LiveScope VS. Mega Live VS. Active Target - Which One Should You Buy?

[@danpavlico794]

Just bought a Garmin Livescope with LVS34 transducer. It's an absolute game changer! Found a crappie school on the lake bottom in 20 feet of water and drop shot fished at least 30 of them with minnows. Livescope helps you find the fish, and you then can then figure out the best technique to get them to bite. Being able to see your bait or lure helps tremendously too. I'm learning to better use certain lures and baits more effectively since I can see the rate of fall in the water column and also the speed I'm fishing the lure or bait.

[@timothylane457]

So could you catch those crappie without the scope?

[@timothylane457]

New fisherman here just wondering?

[@danpavlico794]

@timothylane457 I initially had a basic fish finder, Garmin Striker I believe. I would just use it for knowing water depth and finding structure mainly. I never had confidence in it to find fish necessarily. With the livescope, I can spot the fish moving in real time and it really helps when they are hugging the bottom of the lakebed in cold water. Coincidentally, I learned to read traditional sonar better because I can compare it to my livescope screen.

[@joeduvall3891]

In general, the TI units are faster in response to inputs. This is seen when quickly switching between sonar, downscan, chart, and split screens kzbin.infoUgkxeAxH15LxhjGlg5-CRYqjTGTEH0tbY4vk recommend The Hook units will show some lag on button pushes and screen switching. The big ticket item though is maps. If you install a mapping card such as Navionics or the free C-Map Genesis which has a lot of map detail, then moving around the map with the cursor or when running down the lake can lag significantly on the Hook units, but is seamless with the TI units.

[@CatfishinWithCarlock]

I've had Garmin Livescope on my boat for a year now, I run two 93SV units. One for the back of the boat and one up front for livescope. I have been very pleased with the units and livescope and it has helped me catch a boatload of crappie, walleyes, wipers, white bass and blue catfish. I love how easy the Garmin controls are to figure out and update the software is a breeze! I have owned Lowrance and Hummingbird units before and I don't have any desire to go back in the slightest. Saving up for their trolling motor eventually to integrate my boat control even more.

[@20hasbro]

I have the exact same setup, I absolutely love it. However, the force is slightly overrated IMO, for the extra money it should set apart from the competition but I think it's about the same

[@buckt12]

As a Humminbird user I will go mega live. I’m not sure why people think better anglers need better images. As long as I see an object moving towards my bait I’m happy, I don’t need to see fins to verify it. I don’t think Humminbird will just let it ride , I believe they will keep tweeking it constantly. I guess menu nav is what you are used to, my buddy’s boat is lowrance and I can’t figure a thing out. Same for the buttons on his ghost. My ultrex is clearly marked on function of each button Your video was very informative

[@scottmyers4802]

I've ran several models of units from all 3 company's. I have found garmin to run the most smoothly with less glitches. Have had several unit and transducer failures with Lowrance. Just my experience. I'm running a garmin 73 uhd sv unit now and love it.

[@InDepthSonar]

I agree...even though I have Lowrance I think the ranking today is LiveScope+, LiveScope, Active Target, Mega Live

[@Jozenz21]

I have all humminbird units. Mega live with Target lock so the forward facing sonar has its own mount, motor and controller. The ability to lock on a "target" no matter what the boat does is awesome. Yes humminbird might be lacking a bit in "live" sonar, boat the "one" boat network makes up for the difference along with "just plug it in"... I can lock on baitfish, structure or whatever as my boat maneuvers around...and mark waypoints on the mega-live that shares with all the rest of the units....!!! 13:27

[@billk4448]

Hi. Great video. There are some other costs though associated with Humminbird that might not be in the other brands. The first includes adapters. There is a signficant cost getting the adapters needed to run simultaneous sonar sources (such as mega DI, and Mega 360). For this you need to purchase a "Y" split to merge the sonar sources. For Helix units in addition to this Y split you are going to need multiple adapters for your ethernet connections to the back of your units (this is very odd). If you go stand alone Mega 360 it will connect to a Solix, but not natively to a helix-you need another adapter. The other limitation I see is that unlike Lowrance (which I used to have), you do not have multiple ethernet connections on the unit. This means on a Helix unit you need to have the hub, and connect mega live at a min to that hub if you want 360 to run across more than 1 finder. Also note there is quite a bit of chatter about not being able to use all the ethernet ports on your hub, most say only 4/5 or you run into issues. I had a lot of interference when using the Y connection and merging my Mega SI+ transducer and my Mega 360. That means I had to pull it, and then rely on 2D sonar from my dash unit. I use 2D a lot for dropping on fish. More so in this infrastructure because I do not find the fish/bottom seperation of the mega live is very good, nor is clarity. Now, because I had to remove SI from the front of my boat, I am seeing 2D as fish are already past me. I can also say that if it requires an over 200 AH lithium to run this setup, that is another big $$ commitment on top. Then there are upgrades. Humminbird right now is running a LOT of upgrades to software. In fact I've done 3 in the last 3 months, and there have been at least one update that was only 2 weeks apart from the last one. Upgrades on these units take time. I have a Helix 15SI, Helix 12 SI, and a Helix 15 CHO. Each finder update is differrent and has to be done individually, not to mention the SD slot vary between 12 inch and 15 inch models (which is also odd). The 12 inch unit uses a full SD card, the 15's run micro SD cards. So to do the upgrades there is a seperate software pack for each of those units, and after all that is done (if there is an update) you have to run your mega 360, and/or Mega Live updates at the end of the rainbow. Seems to me with so many updates Humminbird is having quite a few software issues (at least with the Helix line) and are struggling to stabilize their technology and sonar. I can confirm I have had numerous issues with Units freezing, or refusing to recognize Mega Live, or Mega 360 after pulling my TM out of the water to run to a new location. Because of a lot of this I have decided to move away from mega live too because of image quality. I just cannot see fish the way my competition does. I've been on boats with a Garmin and not only can I see fish under a dock, but I can tell which docks have bigger fish. I've heard Lowrance tech is the same tech as Garmin (I heard they bought it from Garmin-not sure though) and it too is pretty good in this scenario. I do though find the Humminbird 360 great and almost more important than mega live. I used to have a Solix running mega 360 and its image was superior (by far) to my Helix units though (I am not sure due to interference or simply resolution-I am investigating this). I also find Humminbird side imaging superior to all of them in image quality, and humminbird lakemaster chips better in detail (in fact way better) than Navionics. Unlike navionics/lowrance with Humminbird you need a seperate chip for each fish finder (at least with a Helix-100-150 per card). But unlike Lowrance, the humminbird fish finders will not turn off your fishing ranges when your Navionics + year subscription runs out. That's kina dirty toast to me Lowrance, what the heck? I have another limitation with runnig mega 360 and mega live. I thought (logically) I could run both sonar types on a single 15" helix unit (not sure about Solix or Apex or other brands) to simplify the number of finders up front. Nope, you cannot. You can only run 1 or the other. YOu are also limited with Helix in your views and you have to default to the views packaged into the helix. I didn't think to research this after having a Solix, and I should have. So I had to buy an extra unit to accomodate this scenario (major bucks). think Lowrance 2D sonar is probably my favorite (I had it for years). Hummibird is not bad, but Lowrance is better to me. I am taking some time for these comments because I have had a heck of a time moving from lowrance to hummibird on my boat and hope some of this info helps you avoid some of the dissapointments I've experienced. Like many I've had these stability issues all summer long, to the point in fact where I've had to dissassemble my entire boats electronics including my units, transducers and fish finders (talk about disruption and time) to have them serviced. I may be an outlier, but I am not sure I am when you start crusing the boards out there. I want to conclude by saying spend quite a bit of time digging into the details of these units before making a choice. I thought that because I bought a hummibird product, they all would be compatible across product line (and they are not). You cannot share sonar sources in a network across a Helix and a Solix. I am not sure about APEX. The only thing Humminbird shares across dissimilar units is waypoints. And to that point, note that a Helix unit cannot take in more than 2500 waypoints and there is some serious overhead to waypoint management if you have been fishing for many years and like your waypoints from other brand units. Solix, it has a 10K capacity. Because of all the adapters and such, to me it might be worth just going Solix in my opinion. When you add in the cables and such they might be that much more expensive than a Solix in the end. I hope that some of this input helps you not make some of the mistakes I made in my selections. If anything I've said is inaccurate please be kind and tell me and I will update my post. I can only speak from my own experience. This technology is so expensive it is hard to recover from a single mistake as you add or change your tech stack on your boat.

