3D Imaging Transducer - Best install?

Hi Guys,

I am upgrading to Raymarine Element 7 HV and still figuring out the best way where to mount the transducer on my 2018 Revo 13. I'm aiming on getting the best 3D image reading.  I am considering 2 options. This my first time to own a FF w/ 3D Imaging.
I've ruled out using an external transducer arm.

1. Through hull Foam cup method, cut piece of foam, insert transducer then put water.
I understand that water temp readings won't be accurate.

2. Use BerlyPro Raymarine HV-100 Ready Transducer Mount. I know this will provide the best reading. My concern is the transducer is sticking out and might get damaged.

It would be great to get your opinions and share your experience.

Thanks,

Mel

Use the BerleyPro mount.  Yes, it will stick out, but it seems to provide minimal additional drag.  I tried it with a cell block, it provides quite a bit of a drag.  I didn't try the inside hull method, the thought was let the device works its thing to its max capabilities.

If you haven't purchased it, my thought is that the 3D doesn't really add any value, unless you have speed to chase hot areas.  If I have to do it over, I will save the money.  Also, I didnt read up on your Element 7 HV, but if it is touch screen, I would skip it and find something with buttons.

I would spend the extra money for Navionics or whatever map option you desire.

I have the Element with the HV-100 transducer and did a lot of research on mounting in hull (you drill a hole for through hull transducers) and it will not work because of the side scan.

So your choice is limited to the arm, or the BerleyPro mount.

As other have said, you will have to do something besides thru hull or in hull to get the nontraditional sonar readings to work.  I would agree with Yak and just avoid the 3D at this point unless youre fishing bass tourneys or something.

As other have said, you will have to do something besides thru hull or in hull to get the nontraditional sonar readings to work.  I would agree with Yak and just avoid the 3D at this point unless youre fishing bass tourneys or something.

The problem with 3D is that you see where the fish are, but unless you have speed and/or willing to chase them, there is no use.  On a lake or narrow body of water, this is probably not a problem.  But on a big body of water, a  side scan will do the job.  It is nice to have, but really just not necessary.

Use the berleypro mount/cover.

I really like my element 7. I’ve played with the 3D on it, but find myself using regular sidescan more. All 3D really does is give you a different way to look at sidescan.

As other have said, you will have to do something besides thru hull or in hull to get the nontraditional sonar readings to work.  I would agree with Yak and just avoid the 3D at this point unless youre fishing bass tourneys or something.

When I was shopping around, the Raymarine Element 7 was the best deal and it just happened to come with w/ 3D. I already own 3 Raymarine Navionics chips from my Dragonfly 7 Pro.  I checked with Raymarine and they said my existing Navionics chips will work with the Element line.  I looked at comparable Humminbird, Garmin and Lowrance, the Element 7 is the best bang for my $$$.  I got the unit below but will use my Navionics Upgraded Chip instead of the LNC2 Chart.

https://www.boemarine.com/marine-navigation-instruments/gps-fishfinder-combos/raymarine-element-7-hv-combo-w-hv-100-transducer-lnc2-chart-w-fishing-hot-spots.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIguKfq4uZ7AIVUr7ACh3HYAIYEAQYDCABEgLH7PD_BwE