The Sonik Gizmo 2 bite alarms are designed for carp anglers who want plenty of functionality, a fast wireless connection, and a sleek look without going straight to the top-end segment. Sonik has improved several parts of the previous generation in the Gizmo 2, including the speakers, battery life, controls, and communication with the receiver.
You also get familiar Sonik features like multicolor LEDs, the clever mute function, various tone and volume settings, and an anti-theft alarm. The result is a complete bite alarm set that clearly stands above a basic entry-level kit.
What do you get with a Sonik Gizmo 2 bite alarm set?
The Sonik Gizmo 2 is available in various configurations. Depending on the chosen set, you get two, three, or four bite alarms combined with one receiver. Each bite alarm comes with a protective cap.
At launch, complete sets were also announced with a new bivvy lamp. This lamp is designed to work with the bite alarm system and can be used inside the tent as an additional visual indicator and light source.
The introductory prices mentioned in the original presentation were:
- Sonik Gizmo 2 2+1 set: 259.95
- Sonik Gizmo 2 3+1 set: 329.95
- Sonik Gizmo 2 4+1 set: 389.00
Current prices may vary, so always check the latest product info for the up-to-date retail price and availability.
Magnetic protective cap with automatic on/off function
One of the smartest features of the Sonik Gizmo 2 is the magnetic protective cap. The cap protects the bite alarm during transport but also plays a role in its operation.
When you remove the protective cap, the magnetic contact breaks and the bite alarm switches on. Putting the cap back on turns the bite alarm off again. This means you don’t have to switch each bite alarm on or off individually with a small button.
For carp anglers who regularly rig up and pack down their gear, this is a practical feature. The cap protects the bite alarm and also ensures it doesn’t stay on unnecessarily during transport.
Multicolor LEDs on the Sonik Gizmo 2
The Gizmo 2 features multicolor LEDs. This means you’re not limited to one fixed color per bite alarm. You can choose which color you want to use for each rod.
The set LED color is automatically communicated to the receiver. For example, if you set the bite alarm on your left rod to blue, you’ll also see the corresponding blue indication on the receiver during a bite.
You can also adjust the brightness of the LEDs. Various settings are available so you don’t have to fish with very bright lights during a dark night.
Adjustable LED brightness and stealth mode
The Sonik Gizmo 2 offers multiple levels of LED brightness. You can choose between soft, medium, or bright lighting.
The Gizmo 2 also features a stealth mode. This lets you switch off the constant illumination. The bite alarm will still visually respond during an actual bite.
For carp anglers who want as little unnecessary light around their rods as possible, this is a welcome feature.
Improved speaker and adjustable tone
Sonik has upgraded the speaker of the Gizmo 2. It now uses a cone speaker that produces a fuller and clearer sound than the previous Gizmo generation.
Additionally, you can adjust the pitch. This way, you can distinguish between different bite alarms by sound alone, even when you’re not directly looking at the LEDs.
The volume is also adjustable. This allows you to tailor the bite alarms to the environment and your personal preference.
Different sound for a run and back-run
The Gizmo 2 can distinguish between different types of line movement. A run where a carp takes line is indicated differently than a back-run where the line slackens.
This helps you understand more quickly what’s happening at your rod, even before you actually reach your rod pod or banksticks.
Smart mute function for moving your rod
One of the most useful features of the Sonik Gizmo 2 is the smart mute function. This allows you to temporarily silence the bite alarm when, for example, you want to reposition your rod, attach your swinger, or adjust your drag.
After activation, the bite alarm remains silent for about 30 seconds. After that, it automatically switches back to normal operation.
If you finish earlier, you can manually switch off the mute function. This prevents unnecessary beeps without the risk of forgetting to turn the bite alarm back on.
FM connection with range up to approximately 200 meters
An important technical improvement of the Gizmo 2 is the use of an FM connection between the bite alarms and the receiver. As soon as the bite alarm registers a signal, it is almost immediately transmitted to the receiver.
According to the original product presentation, the range under suitable conditions is up to approximately 200 meters. In practice, actual range can be affected by vegetation, obstacles, buildings, and other conditions.
For normal use around a bivvy or during a carp session, this offers more than enough range.
Sonik Gizmo 2 receiver
The included receiver has various functions that complete the system. On top is the power switch, and on the front, you’ll find controls for volume, memory, and synchronization.
The receiver communicates one-on-one with the paired bite alarms. When a bite alarm goes off, sound and LED indication respond almost instantly on the receiver.
Memory function on the receiver
With the memory function, you can check which bite alarm last gave a signal. This is handy when you weren’t right next to your rods or when you wake up at night and can’t quite remember which rod had activity.
After activating the memory function, the corresponding channel softly lights up. This way, you immediately see which bite alarm sent the last signal.
Built-in light on the receiver
The receiver also features a small built-in light. It’s not meant to replace a powerful headlamp but provides enough light to quickly find your boots, bivvy door, or headlamp during a night bite.
By holding down the respective button, you can easily switch the light on and off.
Three AAA batteries for extended battery life
The Sonik Gizmo 2 bite alarms run on three AAA batteries. Special attention was also given to extending battery life during the development of the receiver.
AAA batteries are also easy to find. Still, it’s wise to always keep an extra set of batteries in your tackle box during longer sessions.
Anti-theft alarm
The magnetic cap makes the system very user-friendly, but Sonik has also considered security. If someone tries to switch off an active bite alarm or remove it from the setup, the system can send an anti-theft signal via the receiver.
This makes the magnetic control practical without the alarm being easily switched off unnoticed.
What’s the difference between the Sonik Gizmo 2 and SKS2?
The Gizmo 2 is positioned above the Sonik SKS2. Both systems offer interesting features like multicolor LEDs and the smart mute function, but the Gizmo 2 pays extra attention to the speaker, FM communication, magnetic protective caps, and overall finish.
If you’re mainly after a sharp price, you might lean towards the SKS2. But if you want a more luxurious and technically advanced Sonik bite alarm, the Gizmo 2 is the better choice.
Who are the Sonik Gizmo 2 bite alarms suitable for?
The Sonik Gizmo 2 is particularly suited for carp anglers seeking a complete wireless bite alarm set with many modern features but who don’t want to pay the premium price of the absolute top-tier alarms.
With multicolor LEDs, adjustable brightness, various tone and volume options, a smart mute function, memory, anti-theft alarm, and fast FM communication, the Gizmo 2 offers plenty of functionality for its segment.
This makes it an appealing set for both dedicated weekend anglers and carp anglers who regularly spend long nights and sessions at the water.
Sonik Gizmo 2 at CarpCentral
At CarpCentral, you'll find a wide range of Sonik Sports bite alarms and complete bite alarm sets. The Gizmo 2 is especially interesting within the Sonik range for anglers looking to step up from a basic starter set and who value control, range, and smart features.
Unsure which bite alarms to choose? At CarpCentral, you can compare different models and decide which set best suits your carp fishing style.
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