Lowrance HOOK-7x CHIRP

The HOOK-7X CHIRP is one of the discontinued Lowrance fish finders. One of the newer models is the HOOK2-7x. For reference, this is the part number 000-12660-001, the 2016 unit, the one that includes the HDI skimmer.

Key Features and Specifications

• Screen: 7″ diagonal, 16:9, 800H x 480V pixel matrix, 16-bit color TFT, with adjustable backlight
• Sonar: 2D CHIRP and DownScan
• Depth Capability:
  • 1,000 ft (305 m) for the CHIRP sonar
  • 300 ft. (91 m) for DownScan
• Frequency and Coverage:
  • 200 kHz (20°) / 83 kHz (60°) for standard CHIRP
  • 455 kHz for DownScan, fore to aft. 4°, port to starboard 57°
  • 800 kHz for DownScan fore to Aft 2°, port to starboard 38°
• Transducer: Transom, number 000-10976-001
• Power Output: Max 500 Watts (RMS)
• Power Input: 10-17 VDC
• GPS: No
• Maps: No
• Routes, Waypoints, Tracks: No

Sonar and transducer functions

The transducer supplied with this unit is the 000-10976-001, in other words, the HDI Skimmer transducer. It’s capable of 83/200/455/800 kHz frequencies, integrates a temperature sensor, and comes with 20′ (6 m) of cable. Also, it’s supplied with a transom mount.

Now, since this particular transducer is a pretty old model, you’re probably wondering if the unit can use CHIRP with it. The answer is “Yes”. Broadband and CHIRP can be accomplished with the same transducer, the only difference is how the signal from the transducer is processed by the sonar model within the control unit. Therefore, since the HDI Skimmer transducer is capable of 83/200 kHz for 2D, the unit will be able to use High and Medium CHIRP. Also, one important aspect to underline here is that this unit can also use CHIRP for its 2D sonar. It doesn’t use CHIRP for DownScan imaging.

CHIRP offers a better view of the targets under the boat. In fact, it provides a superior target separation, and images with considerably less clutter. On top of that, it uses Advanced Signal Processing (ASP), which reduces the need to manually adjust the settings to see fish, bottom details, and structure.

For 2D, the transducer uses conical beams, with angles of approx. 60° for 83 kHz and 20° for 200 kHz. On the other hand, for DownScan it uses thin sonar beams, between 2° and 4° fore to aft, and 57° wide for 455 kHz, 38° for 800 kHz. The HOOK-7x is a dual-frequency unit, meaning that it can scan with both 2D sonar beams simultaneously, and you can view both returns in split-screen. The unit actually allows the view of 3 panels simultaneously.

The maximum depth capability of this unit, with the supplied transducer, is 1,000 ft (305 m) for 2D, and 300 ft (91 m) for DownScan. Also, the unit should be able to read bottom at speeds up to 70 MPH. However, the clarity of images at such speed would be really poor. That’s why the recommended speed for optimal bottom reading and a maximum of targets, is between 1-7 MPH.

Just like the HOOK-7 GPS unit, the HOOK-7x one offers several useful, sonar-related functions. Among them, we can enumerate DownScan Overlay, TrackBack, A-Scope, Fish ID, Bottom Lock etc.

DownScan Overlay is a function that allows you to combine the power of DownScan with the power of CHIRP. In other words, you can blend DownScan with the 2D view, in order to have a different view of the fish targets in relation to the bottom and structure. However, take note that by using this function you’ll still not have true CHIRP DownScan.

Fish ID is a function that assigns fish symbols to the suspended targets, which the unit interprets as fish. Evidently, not all these targets will be fish, but still, this is a great function to use in case you would want a second opinion regarding a specific target or groups of targets. This function is available only on the 2D sonar and not DownScan.

TrackBack is basically a sonar recording feature. This function gives you the possibility to record your sonar feed and have another look at the sonar history if necessary. This function can actually save you a lot of trouble. For example, you won’t have to turn the boat around to re-scan a certain area if you want a second look.

A-Scope or Amplitude Scope is a function that displays the amplitude of the most recent echo. The Flasher view is the circular sonar mode, best to be used for stationary fishing. Also, the unit offers alarms functions for shallow waters and fish symbols. The Fish Alarm is available only when using the Fish ID function.

Control unit features and functions

As its name suggests, the HOOK-7x is a 7-inch display unit. It features a 16-bit TFT color display, with a pixel matrix of 800H x 480V. The screen is LED-backlit and actually features 11 levels of backlighting. In other words, readability is excellent even in direct sunlight.

The unit is IPX7 waterproof, which means it can withstand incidental water exposure. In other words, rain or water splashes shouldn’t be a problem for this unit, as the screen and connectors are tightly sealed.

This unit doesn’t feature a microSD card reader since it doesn’t have any charts and GPS. However, it does offer NMEA 0183 connection possibilities.

Last but not least, the unit comes with the quick-release mount. However, a unit cover is not included.

The Pros

• Powerful 2D CHIRP sonar;
• DownScan imaging for a crystal-clear view;
• Possibility to combine both DownScan and 2D via DownScan Overlay;
• HDI Skimmer transducer included;
• 16-bit color display;
• Adjustable backlight for superior readability;
• Split-screen view up to 3 panels per view;
• Sonar recording;
• Automatic noise filtering;
• Various functions included, such as Fish ID, A-Scope, Bottom Lock etc.
• NMEA 0183 support;
• Fairly easy to install;
• One year warranty.

The Cons

• No unit cover.

Summary

The Lowrance HOOK-7x is a unit for anyone who doesn’t need GPS or charts but does want CHIRP and DownScan sonar technologies, and imaging on a 7-inch display. The unit comes with one of the best Lowrance transducers. It’s great for just about any type of boat, except maybe for kayaks, and large, professional fishing boats. Considering that it costs less than $400, and comes with a transducer that costs more than $100, the package features an excellent price/quality ratio.