Raymarine A80312 Dragonfly 4/5/Wi-Fish Extension Cable for Transducer/Power vs Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer

Design and Build Quality

The Raymarine A80312 Dragonfly 4/5/Wi-Fish Extension Cable is primarily an accessory cable designed for transducer and power extension, whereas the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer is a complete transducer unit with sonar capabilities. The Raymarine cable measures four meters in length and comes in black, weighing 6.0 pounds, with package dimensions of roughly 2.54 cm by 28.956 cm by 20.32 cm. It is manufactured in the United States, which may be reassuring for buyers prioritizing origin. In contrast, the Lowrance SplitShot is a versatile transducer that can be mounted in various ways and offers advanced sonar technology but does not have explicit package weight or dimension details available. Essentially, the Raymarine product’s design focuses on connectivity and extension, while Lowrance provides a functional sonar transducer unit with built-in temperature sensing.

Compatibility and Application

The Raymarine A80312 extension cable is specifically made for Dragonfly CPT-DV/DVS transducers, supporting models Dragonfly 4, 5, and Wi-Fish. It serves as a power and transducer cable extension, vital for users needing to increase the distance between their fish finder and transducer. On the other hand, the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer is compatible with Lowrance HOOK² fish finder models in 5, 7, 9, and 12-inch sizes. It is designed as a flexible transducer solution that can be mounted on the transom, inside the hull, on a trolling motor, or through a scupper hole. This makes the Lowrance more adaptable for various boat setups, while Raymarine’s product is limited to extension purposes for specific Dragonfly transducers.

Sonar and Imaging Capabilities

In terms of sonar performance, the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer clearly stands out by offering multiple sonar views, including DownScan sonar for straight-down imaging and CHIRP sonar for fish arches. This dual-functionality provides wider sonar coverage with a cone angle that doubles the coverage compared to traditional fish finders, which is highly beneficial for anglers seeking detailed underwater images. Conversely, the Raymarine A80312 is not a sonar device but an extension cable, so it does not provide any sonar or imaging functionality on its own. It supports the sonar capabilities of the Dragonfly transducers but does not independently contribute to imaging enhancement.

Installation and Ease of Use

The Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer is designed for easy installation with multiple mounting options such as on the transom, inside the hull, on a trolling motor, or through a scupper hole. This versatility simplifies setup in a variety of boat types and fishing conditions. The Raymarine extension cable, while simpler in concept, is essentially a plug-and-play accessory that extends the connection between the Dragonfly transducer and the fish finder unit, requiring minimal installation effort. However, it only serves one purpose and its installation depends on the existing Dragonfly transducer setup, making it less versatile but straightforward for those who need an extension.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Raymarine A80312 Dragonfly 4/5/Wi-Fish Extension Cable is significantly less expensive at C$84.40 compared to the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer, which costs C$139.93. The price difference of approximately C$55.53 reflects the distinct functionalities: Raymarine’s product is an accessory cable, while Lowrance offers a multifunctional sonar transducer with advanced imaging capabilities and temperature sensing. For buyers who only need a cable extension for their Raymarine transducers, the lower price presents good value. However, those seeking enhanced sonar performance and versatility may find the higher-priced Lowrance unit worth the investment.

Additional Features

The Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer includes a built-in temperature sensor, which adds an extra layer of valuable data for fishing enthusiasts monitoring water temperature. This feature is not present in the Raymarine extension cable, which is focused solely on power and signal extension without any sensory capabilities. Aside from this, the Raymarine cable’s notable feature is its four-metre length, providing flexibility in equipment placement. Lowrance’s product, meanwhile, integrates multiple sonar technologies and mounting options, making it a more feature-rich and multifunctional device.

Brand and Manufacturer Reputation

Raymarine is a world leader in marine electronics, known for producing a comprehensive range of marine electronic equipment, including transducers and accessories. The Raymarine A80312 extension cable reflects this reputation by being a dedicated accessory for their Dragonfly transducer series. Lowrance, on the other hand, is widely recognised for its innovative fish finders and sonar technology, with the SplitShot transducer exemplifying their advanced imaging and ease-of-use focus. Both brands are well-established in the marine electronics market, but Raymarine’s product here is a supporting accessory, whereas Lowrance’s offering is a core sonar component.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Raymarine A80312 Dragonfly 4/5/Wi-Fish Extension Cable and the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer depends on your specific needs. If you already own a compatible Dragonfly transducer and simply require a four-metre extension cable to increase your setup’s flexibility, the Raymarine cable at C$84.40 is the logical and cost-effective choice. However, if you are looking for a versatile transducer with advanced sonar imaging—including DownScan and CHIRP sonar views—along with the convenience of multiple mounting options and an integrated temperature sensor, the Lowrance SplitShot at C$139.93 offers more functionality and enhanced fishing data. Ultimately, the Raymarine product supports existing equipment, while the Lowrance unit upgrades your sonar capabilities and adaptability on the water.