[@gostdogcrx]

Thanks!

[@InDepthSonar]

All you'll need is the Ethernet Adapter Dongle bassproshops.vzck.net/qn1MPg and the US2 adapter cable bassproshops.vzck.net/DV5o4b

[@fishinghunting7275]

Bill you writing a book or on the rag

[@ericwolfe3900]

I've owned the Garmin LiveScope for over a year, now. (Switched from Lowrance) I am completely addicted to it! For my lake, Lake Naconiche, TX, the abundance of timber and the fact that the majority of my fish suspend over the creeks make the LiveScope really shine. I'm 100% sure I made the right choice. Garmin has yet to be beat...yet. Great video. 👍

[@InDepthSonar]

Thank you! Garmin sure is the leader. Looking forward to see what they come out with next.

[@micksmith5641]

I'm wandering if the Garmin would work where it would not hit the humminbird 360 shaft. I'm not getting rid of my 360 but for live sonar I would consider Gamin if it would work. I belive it would display on my Solix's.

[@ericwolfe3900]

I have my x-ducer mounted to a separate "launcher", not on my trolling motor, so I can hold in Spot-Lock and still look around with LiveScope. I dont think the LiveScope can be displayed on your Hummingbird unit.

[@InDepthSonar]

@Mick Smith you'd have to get Mega Live to work with your Solix. You can usually Mount the Live transducer lower than the 360 to avoid any signal blocking.

[@InDepthSonar]

@Eric Wolfe That is the best way by far to mount them. A friend of mine has a remote control one for his Active Target and were going fishing next week so I'm looking forward to trying that out

[@michaellawrence1503]

If you really study the product and not just use 'factory settings', the Garmin Live Scope has been awesome for us this year on suspended Muskie over 50" and Walleye over 30" in the upper Midwest. Big fish found mostly in and around suspended Cisco or Shad locations. Generally that was 15-20 feet this summer.

[@surgeoutdoorsangling]

Man you knocked that outta the park. Awesome video with the comparisons, installs & views on screen together. That video would of taken a lot of work, well worth the time. Thanks for the info, I shared on my fb + Instagram cuz it crushed it. 👍

[@InDepthSonar]

Thanks for the share! This one was a lot of work but glad with how it came out

[@geh3505]

Am actively shopping for a new unit when I found your comparisons. My local fishing store is currently out of the Garmin and says the Lowrance is “just as good”. I’ll wait for the Garmin. Great video and just in time. Thanks !

[@InDepthSonar]

Lowrance is really close to Garmin with the image quality. From a feature standpoint Garmin offers a little more right now in my opinion

[@mwhack3262]

Why don't you just learn how to fish and dave the money! Buying success is honorless!

[@B-DINO]

​@@mwhack3262 it's like playing golf with Walmart clubs, sure you can play but you won'tbe asa proficient...if the tech is available to help then power to those people that can afford it. I can't afford it but I'm happy for the people that purchase them. Over time the prices should come down and without those people with deep pockets then the companies couldn't afford to create the tech and build on it. I understand your resentment to the tech but I'm happy for the evolution whether I'm involved or not. If someone created a new lure that guaranteed a better bite then I'd be happy for that too. Almost every sport has evolved with newer tech, I'd say embrace it or ignore it.

[@TheIceman101]

I first purchased the Garmin 93 sv UHD then I was undecided on live scope for a couple of months then I ended up purchasing it. Let me tell you once I started learning how to use it, it is incredible, when I go out on the water, I know I'm going to catch crappie guaranteed, but of course, more comes with that like the right jigs, boat position etc. I have been catching from 40 to 80 crappie in a half day of fishing in from 17 to 40 feet deep. I had to learn how to use my settings and now I have them dialed in and I will never change from Garmin. It is a very detailed view while looking at the screen.

