New to Lowrance - few questions on purchasing a new setup

Moderator: Ken Sauret

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Dagmandt
Posts: 14
Joined: Sun Nov 30, 2014 8:01 am

New to Lowrance - few questions on purchasing a new setup

Post by Dagmandt »

Hi guys,

I'm switching from a couple of HB 597 HD DI units to Lowrance with structure scan. I have read the first 7 pages of this forum and got some of my answers. I'm trying to set up a bow/console system with the intention of networking them via Ethernet. I like the HDS7 gen 2 touch for the console but am undecided at the bow between the HDS5 gen 2 or HDS7 gen 2 non-touch. Price is a concern as I'm trying to stay under $1,500 which may be impossible for both units. I found a HDS7 gen2 touch with LSS2 at a local shop for $1,200 but with the bow unit, Ethernet cable, and sonar transducer I'm way over budget. I am strictly fresh water mostly fishing for bass. My boat is a 97 Skeeter.


Below are the remaining questions I have if someone can help.

1. I believe I need an LSS2 and separate sonar transducer correct?
2. Which sonar transducer should I consider? Is through hull worth ripping out my gas tank to install or just go with transom mount?
3. Is sharing the transom transducers for the bow unit ok for a while? I understand there will be an 18' or so difference between what I'm seeing and marking on the unit. I suppose having the bow unit use the console GPS would get a more accurate mark in that situation since I don't want to spend $$ on duplicate transducers. Any advice here would be great.


Did I miss anything?
Thanks,
Darren
Ken Sauret
Posts: 776
Joined: Sun Oct 18, 2009 7:39 pm
Location: Paso Robles California
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Re: New to Lowrance - few questions on purchasing a new setu

Post by Ken Sauret »

Question 1; The LSS (Lowrance Structure Scan)-2 is a completely different transducer that gives you the Down, Left and Right views of Structure Scan. The Broadband (traditional) sonar is a separate transducer that is normally in the box with the head unit.

Question 2; The Lowrance units come with a Skimmer type Broadband sonar transducer included in the box. If it is alot of trouble glueing it into the bilge area, mounted with the bracket off the transom is fine.

Question 3; Sharing the LSS-2 transducer off the transom that is connected to the console unit can be networked with the bow unit via an ethernet cable and then be viewed by both units. Many people have this set up and keep it for a long time. The new option to give you a structure scan view up on the trolling motor is Lowrance's Spotlight Scan. That can be added later if you decide you need it.
Ken Sauret
Lowrance Pro Staff
Lowrance http://www.lowrance.com/
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Dagmandt
Posts: 14
Joined: Sun Nov 30, 2014 8:01 am

Re: New to Lowrance - few questions on purchasing a new setu

Post by Dagmandt »

Thanks for the quick and thorough reply. I appreciate it. Sounds like I might have a fighting chance at staying within my budget or just above if I can get the right deals.

Thanks,
Darren
WB Staff
Posts: 12504
Joined: Thu Jan 26, 2012 10:56 am

Re: New to Lowrance - few questions on purchasing a new setu

Post by WB Staff »

C&C Marine talks about Darren's forum question

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