of the day, leaving it dangling so far that it eventually interferes with my pack’s waist strap. In particular, the buckle itself slides down super easily. Have you encountered any of these issues?

By: Frank Konsella

Frank Konsella — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 04:03:10 +0000

In reply to Ben. Thanks Ben!

By: Ben

Ben — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 21:08:46 +0000

Agreed, Frank. I had a minor warranty claim on my Pieps DSP and the good folks over there hooked me up with a new DSP Pro to replace it – no questions asked. I am very grateful. Also, I like how the selector slider switch is more secure in this newer model, and I don’t have to worry about it moving when going in and out of the harness.