[@InDepthSonar]

Totally changes the way you fish. Glad to hear it's working well for you

[@finmanpoozie4756]

This is a really good video---- BUT wearing a Garmin hat kinda makes you somewhat biased 6/2022 is when TargetLock was introduced for MegaLive. KZbin says it's a 2 year old video so maybe TargetLock was not available when this was made. Add a big perk with TargetLock (I have an Ultrex Quest on my boat, so I am compatible), the sonar stays in the same position regardless of the boat changing angles, or it can be setup to scan a range of degrees & stay pinned with that. The other 2 have to be on a pole & manually keep being positioned while the boat angle changes. I went with an Ultrex Quest (actually replaced my Ultrex for the Quest) instead of an Ulterra (or Quest) because I want forward facing sonar & it's planned for accordingly. Until @11:59 Garmin hat. @12:00 Humminbird hat @12:36 back to a Garmin hat... details don't slip by all of us LOL I'm a Johnson outdoor boat guy: dual Talons, 4 Helix (10", G3s & 1 G4), 360, 60" Ultrex Quest, wireless remote & 2 cascaded OneBoat network switches. I'm not considering a Garmin or Lowrance FFS because I want what TargetLock affords me. I'm holding off until 2025 because until this summer, a 60" Ultrex compatible MegaLive was not available...until only recently so it's a go for me now

[@mikewalt8642]

I am a hb guy. But after seeing the clarity of the hb mega live, i went with panaptix upfront. I waited for quite a while hoping they had a better unit than garmin. to me it wasnt. So i will have 2 hb's and a garmin in the boat. thanks for the video

[@InDepthSonar]

Good choice!

[@stevestone9648]

I bought the Garmin lvs32 livescope and the 93sv in a package deal from The Bass Tank for $1800. Then purchased the perspective mount for $100

[@CF-rw3uf]

Awesome video Lawren, oh yeah, great job on the switcheroo with your hats!!

[@InDepthSonar]

Hahaha next time I'll try to swap my shirt too... Think that'll be harder though 🤔😜

[@redneckrick9063]

I currently run 2 solix 15 gen 3 with 360 and a garmin live on a 1022 garmin chart plotter. Units work great together but a thing to consider is battery usage which is a lot with the units. Finally had to go to a 250 amp hour lithium to support the high battery drain. Running a new minn kota ultrex mega, Han not noticed any bad interference with my units

[@terryhope4102]

I’m a few years from retirement. I like the hummingbird 360 and the integrated system. Maybe in 3-5 years they will upgrade the mega live to be equivalent to active target and live scope. The ghost is expensive!

[@brentdavenport8754]

I’ve been running Garmin livescope 34 with a 126sv touch screen at the bow and a 93sv touch at helm. Both units have 2 connections so no additboxes necessary to connect the two screens. Loving it! Have caught more fish in 4 trips with livescope than in the past 15-20 previously! It’s a real game changer! Also I purchased a starting/deep cycle AGM battery to replace the original starting battery. So far it holds up well on 12 hour fishing trips with both units running non stop. Cost about $325 which is a deal comparatively to a lithium

[@craigcanterbury264]

So I look at things a bit different. Yes I run Garmin units with live scope. But I’ve used Lowrance & Humming bird. No one gets that same quality of images as you see on the units when there in demo mode. Conditions are perfect when they record that stuff and only use the best clips. There set up is spot on perfect let’s face it boats built different any turbulent water passing by transducer image. Heck of you load you boat different then when you mounted the transducer the angle will change quality suffers. As far as forward live sonar goes. Same as the previous statement you won’t see the same image quilts as what demo mode looks like so forget that. I want fast processing data with decent quality image do not need a photo quality image. I just need to see what down there.

[@InDepthSonar]

I agree that the manufacturers are using their best imaging in the demo mode (except Humminbird, because if you've seen Mega Live demo compared to it on the water, the demo is horrible). But at the same time I think you can achieve the images they get as well under ideal conditions, which would apply to all sonar really. I experienced that myself this past week on the water with Lowrance Active Target. Those bass Lowrance uses in their marketing look far to realistic for me to believe it wasn't photoshopped...but after seeing a 3lb smallmouth swim through the sonar beam and look just like the ads it made me believe they are real. As users we need to dial in the angle of our transducers to get the best image and it can be achieved with a little work and ideal weather conditions.

[@craigcanterbury264]

@@InDepthSonar I agree under perfect conditions you can get that quality imagine. But I’m most of the time we get less then ideal image but we know it’s structure or fish on live sonar as see marks moving.

[@motorcycleislife8296]

I just bought the new Garmin livescope for my kayak and the ability for me to scan the shorline and know theres no fish there during the summer is a game changer.

[@InDepthSonar]

That's so great you finished out your lake.

[@muskiehntr]

@@user-xk3su3yc7m you use a 4k unit to fish form shore? State lake or state pond?

[@paulrash8861]

If your salt and fresh , i run a raymarine axiom on the console, panoptix live on the bow , o fish crappie fresh , trout, on the salt, i use the ray to map it out and scope to pinpoint 🙂

[@DanRichardFishing]

Couple of notes on the Garmin units and the black box needed and the network ports. If you have any of the Garmin Echomap Ultra units, you can directly connect the LVS12 transducer with no black box, although that changes the angles you have available as this is a cheaper transducer. Also all Ultra units have 2 network ports, so you don't have to buy a hub for networking these. My issue with Lowrance is that it's nothing but horror stories with their customer support. The HB Megalive is awful, especially considering how long they've had to put this product together. I think next product will be a live view 360 product, we'll have to see :)

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes you are correct with the Ultra units 10" and 12" models and 2 network ports

[@mxer224]

You are correct, lowrance HDS/carbon units will not need a network box. I run a two brand set up. Hummingbird for mega360 and lowrance for everything else.

[@InDepthSonar]

That is a nice setup. Best of both worlds with mega 360 on there as well!

