New Direction Bite Alarms Problems

The world of angling gear has seen many developments over the years. One particular area that has sparked controversy among anglers is the New Direction (ND) bite alarms. Feedback from various users on forums has painted a somewhat mixed picture. Let’s dive deeper into the community’s sentiments about the ND alarms and evaluate potential solutions to the issues raised.

A Look at the ND Alarms

Many anglers had initially been drawn to ND’s K9s alarms for their advanced features. However, the feedback on these alarms, especially from seasoned users, has not always been glowing. In fact, many have opted for more basic models like JRCs after reading reviews on forums.

On the contrary, there are some who swear by ND’s bite alarms. Users have commended their advanced features, like adjusting sensitivity on windy nights or changing the volume based on surrounding noises. Once familiar with the interface, users have found it easy to navigate, often within mere seconds.

Dissenting Voices

The problem arises with the inconsistency in product quality. Many anglers have had negative experiences with the K9s alarms, mentioning issues such as:

• The receiver malfunctioning within the first two months of use.
• The alarms being overly sensitive and triggering at slight movements.
• The lack of after-sales support from ND, even when users were willing to pay for repairs.

Additionally, many have found the phone app linked to the alarms to be more of a novelty than a useful feature. The app is often criticized for its poor functionality, with users noting that they would prefer simpler controls on the alarm head itself.

Quality control seems to be a recurring issue with ND’s products. Many anglers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the overall product quality and have since switched back to other recognized brands, such as Fox or Delkim.

The Great Battery Debate

One discussion that arose was the debate on batteries. The S9s from ND are rechargeable and can link with ND lights. While some users appreciate the rechargeable aspect, others feel it’s unnecessary since batteries in alarms tend to last a long time. During lockdown, however, some anglers found their battery consumption increased, leading them to prefer rechargeable options.

In contrast, some believe that rechargeable alarms are not a practical choice because if they run out mid-session, you can’t simply swap out batteries. There’s a strong inclination towards bite alarms that show power indications, helping users gauge when a replacement is due.

In Search of Alternatives

For those still on the fence about which alarms to purchase, some anglers have recommended the Fox Mini Micron X 2-Rod Set as a solid alternative. It’s slightly above the budget range of some ND models but comes highly recommended by many.

The Curious Case of the Discontinued K9s

The K9 model, which had garnered significant attention for its USB rechargeable feature, seems to have been pulled from major retailers like Amazon. Some forum members highlighted that production of the K9 ceased in 2019, replaced by the newer K9s model. There’s caution against trusting Amazon reviews, as they might not always present the full picture.

In Conclusion

Like any product, the ND bite alarms have their supporters and critics. While their advanced features are commendable, it’s evident that consistent quality control is an area needing improvement. For potential buyers, it’s always wise to conduct thorough research, read various reviews, and weigh the pros and cons before making an investment in any fishing gear.