Humminbird releases new Xplore and MEGA Live 2.0

**rnvinc** · 11-19-2024, 01:01 PM

The announcement was made at Metstrade in Amsterdam 11-19-24 ... so everything is in the language used in Amsterdam ...

As soon as I get a valid link in English I will post it here ...

There is discussion at bbc Humminbird forum under the thread titled “Anything new coming” (with some translating into English) ...

Translated links don’t post here at CDC well, so I have to find an English release announcement that will post here correctly ...

Rickie

**rnvinc** · 11-19-2024, 01:27 PM

Here is a copy and paste of the translated version of the released Metstrade announcement ... :

Humminbird Xplore and Mega Live 2.0 unveiled at Metstrade

Humminbird unveiled two exciting new products for 2025 at Metstrade , the major boat show in Amsterdam: a new series of fishfinders/plotters called Humminbird Xplore and the highly anticipated Mega Live 2.0 transducer.

The new Humminbird Xplore series is a touchscreen chartplotter/fishfinder combo that replaces the Solix series and part of the Helix.
1. Available in three screen sizes:

9 inches (1280 x 800 pixels)
10 inches (1280 x 800 pixels)
12 inches (1280 x 800 pixels)

2. Touchscreen: Following in the footsteps of the Solix, the Xplore series features a touchscreen. This feature provides a more intuitive and interactive user experience. The non-touch screen of the Helix was criticized, it was necessary to align with competing models.
3. New Mega Side Imaging+ and Mega Down Imaging+ probes: While the Xplore monitor is still capable of operating 800kHz, the probes supplied with the Xplore (e.g. sh-a-140t) no longer include the 800kHz frequency. This frequency was rarely used because on deep waters 455kHz is essential, while in shallow water the mega frequencies are unbeatable. The Xplore transmission power remains 1000w RMS like the Helix and Solix.
4. Software and connectivity compatibility: The Xplore series uses the same software as the Apex series and benefits from the same screw-in connectors, ensuring increased robustness and reliability. Two microSD ports are present on the front.
5. Networking: Xplore echo sounders can be networked with Solix G3 and Apex models, providing optimum flexibility and integration for users. Networking components include WiFi, Bluetooth and an Ethernet port.
6. End of production of the Solix series: It is important to note that the Solix series is no longer produced and is therefore at the end of its commercialization. As of 2025, the Humminbird catalog will include the following models:

Helix 5G2, 5G3, 7G4(N), 9G4N and 10G4N
Xplore 9, 10, 12 inch
Apex 13, 16, and 19 inches

7. Price: The MSI+ versions in the rear panel will be offered at €1999, €2749 and €3399 for the 9, 10 and 12 inch versions. Available in early 2025, the date remains to be specified.

The Mega Live probe is upgraded to version 2.0, bringing significant improvements:
1. New electronics and new design: Everything has been revised to offer superior performance, including a new design and updated electronics. It is suitable for use at sea.
2. Prospecting modes: Four possibilities for operating the live probe.
Down : View detailed images of structure and fish swimming below the boat.
Forward : Prospect from a distance to discreetly locate and see your lure several meters from the boat.
Landscape : Wide vision to gather information around the boat in shallow water.
Open Water : To be used for pelagic fishing, this mode focuses on locating fish located between two waters.
3. Superior range : With this new mode called “Open Water”, the Mega Live 2 probe provides increased visibility up to 50m, allowing a better view of the lures on the screen, even at a distance.
4. Compatibility : Only the Xplore, Solix G3, and Apex series will have sufficient power to operate this new probe which, in the absence of a black box, requires a processor with high computing capacity. The ML2 is supplied with mounting and cables.
5. Price : Offered on release at a recommended retail price of €1,999.00

Editor's note

These two new products are welcome breaths of fresh air for the hummingbird brand. The Xplore replaces the Solix in its range while keeping the Helix still in the catalog but which will no longer be upgradeable because they are unable to connect to the new Mega Live 2 probe.
This Mega Live 2 arrives full of promises, it rebalances the game with its two competitors Garmin and Lowrance, particularly on the range. The new Open Water mode is interesting for large environments and pelagic fishing.
The first deliveries will arrive in early 2025.

Rickie

**Roy** · 11-19-2024, 07:02 PM

Sounds interesting. I'm A HB guy but their Mega Live just didn't work for me no matter how hard I tried as compared to Garmin or Lowrance. I hope the latest version is great but I have to see hard proof before even thinking about one. I've own all 3 versions from the major manufacturers, I'm very happy with my Active Target 2 from Lowrance.
Would love to see this be a great product from HB. Would only force other companies to keep pace.
Thanks for posting this information.

**rnvinc** · 11-20-2024, 12:02 AM

Note: In the translated verbiage I posted above, the term “probe” is the translated word for “transducer element” ...

I’m still searching for an English version link to the announcement ...

(Thanks Ed for deleting that mess of a first version of this thread)

Rickie