[@onthefish3984]

I'm starting to feel like I can't afford to keep up with fishing. Rods reels electronics boats and motors are already enough. Also in case anyone was wondering these units eat up batteries so switching to a lithium is also expensive $$

[@InDepthSonar]

It sure is different than when I started and $1000 for a black and white 5" sonar/GPS was about as expensive as it got

[@tonythornton3438]

You can buy a tall lithium for $189 put it in your port rod locker also easier install

[@InDepthSonar]

Lots of guys are starting to do this

[@TheBlindkiller85407]

100% On The Fish. The market and “value” in the fishing industry is ridiculous. I have a 2005 17ft nitro. Then, loaded to the gills was 16k. Now a comparative boat 17 years later is over 30k before most of the options, tax, tag and title. I upgraded 5 years ago to a terrova, helix 10 g2 and a g3 helix 7 at console. Which are both almost beyond irrelevant now.

[@Mrmalcom1979]

My electronics are worth more than the value of my boat. Lol

[@pvd354]

Great video....I have a 2016 skeeter with two Lowrance HDS 9 units. I wanted to go with Active Target but didn't want to spend the money on updating my two units to the Carbon or HDS Live. I decided to go with livescope and connected it to a Garmin GPS Maps1222. I absolutely love it!! I continue to use my Lowrances for side scan when I'm behind the wheel but if I'm on the front deck, I'm using the Garmin. That option of going with the Garmin GPSmaps was the cheapest and best option for me. Total cost was $3400.

[@InDepthSonar]

Nice! $3400 for a 12" unit and LiveScope is a great deal!

[@junkmail428]

I truly enjoy your videos. I just bought me a boat last year it came with a helix 7... It's not the E so I can't connect a second bow Sonar.. If my hummingbird that came on the boat was compatible to connect to another hummingbird I would stick with hummingbird... I've been watching videos for several months I know I'm fixing the sink $5000 into something.. I like the 360 imaging But I'm also into the touchscreen that Is Lawrence offers.... I had just about decided to go with 100% lorrance But after sitting down and watching videos again I am contemplating going with Lawrence with Lawrence on the bowAnd then in the futureAdd a bigger helix to my console that offers 360... I'm still up in the air

[@erniesanders3724]

Total Lowrance on my boat. Extremely satisfied.

[@InDepthSonar]

I have always liked their units the best and still do today. HDS Live and Elite FS are as good as anything out there

[@chrishamre2119]

Great video and information. I’m a Humminbird fan no particular reason. I think with the new target lock feature they are the way to go. I see people mentioning needing lithium batteries to keep the power running. I personally have heard guys have issues with the lithiums with internal circuits on the batteries going bad. I think the AGM batteries are the best bang for the buck right now.

[@InDepthSonar]

The benefit to lithium is the constant 12 volts plus through the entire discharge cycle. With AGM or lead acid, you'll only get 12 volts for a portion of the discharge cycle. Then performance will suffer on your electronics once you are below 12 volts

[@Cable810]

I just got the Mega 360 this year but I would definitely go with Live Scope

[@InDepthSonar]

Having both would be the best setup today

[@matthewford2869]

I've been looking for this type of information for months! Great job! After watching, I really like the 360 on Hummingbird. I wonder if Hummingbird will improve it's imaging? I would probably go with Garmin, betting on the fact that they will innovate and create their own 360.

[@InDepthSonar]

Awesome, thank you!

[@richardevans5471]

I’m new to this advanced electronics/sonar world and recently bought a new multi-species fishing boat. I chose to go with a Minn Kota Ulterra trolling motor because it has remote control to deploy and operate. I often have to launch my boat alone & sometimes without any dock or pier,; the remote controlled trolling motor makes that SO much simpler & easier than before! Then I also went with Hummingbird sonar/electronics to have a fully integrated system. I would’ve preferred the Lowrance Ghost trolling motor & electronics, but that doesn’t have remote control deploy etc.

[@outdooradict]

Mega live is compatible with all solix units mega 360 has to be gen2 and up!

[@philipjonsson7133]

You could have went with raptors or talons when you get it off the trailer

[@frankgilroy3189]

On my nitro, it’s 2 Garmin’s for livescope and 2 Humminbird’s for best sidescan and 360.

[@InDepthSonar]

That is a great setup! Can't be the Humminbird MSI or 360

[@claytonlohse2553]

Also have to consider which trolling motor you want when picking a fish finder. If you go with hummingbird you really need a minnkota so you can do ipilot link and lowerance needs motor guide….I’m sure both brands are pretty amazing at this point though

[@livingmissourisoutdoor6815]

I switched to Garmin from lowrance. I have 106 and two 93 and of course live scope. Finding it frustrating to deal with the ghost tree plays havoc with me. Another plus is product support, I find Garmin support , incredible!

[@InDepthSonar]

Have you used the Ghost Tree Rejection feature they now have?

[@livingmissourisoutdoor6815]

@@InDepthSonar yes every setting low, medium and high changed nothing.

[@CAN43715]

With a pixel display of 1280 x 800 on a 10inch screen for Garmin Echo Map ultra 106sv (currently on sale for $999.00 at Bass Pro), coupled with a Live Scope LVS34 transducer system for $1699.00, I do not see how lowrance and Hummingbird can be a better value.

[@kenmccarthyfishing]

🔥🔥🔥I absolutely love my Active Target system and my HDS LIVE ❤️👊

[@InDepthSonar]

My favorite setup of what is it there now. Hopefully they add some of the software features that Garmin did to theirs recently.

[@harrisonnelson1064]

Do you guys think the hds live 7 is big enough to see and run active target clearly?

[@InDepthSonar]

I've run the Garmin on an 8" screen and it was big enough for me, so you should be good with a 7". I'd always recommend getting the biggest unit you can fit/afford. I think a 7" unit with live sonar is better than no unit with live sonar. The only thing with the smaller screens is you really can't split them if you want to see something else like GPS at the same time as the Live sonar

[@typowell9142]

I have the same setup, love my ActiveTarget and HDS LIVE 12

[@scottt7694]

I would like to see a comparison that shows best buy in particular price ranges and the basic differences in each level. Some of us have children to feed and need to know what to buy with the money we have. Fyi, i feed them fish.

