Sulphur speciation in volcanic gases acts as a major redox buffer, and H2S/SO2 ratios represent a valuable indicator of magmatic conditions and interactions between magmatic and hydrothermal fluids. However, measurement of H2S/SO2 even by direct sampling techniques, is not straightforward. We7 report here on application of a small ultraviolet spectrometer for real-time field measurement of H2S and SO2 concentrations, using open-path and extractive configurations. The device was tested at fumaroles on Solfatara and Vulcano, Italy, in November 2002. H2S concentrations of up to 220 ppmm (400 ppmv) were measured directly above the Bocca Grande fumarole at Solfatara, and H2S/SO2 molar ratios of 2 and 2.4, respectively, were determined for the 'F11' and 'F0' fumaroles at Vulcano. In comparison with other optical techniques capable of multiple volcanic gas measurements, such as laser and FTIR spectroscopy, this approach is considerably simpler and cheaper, with the potential for autonomous, sustained high-time resolution operation.