Following the release of the larger Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 XL transducer, many anglers expected a serious response from Garmin. The company has now introduced the next generation of its live sonar system: the Garmin LiveScope 2 HD LVS42 HD and LiveScope 2 LVS44 transducers.
The main improvements include greater image detail, a wider scanning angle, and the elimination of a separate black box. Garmin is also offering two transducer versions designed for different fishing conditions.
The new Garmin transducers resemble the Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 XL in shape. Their transmitting array consists of three sections, with the outer sections positioned at an angle to form a cross-shaped configuration.
However, the scanning angle is different. In Forward mode, the new Garmin transducers provide coverage of up to 165 degrees, while the scanning angle reaches 180 degrees in Down and Perspective modes.
A 180-degree field of view in Forward mode does not always provide a practical advantage. When fishing, the angler normally points the transducer forward and tracks the lure in front of the boat. Information about what is located behind the transducer is usually unnecessary.
The situation is similar in Perspective mode. For the panoramic view to work effectively, the transducer angle must be adjusted according to the fishing depth. In deeper water, the outer sections of an extremely wide beam may be directed too high or too low. As a result, the practical difference between a 135-degree and 180-degree viewing angle may not be noticeable in every situation.
A 180-degree field of view in Down mode, however, could be genuinely useful, particularly for ice fishing.
For ice fishing, the physical size of the transducer is just as important as its viewing angle.
The Garmin LVS42 measures:
13.3 × 13.4 × 4.8 cm.
The Garmin LVS44 measures:
16 × 14.2 × 4.8 cm.
For comparison, the Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 XL measures approximately:
17.9 × 11.3 × 6.8 cm.
Even the larger LVS44 remains relatively compact. This is particularly important when ice fishing, as a large transducer can be more difficult to lower through an ice hole and rotate beneath the ice.
One of the most important changes is the elimination of the separate GLS10 module used with previous LiveScope transducers.
The new transducer connects directly to a compatible Garmin chartplotter. This simplifies installation, reduces the amount of equipment required on the boat, and frees up space in the electronics compartment.
The new transducers use a Garmin BlueNet network connection. Chartplotters equipped with the older Garmin Marine Network port can be connected through a compatible adapter cable.
Compatibility depends on the specific chartplotter model and the availability of the required network interface. Entry-level units without network connectivity will not support the new transducers.
The operating frequencies of the new transducers are particularly interesting.
The Garmin LVS42 operates within the following range:
850–1600 kHz.
The Garmin LVS44 operates within the following range:
600–1050 kHz.
For comparison:
Higher frequencies can produce a more detailed image. However, high-frequency signals lose strength more quickly in the water, which normally reduces the maximum effective range.
Lower frequencies can provide greater range, although fine-object detail may be reduced. Of course, range depends on more than frequency alone. Other factors include transmitter power, the size of the array elements, signal processing, and water conditions.
The LVS42HD is primarily intended for short- and medium-range use. With frequencies reaching 1600 kHz, it should be capable of producing highly detailed images of fish, lures, and underwater structures.
This transducer may appeal to anglers who require maximum detail at relatively short distances. Possible applications include ice fishing, vertical fishing, and precisely targeting fish close to the boat.
The main question is how noticeable the improvement will be under real fishing conditions. Additional detail is useful only when it is accompanied by a stable image and effective target separation.
The LVS44 appears to be the more versatile solution. Its operating frequencies are lower than those of the LVS42HD, so it should provide greater working range.
This model is likely to become the more popular choice for conventional boat fishing. It is better suited to locating fish at a distance, working in deeper water, and tracking a lure farther away from the boat.
Garmin claims that the LVS44 provides approximately 20% higher resolution and around 25% greater range than the previous generation. Its maximum claimed range is approximately 76 metres.
The LVS42HD focuses on improved short-range detail. Its maximum claimed range is approximately 38 metres.
The high operating frequencies of the LVS42 are interesting not only in the context of conventional LiveScope use. In theory, this transducer could produce an image with a level of detail approaching that of modern side-imaging transducers.
In the future, similar technology could be used in 360-degree scanning systems. For example, a live sonar transducer could be installed on a motorised rotating mount to scan the area surrounding the boat.
Completely replacing conventional SideScan technology would still be difficult. Side imaging produces a wide strip of bottom coverage while the boat is moving, whereas LiveScope displays real-time information only in the direction of the sonar beam.
Nevertheless, the development of high-frequency live-sonar transducers is gradually narrowing the gap between these technologies.
Garmin also claims reduced noise, improved image stabilisation, and better stitching between the individual scanning sectors.
The final point is especially important. Previous LiveScope transducers could sometimes display visible boundaries between the scanning zones. Under certain conditions, users could see lines, changes in brightness, or areas with different levels of detail.
Improved processing should produce a more consistent and natural-looking image. However, the actual result can only be evaluated through direct comparative testing on the water.
LiveScope 2 does not currently introduce any completely new operating modes. Users still have access to the three familiar options:
Although the operating modes remain unchanged, the wider scanning angle and redesigned transmitting array should alter the appearance of the image and increase the visible area.
The new models remain expensive.
The estimated price of the Garmin LVS44 is approximately $2,000, while the LVS42 is expected to cost around $2,200.
Interestingly, the larger and longer-range LVS44 is the less expensive option. At the same time, it appears to be the more versatile model for most boat-fishing conditions.
The LVS42 is aimed at users who require maximum detail at short range and are prepared to sacrifice some range in exchange for a clearer image.
The new generation of Garmin LiveScope cannot be described as a revolution, but it is still a significant update.
Removing the separate black box simplifies system installation. The wider scanning angle increases the visible area, while the availability of two transducer versions allows anglers to choose a model suited to their specific needs.
The LVS42 focuses on maximum detail and short-range performance. The LVS44 offers a more versatile balance of range, physical size, and image quality.
Only real-world testing will show how significant the improvement is compared with the LVS34 and competing systems. The physical limitations of sonar technology still apply, so anglers should not expect a dramatic increase in range or a completely flawless image.
Nevertheless, Garmin LiveScope 2 represents an interesting development of the platform. Most importantly, anglers can now choose between a compact, high-frequency transducer and a larger model designed for greater range.