[@tlalexander3]

I started out with the Livescope that I purchased for $1000 with the $500 Garmin rebate. I bought a 73CV to start out, and it has worked pretty well. If you are fishing very close to brush, such as crappie fishing, then this might be the best option for you. However, I frequently set the range out to around 100 ft max to fish brush piles for bass, and it makes it difficult to see your bait unless you are throwing something huge. I just purchased an ultra 106SV with the GT54 for $1000 through Bass pro. I think this is probably your best bet if you are buying one at this moment. The screen is much bigger than the 73 and probably noticeably bigger than the 93. Also, the pixel count is a good bit higher (I think 25% more than the 93), so you will see more detail and should be able to see your bait better. As you mentioned, the 106 has two ports, so I will use one for livescope and leave one open until I buy their networking box. I also purchased a 93sv for $699 that I plan to run on the console. It has the GT54, which I am hoping will serve me well, at least for a while. I have the old Humminbird 1197 and 899 on my boat, so I can't link them. Plus the technology in general is pretty old. I plan to link the 93 at the console to the 73 I am leaving up front, and just use the 73 to navigate to waypoints when I'm fishing off shore. I also plan to leave my 1197 at the dash for mapping and leaving the HD transducer on as a backup should I ever need it.

[@nathanbrinker1149]

I have a question Does the 106sv come with live scope? Or do you buy it seperate Do you buy a seperate screen for the driver?

[@InDepthSonar]

You'd have to buy the 106 on its own and then the livescope+ on its own and then the two go together

[@DavidMccallister65]

I'm beyond disappointed that Hummingbird had the benefit of watching two other brands go ahead of them with front facing sonar and yet somehow, someone in charge compared Mega Live to the other two brands, must've known it wasn't as clear and yet still said, "Yep, we got it boys! Send it on out for mass production and distribution!" I specifically put Hummingbird on my new boat instead of Lowrance anticipating a superior product. I even explained my reasoning to others saying, "Well the way I see it, Hummingbird HAS to come out with something better. Otherwise what's the point???" I was wrong smh

[@InDepthSonar]

The only way they could have justified the clarity of it is with a wide beam angle...but we didn't get that. If this had a 30° beam then I can understand the clarity. It would also make sense for them to have a wider beam and use that in conjunction with Mega 360. Use Mega 360 for high detail bottom structure views and a wide beam live sonar to see fish.

[@DavidMccallister65]

@@InDepthSonar something.... Anything! But damn this really makes no sense. Especially when you consider the time and money they must've spent creating it. Idk I just feel super disappointed

[@danielvinson8099]

I have had humminbird and Lowrance, I have switch to Garmin units and it’s my favorite setup so far with their new trolling motor.

[@ipoopinwalmart5968]

Personally I sold my hummingbird units and went with Garmin only because I didn't want to wait forever for them to come out with mega live. But now that some ppl are getting their mega live transducers and posting videos I'm kinda glad because hummingbird over sold the image quality of mega live and under performed with it. But I'm sure they will tune it and make it better at least I hope. I'm glad I made the switch. I chose Garmin over lowrance because I personally found the image quality better with Garmin and the active target was more of the Garmin PS22 transducer style of imaging.

[@dannyjohnson2402]

I spent my money on HDS Live and Active Target in 2022. Now Lowrance has introduced HDS PRO and Active Target 2. The consumer can't buy a new product every time a company introduces new products. The regular man or woman has to take lots of time and effort in learning how these products work. If a man or woman has lots of money to spend then go right ahead and get the new products each year. All I am stating here is to be happy with what I have and take time to learn how to use it!!

[@bryanembree8734]

I have run Humminbird helix in the past and loved their mega down and side imaging. I bought a newer boat that had Lowrance HDS 12 lives (bow and console) I got the active target and love it, but I don’t like the mapping along with the side and down imaging. I got spoiled with my hummingbirds. But I am going to stay with Lowrance due to the active target has got me hooked.

[@InDepthSonar]

If you're not running Navionics in the Lowrance might want to give that a shot as those maps are usually pretty good

[@edwardmarshall8795]

I would not switch from hummingbird I have a one boat network but your right about mega live hopefully they will come out with a 3d version

[@williamturner2058]

I run a garmin 122 with lvs34 and then a Lowrance 12 at the now and Lowrance 16 at dash with ghost trolling motor

[@BigCityCountryBoi]

Garmin for livescope only and Hummingbird for side scan and everything else seems the way to go as of 2022

[@InDepthSonar]

Pretty much! Except Lowrance has better GPS than Humminbird IMO

[@jakedelaney1541]

Have the garmin 93sv, I definitely enjoy it. Only regret is not getting the 10 or 12in screen

[@InDepthSonar]

Lol everyone always wants a bigger screen. I fished with a buddy who has a 16" display and looking at a 12" after it seemed so small

[@daved2403]

Thanks for the video! Have you considered doing an on-water three way comparison of all the units? Would be great to see.

[@InDepthSonar]

I have, but ran out of time this year.

[@stevestone9648]

Fish the moment did this and Garmin won hands down

[@josephdeering7142]

Very good video. You teach it well. I have a problem you may be able to answer. I bought a helix unit with no transducer because i have the minn kota with a transducer. Problem is a cant drive around all the time with troll motor in water. Is there a way of hooking up a second transducer? Thanks

[@shawnmercer310]

I have both systems Garmin and Lowrance. Garmin wins by a large margin in control and fine tuning the view. Lowrance is in need of some major software updates to compete.

[@InDepthSonar]

I was so impressed with Garmin when they came out with that last big update for LiveScope. That really set them apart again from Lowrance. They have done such a great job keeping their place of number 1

[@billyhurley6866]

Yep you can catch'm in the wind. Great stuff!

[@jonathanhopkins6226]

To be fair when you compared prices, you used the hummingbird si models as their example. You do not need the si model to run the live scope only the DI. That makes the prices almost even

[@InDepthSonar]

I see your point, but to be fair to Garmin and Lowrance you have to compare the SI models. If I compared a DI unit you can't add SI to that unit, but with Garmin and Lowrance you could if you bought a unit with a DI only transducer. I get it though, if you just want the cheapest option with Humminbird as a dedicated Mega Live only then DI is the way to go

[@MrAdamd83]

I bought the lowrance elite fs9 and the active target sonar system and I love it

[@InDepthSonar]

That's a great setup! I've been a huge fan of the Lowrance Elite units and the FS is by far the best they've made in that series

[@05ALT]

Are you still liking the setup?

