Garmin Panoptix LiveScope transducer: see the fish as it is

Less than one year after launching the new Garmin Panoptix LiveScope System – an echosounder that shows you the underwater world in real time, with hi-res moving images – Garmin Marine has just introduced for 2019 the new Panoptix LiveScope LVS12 transducer.

Compared to the Panoptix LiveScope LVS32 launched in mid-2018, the LVS12 transducer does not need a black box and allows you to see the LiveScope Down and LiveScope Forward functions simultaneously.

It is then possible to create a complete visual spectrum under and in front of the boat (hence the Down and Forward definitions) in a single screen, with real-time, very high definition images that show the fish in their real morphology and moving like a video.

Watch the video to understand what we
are talking about

All this is possible regardless of sea conditions. An efficient integrated sensor, called AHRS, will always show you an oasis of peace and tranquility below the water line, even if on the surface you are shaken and stirred by the waves.

With the new LVS12, Garmin Panoptix LiveScope system gives the choice between two transducers. Let’s see the main differences then.

Garmin Panoptix LiveScope LVS32

LVS32 needs a black box and is compatible with most of the Garmin GpsMap and EchoMap plotters (GpsMap Series: 8400, 7400, 1022/1222, 722/922/1222 Touch – EchoMap Plus Series: 72cv/72sv and 92sv).

Garmin Panoptix LiveScope LVS12

LVS12 does not need a black box and allows to see simultaneously or separately the Down and Forward functions, by simply operating the plotter and not the manual setting of the transducer. The down side is, it is compatible only with top-end plotters.

So in the end Panoptix LiveScope LVS12 is more advanced and cheaper (indicative price is € 490 + VAT) but it interacts only with the rather expensive GpsMap 8400 xsv and EchoMap Ultra.

The LiveScope Down function as seen on GpsMap 8410xsv

The LiveScope Forward function as seen on GpsMap 8416xsv

Panoptix LiveScope LVS32 costs almost four times as much – indicatively € 1640 + VAT – but makes it possible to save money on the plotter, or even to keep the one already installed on your boat. The choice is on you!

In both cases, the plug-and-play connector minimizes the installation and integration procedures with compatible Garmin Marine chartplotters. And, speaking of compatibility, let’s not forget the access to the Garmin Marine Network, which allows you to share images among the other plotters connected to the network.