HDS 12 Gen 3 Transducer question. Structure scan or 3d?

[Dougfish]

Hello,
I have a newbie question as I just switched to Lowrance from another brand. I purchased the HDS 12, Gen 3. It came with the basic 83/200 transducer, but I want side and down imaging at a minimum. I am not sure if there are different levels of HDS Gen 3, more specifically, Can I use either the LSS2, Total Scan, or 3d transducer on my unit?

If my unit does have the capability, is the 3d worth the extra money? Or would you recommend LSS2, or total scan transducer. It probably isn't a difficult question, but it's a little confusing when switching over and not familiar with the product.

Thank you for your help,

[bosco1]

From what I’ve gathered, most guys in bass boats are using a dedicated 2d sonar transducer and also a LSS-2 for side and down imaging. The TotalScan ducer gives you 2d sonar, down imaging and side imaging but tends to lose bottom contact (2d sonar) at higher speeds because of mounting difficulties with the TotalScan. I can’t help on the 3D stuff. Your Gen 3 unit can run any of the ducers you mentioned. Here is a video I found that helps with Lowrance transducers.

[Dougfish]

Thank you, that is a great video. Now I just need to decide if the 3d is worth the extra $700. Haha

[Marc]

The 3D is worth the extra dollars, but mainly for the 2D sidescan which is outstanding with the 3D Transducer and 3D Box. What I am saying is that the 2D SideScan is really good, but the 3D SideScan is awesome and worth it if you can afford it and like the best possible pictures. Additionally, there is a place and time for the 3D views as well, but takes some seat time to figure these out.

ciao,
Marc

[Ken Sauret]

The left, right and down views on a 3D transducer are clearer and stronger that on an LSS-2 transducer. The side views on a 3D transducer will see more detail and produce a picture further out from the boat since there is more value in this transducer.

Marc is correct about it being worth the extra money to get a 3D Structure Scan transducer over the Lowrance Structure Scan (LSS) 2 transducer.