[@fishcampandfix745]

I have always used Lowrance until I had a very hard time with overseas tech support. I went with Garmin this last time. I suggest anyone thinking of buying a Lowrance to call tech support with a issue and see how long it takes to get a person.

[@InDepthSonar]

I find all the tech support to be useless for the most part. Unless you get to a person who is higher up and has more than a basic knowledge.

[@gregbroyles2908]

Great analysis! I ordered my mega live Feb 2021. Still waiting!

[@InDepthSonar]

Like everyone else lol. Hopefully we'll see then this month. That is that latest I heard on delivery

[@nope6770]

Keep the receipt. It's trash

[@lamontclyburn2464]

The hummingbird live is a game changer you know how to tweak your system and get it dialed in the other two brands and not come even close one thing you need to do when you hook up your hummingbird mega live make sure it’s on its own battery for Fayetteville and you will definitely get a very clear picture that’s what I feel so hummingbird thumbs up

[@InDepthSonar]

Mega Live is better than nothing at all. LiveScope Plus now takes the top spot in my opinion. They solved the issues with beam stitching like Mega Live but have better clarity

[@Jake-uq3wl]

Thank you for the comparison video. I am running a Johnson outdoors network on my Skeeter but I am planning to add active imaging. I am not impressed by the “mega” live picture. I think I know which way I’m going now.

[@InDepthSonar]

Glad it was helpful!

[@N1nja4h1re]

Ive always sticked with Garmin, no reason behind it. So I’ve just recently purchased a Garmin 93sv UHD + LS. Looking forward to see what it can. #KayakBassFishing

[@bobbyh177]

subbed, where have you been all my life! i have been looking for videos like these!

[@matthewgonzalez5019]

Love those fish in the background on your shelf if you don’t mind, I’d like to know who made them and thanks.

[@InDepthSonar]

Those are old whisky bottles my grandfather had. I liked them when I was a kid so I hung on to them once he passed away. Not sure where he got them.

[@danrillo12]

I use multi color line and a lead weight to find depth…

[@anthonybrown6574]

I'm thinking about going with 12 inch live with active target 2 with live sonar with hd transducer

[@davidschvab5011]

Some time ago I got the lowrance TI29 along with the Motor guide Xi5 trolling motor. I’m ready to upgrade to the ELITE FS9 with active active TargetHDS 9 wActive target. Do I need to ditch the Xi5 or can I use it with the HDS. CURRENTLY I’m using my Hummingbird with my Xi5. And it works just fine. Any thought to my dilemma. To me it seems that since the Ti2 is not compatible I really have no choice. Can i install the Active Target on the XI5

[@barryfluckiger8764]

I went from Lawrance to humminbird. I’m very happy and you couldn’t pry my mega 360 out of my hands. With that being said, I anxiously waited for mega live. I’m very disappointed at the images I’ve been seeing but trying to keep an open mind as I been hearing about updates and fixes for a better picture. I don’t think I would change brands just yet but I was a little annoyed with humminbird on how they handled the whole process.

[@InDepthSonar]

Agreed with you on how Humminbird handled the Mega Live release. I think of you're invested in Humminbird then the Mega Live will be a good compliment to the 360. The detail you get on Mega 360 may help offset the lack of detail on Mega Live. Maybe I'm just being overly optimistic about that, but I look forward to using both together.

[@ManitobaFishingAdventures]

@@InDepthSonar I just got my hands on the mega live up here in manitoba canada! The release really turned people off of bird as it should've... but i can say after using it on the water this past week and using active target and live scope in the past... the MEGA live offers the best overall clarity (no beam stitching) and overall clear crisp image. I actually just posted a short video on my channel with my first experience with it on the water... don't wanna steal your thunder InDepth Sonar haha but i gave my first overall impression and showed some clips of it in action!!

[@InDepthSonar]

@Manitoba Fishing Adventures Very cool you got to compare it will Active Target. I've got some video posted on my channel a friend sent me and is not bad for sure. If you don't mind me asking where did you get yours?

[@ManitobaFishingAdventures]

@@InDepthSonar i manage a fishing store up here in manitoba called the fishin hole! The Canadian humminbird rep got his and offered to take me out to do some video content on it! I order the Helix 9 Mega ice kit for the winter, but our actual stock of the just the MEGA Transducers are expected to arrive in two weeks!

[@InDepthSonar]

@Manitoba Fishing Adventures I know the Fishin Hole well! My first job was working in the Lowrance Canada warehouse and we used to ship them huge orders.

[@chriswood3924]

Great video.. just proves to me why I went Lowrance.. got 2 FS 9’s and AT on my new boat had to get the network due to Lowrance advertising they are network compatible but don’t say to each other just the internet…. Lol love it all learning every trip out…. Love your stuff

[@InDepthSonar]

Thanks Chris! Lowrance has done such a good job with their touchscreen Elite units over the last several years. You get basically everything that most people need just not the extras that the HDS offers which most people don't need.

[@marcgriffis7704]

I would like to know how these stack up with the trolling motors with autopilot systems.

[@edheinlein3747]

FYI, Huminbird just advised me that the mega live is compatible with ALL solix model units, not just the G3?

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes that is correct. Good to hear for people with older units

[@RushVoorhisOutdoors]

great video man, lots of information here!

[@InDepthSonar]

Thank you!!

[@hockeyguy3417]

Just got my Mega Live but haven't got it on the boat yet. I love my old 360. Gotta up grade a 2nd unit for MEGA 360. Now Humminbird has the Target system for Mega Live. I'm gonna have to hit the lottery just to win $300 in the local club tournament since everyone else has some type of Forward facing sonar on their boat!

[@InDepthSonar]

Lol so true

[@AFaO]

Great video & comparison between the 3 live sonar options. I wonder if you can successfully run both the Lowrance/Garmin & Humminbird at the same time since the frequency is different? I know that the new Lowrance AT2 has a timing wire between AT modules so that it can time the firing of the transducers and not have interference. But if a guy had a Garmin LVS or Lowrance AT1 --- and wanted to add a Humminbird, it would be nice to know if you can run both at the same time without interference.

