XSONIC Airmar SS60 (12°)

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

At 50 kHz, the depth sounder 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 incorporates 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 insulation sleeve is provided for this purpose.

It is important to mount the depth sounder in an area where the water flow is smooth, with minimal bubbles and turbulence. Avoid water intake or discharge openings, strakes, 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, 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).

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 hull exterior (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 chuckBit: 3 mm (1/8")Hole saw (see table for specific hull sizes)SandpaperMild detergent or low-solvent cleaner (e.g., alcohol)File (for metal hull installation)Marine sealant (suitable for below the 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 heel angle of your hull using an angle gauge or a digital level.

Planing hull motorboats: Well aft, on or near the centerline, and inside the first set of lifting strakes to ensure water contact at high speed. Starboard hull side is preferred.Displacement hull motorboats: Mid-ship near the centerline, starboard hull side is preferred.Outboard and sterndrive/inboard: Just forward of the engine(s).Inboard: Well forward of the propeller(s) and shaft(s).Stepped hulls: Just forward of the first step.Sailboats with fin keels: On or near the centerline and 300–600 mm (1–2 ft) forward of the fin keel.Sailboats with long keels: Mid-ship and clear of 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, particularly the face of the transducer.