XSONIC Airmar SS60 (12°)

The XSONIC Airmar SS60 (12°) transducer is a dual-frequency 600 W sounder. It operates at 50 kHz and 200 kHz frequencies.

At 50 kHz, the transducer provides a maximum range of 353 to 366 meters with a wide 45° coverage. At 200 kHz, it detects down to 206 to 213 meters with a narrower 12° beam.

The SS60 (12°) transducer housing is made of stainless steel, making it compatible with all hull types, including fiberglass, wood, and metal.

Airmar’s Tilted Element™ technology features a 12° tilted ceramic element that corrects the hull’s heel angle. This ensures the sonar beam is directed vertically for optimal performance, even on heeled hulls.

The SS60 (12°) transducer is specifically designed for hulls with a deadrise angle between 8° and 15°.

For fiberglass or wooden hulls, a 60 mm (2-3/8") hole is required for installing the SS60 transducer (12°).

For metal hulls, a 70 mm (2-3/4") hole is required for installing the SS60 transducer (12°).

The transducer is supplied with a 10-metre (33-foot) cable and features a 9-pin black connector.

The transducer is designed for flush-mount installation, protruding only 5 mm from the hull, which minimizes water drag.

Yes, the stainless steel housing must be isolated from the metal hull to prevent electrolytic corrosion. An isolation sleeve is provided for this purpose.

It is important to install the depth sounder in an area with smooth water flow, with minimal bubbles and turbulence. Avoid water intake or discharge openings, seams, fittings, or other hull irregularities that could disrupt water flow. Ensure the transducer remains continuously submerged and that its beam is not obstructed by the keel or propeller shaft. Choose a location away from power interference sources and radiation.

Yes, Airmar certifies that applying the Foulfree coating to its transducers does not result in any performance loss. This coating is a non-toxic and durable solution that prevents marine growth from adhering to the surface.

Once applied, the Foulfree coating can protect the transducer surface for up to two years. A 15 ml tube of Foulfree covers approximately 0.09 m² (one square foot) of surface.

The XSONIC Airmar SS60 (12°) transducer is a traditional 50/200 kHz, 600 W depth sounder. Technical documents list Chirp models separately (e.g., B75L/M/H/HW, B150M, SS75L/M/H). The SS60 model is not listed as a Chirp model.

For drilling, start by drilling a 3 mm (1/8") pilot hole from inside the hull. Then use the appropriate hole saw for the outside of the hull (60 mm for fiberglass/wood, 70 mm for metal) and cut the hole from the outside, perpendicular to the hull surface.

Recommended tools and materials include:

Safety glasses, dust mask, hearing protectionAngle protractorElectric drill with 10 mm (3/8") or larger chuckDrill bit: 3 mm (1/8")Hole saw (see specific size chart for hull)SandpaperMild detergent or low-solvent cleaner (such as alcohol)File (for metal hull installation)Marine sealant (suitable for below waterline)Multi-grips pliers (for metal housing installation)Cable glands (for certain installations)Cable tiesAntifouling paint water-based (mandatory in saltwater)

The tilt angle of the transducer (12° for this model) is printed on the top of the unit. It is critical to ensure this angle matches the heel angle of your hull at the mounting location. You can measure the hull heel angle using an angle protractor or a digital level.

Planing hull motorboats: Mid-ship near the centerline, the starboard side of the hull is preferred. Displacement hull motorboats: Well aft, on or near the centerline, and well inside the first set of lifting strakes to ensure water contact at high speed. The starboard side of the hull is preferred. Outboards and sterndrives: Just forward of the engine(s). Inboards: Well forward of the propeller(s) and shaft(s). Deep-V hulls: Just forward of the first chine. Sailboats with fin keels: On or near the centerline and 300 to 600 mm (1 to 2 feet) forward of the fin keel. Long-keel sailboats: Mid-ship and away from the keel.

Yes, the XSONIC Airmar SS60 (12°) transducer includes a water temperature sensor in addition to depth detection.

Yes, it is important never to use solvents. Cleaners, fuels, sealants, paints, and other products may contain solvents that can damage plastic parts, especially the face of the transducer.