A couple of new GPS equipped PLB's

Haven't see any discussion of these models yet:

http://www.gme.net.au/epirb/mt410.php

The GME MT410G has just recently become available in Australia, you can get them for $589 (AUD), for comparison the ACR Aquafix is available at that price here too.

http://www.kti.com.au/minisat406gps.htm

The KTI Mini-Sat 406Mhz PLB is not yet available (awaiting regulatory approval). The inbuilt signaling mirror is an interesting addition.

Both of these models are significantly lighter than either the Aquafix or ResQFix. They're all different shapes so it's hard to tell how pocketable they would be from the overall dimensions.

It's great to see some competition in the market for compact, light PLB's. I'll probably wind up getting the GME, will post photos & impressions if I do.

The GME PLBs are now available in the U.S. and pricing seems comparable to the ACR MicrOfix line. I have a non-transmitting unit to play with and will be doing a write-up fairly soon, as time allows. It is lighter than the ACR MicrOfix, different form factor and there are some issues I am investigating before I publish anything.

This is great news. No-matter how good the ACR offerings, competition in this market will hopefully drive pricing. Increased awareness will also drive volume for all manufacturers, which should also help with pricing.

I have a MicrOFix, 'cause it was the smallest available at the time of purchase, but I have a lot of friends for whom the barrier to entry isn't size or weight, but pricing.