The 3rd generation of Garmin's LiveScop probe is now available. The LiveScope system allows you to see echoes on the screen in real time. This way, structures, bridge piers, trees, roots, etc. can be clearly distinguished and the evolution of fish can be seen through them. Discerning the animation of your lure on the screen and seeing the fish bite offers a special adrenaline rush. This almost cinematographic vision is really additive and it is difficult to take your nose off the screen once you have tasted it.
3 versions of probe for 3 different uses
The first version of the LiveScope (still available at 1,999 euros) has a claimed range of 61 m. In reality, it works well in shallow waters (maximum 30 m). With the same range, the LiveScope Plus (2,199 euros) offers a better definition (HD) allowing a much finer distinction of target. The third generation, the new LiveScope XR offers twice the range (2,699 euros). The maximum depth is announced at 150 m! This probe is therefore more suitable for sea fishing or deep lakes.
euros note that to achieve this result, Garmin had to increase the size of the probe. If the "small" measures 13.6 x 9.6 cm, the HD model is already larger (16.2 x 75.5 cm) while the new Xr almost doubles in volume (20.2 x 9.5 cm) and even gains 2 cm more thickness (6.9 cm).
Sea tested
During the first tests that we were able to carry out in La Rochelle, we were able to discover the structure of the bridge of the Ile de Ré with its 3 characteristic supports, even while moving away from the bridge. Between the piers, fish were living and we can distinguish their behavior.
Adaptable in 3 positions
LiveScope probes fit on adjustable poles or on the foot of an electric motor. They can be installed in 3 positions to suit the type of fishing: tilted forward to see what's in front of the boat (Foward), down to see what's underneath (Down) or sideways (Perspective). The software displays one of these 3 modes automatically depending on the position of the transducer.
The sonar is also equipped with sensors that correct for boat movement. In fact, even with choppy water and a boat that rolls a bit, the image on the sounder remains fixed. It works so well, it's natural!
Already available
The LiveScope XR comes with a GLS10 black box. This black box is already used by the other LiveScope probes, so a boat already equipped with the LiveScope XR will only need to change its probe to take advantage of the new feature. Both the LiveScope XR LVS62 and the LiveScope XR system are available at a retail price of 2,410 euros (probe only) and 3,199 euros (probe and black box). The LiveScope XR is compatible with a wide range of chartplotters and Garmin GPSMAP and ECHOMAP handsets.