[@ryaneveley6337]

starred with a helix unit and added a garmin and garmin wins hands down . haven't added livescope yet but this spring it will be there

[@InDepthSonar]

You'll love it! Livescope is by far the best out there

[@gregdeon705]

i started to upgraded my electronics early last year , from a 20 year old Raymarine set of 2 C70's ( grat sounders but the screens finally gave up ) and a lowrance for side scan ( which I hated ) . Andafter looking at a few other systems decided on the Humminbird system . I recently got the 360 ( which I had to modify the shaft lenght to reach a decent depth as I have high sided boat ) for the shallower water fishing around the shallow reefs and in the inlets and rivers . Because of the three 9 inch helix screens I required a network hub , if I was to ask for anything it would be o be able to raise and lower my 360 transducer in and out of the water for travel on a self deployment system like my 80lb Min Kota . Would I change systems , No . Are the other systems good , yes . but I prefered Humminbird at the time . Which other systems did I like - the Raymarine and the garmin . Did I think about a two system set up , yes I thought about 2 humminbirds and a Garmin , but I ultimately decided on humminbird and originally bought two gn3 and later added a GN4 later when I could afford it . Was it expensive - Yes . Was it worth it - well I believe so , I have a few mates who I occasionaly take with me and they have a mixture of Garmin and Lowarnce sounders and they comment on how much clearer my screens are , though they are a year or so older systems . In short , decide for yourself and see what floats your boat .

[@InDepthSonar]

I agree 100% on deciding on what is right for you! They are all good. Some do one thing better than the other, but over all you can't go wrong these days in electronics if you do your research first

[@richardgutierrez4621]

When 360 first came out they had a rear mounted system that could be deployed up or down. I was going to buy it as I have a deep v boat with a Terrova that you couldn’t mount the transducer to.

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes that was a good system for people with electric steer motors. I think the 360 mounting system could really use some improvement. Maybe that's how Lowrance or Garmin with try to compete with Humminbird

[@jasonriede6056]

Love my active Target with a lowrance live 12 hook to a 30 amp amped lithium battery battery only weighs 6 lb I wanted to isolate the power to One battery and ground it back to the battery

[@InDepthSonar]

So many guys are running a dedicated Lithium for their Active Target modules. Makes a big difference in performance

[@ripper2087]

Great video. Would have been nice to see an actual side by side comparison of bait/fish/catch for clarity. I am a HB guy setup with a Helix 12MSI at the console, Helix 9 MDI and the Ulterra I pilot Link all networked together. I am old school reluctant to veer from what works, but I am toying with adding either the Mega Live (also for ice fishing with my Ice Shuttle and the Helix 9) or the Garmin Live Scope. I've read/seen good things about Live Scope but it seems like too much stuff to add for both open water and ice fishing. Who can sway me one way or the other?

[@artjomsmironovs1430]

Garmin livescope is much better choice than mega live. For me megalive is complete looser at the moment even competing with active target 2. Sideview on HB is best, but live really sucks…

[@budstone7948]

i have mega live but i think if i were buying a new boat i would get the garmin live scope because it's got a better picture and shows so much more detail than my mega live

[@neverhomeguideservice]

Trying to convince myself to go to Lowrance. I’ve suffered with poor customer service on a faulty over heating Garmin 106sv. I hate to say it but I want to stick with Garmin (but I’m really pissed at them right now)

[@bellfishing8365]

Love my Lowrance. The humming bird looks like the same thing Lowrance came out with on there first try witch was poorly done and did not last long. The active target is on point for sure though

[@InDepthSonar]

For sure! I just picked up an Active Target for ice fishing this year. Can't wait to try it out

[@minbrianbordley6809]

have you heard if Simrad is going to join the race? I did like the Lowrance fx 9 w/active but the customer service was awful. Garmin wasn't user-friendly with my limited sonar knowledge went with Simrad go 9, sacrificed real-time, and still learning how to dial into getting my striper arches.

[@stevestone9648]

Simrad bought lowrance so they are in it

[@larryd.collins7996]

Lowrance was my choice...upgrading my 2008 Lowrance Equipment which is still serving me well without breakdowns.

[@InDepthSonar]

Nice! 2008 units...so LCX or HDS Gen 1?

[@Ognatureboy]

I’ve been trying to figure out what fish finder to get it’s a tough decision

[@crobarrm8695]

Looking like a HB unit for me. I don't want to have the black box to deal with. Weight and space are at a premium on kayak. Of course I'm still debating if I need 360 or just forward imagine, much less trying to work out a good system to make use out of live... your videos are great but I still have to see what I can install cleanly... lol

[@visboer6358]

360 is most effective being in one spot casting, or if you are moving then reaaally slowly

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes 360 is a great tool for that

[@450kman]

Several years ago, I purchased a MotorGuide xi5, along with a few outboard sensors, and integrated this with a Lowrance elite head unit. It appears Lowrance had an issue with weak canbus outputs in the unit, leaving me with a dead network. Now it's time to upgrade to live sonar. 1) Will the old MotorGuide xi5, and outboard sensors, still connect and be controlled by a new Lowrance hds unit? 2) Can the MotorGuide xi5, and outboard sensors, be connected and controlled by a new Garmin sonar unit?

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes to your first question to your second question. Motor guide will not work with Garmin at this point and probably unlikely seeing how Lowrance owns them. However, the engine sensors should work with Garmin

[@450kman]

@@InDepthSonar Thank you for the reply. If I want to route the trolling motor from the head unit, stay with Lowrance. No luck with the trolling motor and Garmin, but the sensors added to the outboard should work. Looks like I will have to stick with Lowrance. Wonder if a major update will be soon unveiled?

[@InDepthSonar]

I heard rumors motorguide was going to make their xi5 work with Garmin. However, now that Lowrance owns MG, I doubt that will happen

[@proaquatics4005]

Personally I own hummingbird but will soon switch to garmen for the clarity in the image

[@InDepthSonar]

Garmin has the best clarity and sonar module in the industry. Lowrance and the rest are years behind

[@philipochoa3365]

Hi there new to all the electronics, but I’ve been watching so many videos on what to buy, My fishing style is trolling and would live scope be a better option for what I need? If you can please give me some advice and tips for what I need! Thank you.

