Good Evening,
Long time lurker here, 1st time poster! I started this post as a PM to Jig34 but thought it may be more appropriate to post on the general forum should anyone have similar questions. I'm looking to upgrade the electronics in my boat and have spent a good amount of time reading about the Axiom. I like the 3 year warranty and 10 year support cycle. I also think the 3D imaging can be helpful for the waters I fish. I was originally started my search by considering units from competing manufacturers that have 360* sonar options. Here's my story and a few questions if you would be so kind.
I have a 2004 Tracker Avalanche with a 150hp Mercury XR6 outboard. I believe it has the original Lowrance electronics package. There is a small (maybe 3-4 inch) unit attached to the MinnKota Maxxum Pro with Universal Sonar at the bow and a Lowrance GPS/Fishfinder combo (maybe 4-5") at the console. There is a GPS "puck" by the console.
I primarily fish lakes with water 25ft or less. Most of the time i'm in <10ft. Here are a few questions...
1) From what I understand, the Axiom product is upgrade-able to continue to improve features and functionality. That being said, is there the possibility of future compatibility with the MinnKota Ultrex and i-Pilot Link? I understand MinnKota and is a Johnson Outdoors company also housing Humminbird. Are there proprietary technologies at play that prevent integration or is it a matter of time and development?
2) Is there any benefit for me to consider the Axiom Pro vs Axiom? I noticed the transducer on the Pro is a 1Kw CHiRP sonar vs the 600w on the Axiom. I'm also aware the Pro has buttons and knobs along with touch. I also understand (i think) the Axiom has an accessory that gives tactile button control of the screen. The difference in transducer power creates depth, not resolution, correct? For a shallow water angler who generally doesn't need navigation, is there a tangible benefit for the Pro (other than the available 16" display)?
3) Based in my limited (and probably incorrect) understanding of sonar, Humminbird achieves their "Mega" imaging by using a transducer operating at 1.2Mhz and new software on the Helix / Solix series. Is this achievable by other brands or are there patents involved that prevent others from achieve similar SI/DI results?
3a) Does Raymarine have plans to release a similar technology for freshwater anglers?
3b) If Raymarine was to release a higher res solution, would the Axiom be able to use it by replacing the transducer and updating software?
4) How does depth effect the width of the 3D image the Axiom is able to produce? I'm sure deeper = wider but is there a formula such as "3D width = Depth x 1.5" or something?
4a) Are the 3D maps able to be stored as they are created? I see this as a FANTASTIC tool for mapping bodies of water and identifying areas and features likely to hold fish. Can I map an entire lake if I were so motivated or is it "scrolling" data that is soon replaced by fresh data?
5) With multiple displays, would I be able to have one screen display 3D image and Nav while have the other display show SI & DI for a total 4 sources of information over 2 screens?
5a) If yes, is this achievable by using the "RayControl" app to use say, an iPad, as an additional display or will the app only mirror/manipulate the original Axiom unit?
6) Following up on the RayControl App, is it possible to link the MinnKota US / US2 sonar to the console and use and iPad as the bow display?
6a) along the same question as 5a, if yes, could I have the US2 sonar and a combo of SI / DI / 3D showing on both bow and console screens at the same time?
7) Raymarine seems to be leading in 3D imaging for freshwater sonar. Is there a 360* solution in development?
7a) If yes, again would the Axiom be upgrade-able vs having to replace the entire setup?
8) I'm just getting into local tournament fishing. I have my first scheduled event this Sunday, May 6th. It's in a small body of water with a max depth of 15ft I think. I'd love to have my new setup installed and tested by then. Is there a preferred retailer recommended if I decide the Axiom is the best solution for me? I was considering Cabela's as I have a points credit card and a 10% off coupon but am open to recommendations/suggestions.
9) At what speeds will the 3D imaging operate effectively?
Thanks for taking the time to read my perhaps nonsensical questions!
Kind Regards,
Joe