[@whitebass16]

Love how you kept changing hats lol

[@AlexandertheGregfishing]

Good video. You got any insight on distinguishing bass from, carp, cats, gar?

[@InDepthSonar]

That just takes time reading the sonar and learning how the different species react on the screen. Even then it's just guessing

[@mrwhipper21]

I put 2 garmin 93sv uhd on my boat over the winter. I have the ghost tree appear on my units and for this reason alone I wish I would have waited and checked other units. Just curious if the other brands have an issue with ghost tree. I have learned how to eliminate it visually but I can still tell that the returns on any target that is past the tree are less noticeable. Does the tree appear on all Garmins or just my model?

[@InDepthSonar]

From what I have seen it can happen on Lowrance, but it really seems to be a Garmin issue. I'd check with their tech support to see if they can help because in most cases they can resolve it. Mega live I haven't seen it on, but those units haven't hit the market yet enough where you'd hear about the issue

[@dougsherrer5954]

Which has the best customer service? Service after the sale is my priority.

[@MudgettsGuideService]

Curious to the hatred for the single ethernet port on the box. After using ff sonar for a while now, it's not something I'd consider a split screen application so whatever unit it is on will basically be a dedicated unit. If you're using a fs unit or the 7" carbon/live and want it networked you can still use nmea networking which you'll have to have for using additional accessories anyway. If you're using carbons or lives bigger than the 7's they have dual ethernet ports so they can all be daisy chained together anyway. Is there something I'm missing some reasoning behind the rant?

[@InDepthSonar]

That's true if you are running dedicated displays. The single port isn't as big an issue. However, I personally like to have everything connected on one network so I can switch screens and share information between them. Daisy chaining is not a good idea on Lowrance anytime you have three or more ethernet devices that are daisy chained the network slows down significantly. There NEP2 hub will speed things up. And NMEA 2000 networking will only share basic information. It will not share sonar while not share maps and it doesn't provide full control over waypoint sharing either. What I mean by that is if you delete a waypoint on one unit it will remain on the other unit when they are connected through NMEA 2000. Whereas ethernet connected units both waypoints delete. NMEA 2000 also has more connection points and a greater chance of failure due to that. Ethernet is also less expensive due to usually only needing one or two cables.

[@kirdude3647]

Garmin lvs34 hands down best thing I bought for the boat

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes that thing is absolutely amazing by far the best freshwater fishing live sonar out there today

[@bloodlineadventures]

Thanks for breaking this all down 🙂

[@ronmacdougall9612]

If I was to purchase the ice fishing ones could it still be used on my boat.

[@jdpram99]

Best value is definitely a 1222 gps map unit. I got my whole setup for 3200 and it’s got Active Captain capabilities.

[@InDepthSonar]

As long as you don't want touchscreen the 1222 is a great option for a big screen at a cheap price

[@jamesrider3495]

@@InDepthSonar A personal opinion, but the knob on the 1222 is easier to use than the touch screen. Especially if the unit is just for livescope.

[@grhodes3536]

I have had a Garmin LiveScope with a 10” 106 SV Ultra for two years but I also have a 360 and two G2 Solix units. Is there a way to create “one network” minus the Ultrex and Talons if I went all Garmin??

[@InDepthSonar]

You could connect them all through NMEA2000 but there wouldn't be much point as very little would share between them

[@MirEholotov]

Hello! Can I use your video for posting on my channel with translation into Russian? The video will not be used in full, but only the necessary parts of it. I will provide a link to the original.

[@InDepthSonar]

Yes you can add long as there is a link back to the video on my channel. And you overlay on the parts of the video you use my channel name like this "Source: kzbin.info"

[@cgrant8708]

Is it just me or is the image for hummingbird lacking clarity.......I am re-thinking my move to hummingbird. The mega SI is hands down the best for idling around and finding off shore structure......but the new live image has me questioning their direction.

[@InDepthSonar]

Not just you. MSI is the clearest for sure, but in live sonar its not Humminbird

[@glenwright3062]

I am picking up a new 18 ft G3 Angler series boat this coming spring. I have just received a Lowrance Elite 7 FS under warranty as replacement for a Ti 2 that had the GPS fail . Would the 7" FS provide me with a worthwhile view on an Active Target ice bundle or should I consider a 9" screen not only for screen size but for electronic capabilities as well ? I would also want to rig the AT on the boat in some fashion . I figure using the FREE FS will save me about $1000 -$1500 if I don't buy a 9" Display finder head or if I buy Garmin with a new 7" or 9" .display head. But ...I don't want to be disappointed if the Garmin clarity is much superior to Lowrance.( I tend not to adjust settings on my finders ) Thanks for the great videos!

[@InDepthSonar]

I have used the Live sonar on 8" screens and it was fine, but never on a 7". I think the bigger would be better, but at the same time I would take a Free 7" over a 9" i had to pay for. Garmin gives you the best image quality overall...but I think Lowrance will show you more detail in the image. The downside to Lowrance is the beam stitching is more noticeable, and they tend to get more interference on them.

[@glenwright3062]

@@InDepthSonar Thanks for the reply. I picked up the last Garmin® ECHOMAP™ UHD 93sv Panoptix™ LiveScope Ice Fishing Bundle at the Barrie Ont Cabelas on Sunday. I will put it to good use this winter and look forward to using it on my G3 boat next spring. ( an additional 10-15 lbs weight in the Smitty sled this winter LOL)

[@redge3726]

I have been running HB forever. Certainly glad I jumped ship and went with Garmin LS when they first came out.. HB to little to late. HB is 3 years late and doesn't match the image quality of LiveScope on my boat. I do have 360, but with LS, I don't use it near as much as I used to. I have fished on a buddy's boat that has the Lowrance Active Target, IMHO it wasn't as good as the LS from Garmin.

[@InDepthSonar]

Garmin is still the best for sure. Humminbird was in the best seat to put both Garmin and Lowrance to shame, but they didn't capitalize on that.

[@marcinn6312]

If I have Helix 7 Chirps G2 SI, I wont be able to use live transducer?