Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer Review

Let’s Talk About Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer

The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer is a crucial piece of equipment for any boater who values accurate speed and distance-through-water readings. Manufactured by Raymarine, a well-respected name in marine electronics, this transducer promises reliable performance and seamless integration with compatible instruments. I’ve spent years navigating various waterways, from coastal inlets to open ocean, and accurate speed data is essential for everything from optimizing fuel consumption to safely navigating currents.

My previous speed transducer, a plastic through-hull model from a less reputable brand, proved unreliable after only a few seasons, particularly in areas with heavy marine growth. This led me to search for a more robust and dependable solution. The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer caught my eye due to its bronze construction, promising better durability and resistance to fouling. The Raymarine name further solidified my confidence in its quality and accuracy.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the substantial weight of the bronze housing. It felt solid and well-constructed, a far cry from the lightweight plastic of my previous transducer. The 45-foot cable also appeared robust and properly shielded. Initial inspection revealed clean machining and precise threading, indicating a high level of manufacturing quality.

I considered the Airmar B744V bronze through-hull transducer and the Garmin GST 43, but ultimately chose the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer because of its seamless compatibility with my existing Raymarine ST60+ instrument display. This compatibility promised a straightforward installation and integration process, minimizing potential headaches. I was excited to install the transducer and finally have a dependable speed log back online.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer to the Test

First Use Experience

The installation required hauling my boat out of the water, which is always a bit of an ordeal. I tested the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer on my 28-foot sailboat during a weekend trip to the Channel Islands off the coast of California. The transducer was installed in a location that provided a clean, undisturbed flow of water.

Performance was immediately impressive. The readings were stable and consistent, even in choppy conditions and varying sea states. There was a noticeable difference in accuracy compared to my previous transducer, especially at lower speeds.

Ease of use was excellent. Once the transducer was properly connected to my Raymarine ST60+ instrument display, it began providing speed readings without any complicated setup procedures. No initial calibration was needed, and everything worked directly out of the box, which was a pleasant surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer has proven to be a reliable and accurate performer. I’ve sailed in various conditions, including strong winds, heavy seas, and prolonged periods of motoring. The transducer has consistently provided accurate speed and distance data.

Durability has been outstanding. The bronze housing shows no signs of corrosion or wear, even after being exposed to saltwater and marine growth. The cable remains flexible and intact, without any cracks or damage. Maintenance is straightforward. Occasionally, I clean the paddlewheel with a soft brush to remove any accumulated marine growth, which is a simple and quick process.

Compared to my previous transducer, the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer far exceeds expectations. It’s more accurate, more durable, and requires less maintenance. This transducer provides me with the data I need to make informed decisions about navigation and fuel management, enhancing my overall boating experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer

Specifications

• Compatibility: The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer is designed to work seamlessly with Raymarine ST70, ST60+, and ST290 instruments. Users with these existing systems will experience plug-and-play functionality.

• Hull Material: The transducer is compatible with both wood and fiberglass hulls. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of boats.

• Cable Length: A generous 45-foot cable is included. This provides ample length for routing the cable to the instrument display, even on larger boats.

• Hole Diameter: Installation requires a 2-inch hole. Be sure to confirm the hull thickness and choose the correct mounting hardware.

• ST70 Compatibility: When used with the ST70 instrument display, the separate purchase of an ST70 Speed Pod is required. This adds an extra cost and must be considered during purchase.

• Color and Material: The bronze color indicates the durable bronze construction of the housing. Bronze is an excellent choice for underwater components due to its resistance to corrosion and marine growth.

These specifications are significant because they directly impact the performance, ease of installation, and long-term reliability of the transducer. The bronze construction ensures durability, while the 45-foot cable provides flexibility in installation. The compatibility with specific Raymarine instruments guarantees seamless integration, making this transducer a logical upgrade or replacement for existing Raymarine systems.

Performance & Functionality

The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer excels in providing accurate and reliable speed and distance-through-water data. This information is crucial for navigation, fuel management, and overall situational awareness. The transducer’s paddlewheel design efficiently translates water flow into accurate speed readings.

The primary strength of this transducer lies in its accuracy and stability. Even in challenging conditions, such as rough seas or strong currents, the readings remain consistent and reliable. A potential weakness is the need for occasional cleaning of the paddlewheel to remove marine growth, but this is common to all paddlewheel-type speed transducers.

Overall, the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer meets and often exceeds expectations for a high-quality marine speed transducer. Its performance is a significant improvement over cheaper, less reliable alternatives.

Design & Ergonomics

The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer features a robust and well-engineered design. The bronze housing provides excellent protection against corrosion and physical damage. The transducer’s weight reflects its solid construction, giving confidence in its durability.

Installation is relatively straightforward, assuming the user has basic mechanical skills and the appropriate tools. The 2-inch hole diameter is a standard size, making replacement of existing transducers easier. The long cable provides flexibility in routing to the instrument display.

Durability & Maintenance

The bronze construction ensures the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer is built to last. With proper care and occasional cleaning, it should provide years of reliable service. The bronze material resists corrosion and degradation from saltwater exposure.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning of the paddlewheel. In areas with heavy marine growth, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. The transducer is easily accessible for cleaning by retracting it into its housing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer comes as a standalone unit, with no additional accessories included. There are no specific customization options available for the transducer itself. Compatibility with Raymarine instrument displays is the primary consideration.

While there are no direct accessories for the transducer, its compatibility with various Raymarine systems allows for integration with other marine electronics. This includes chartplotters, autopilots, and radar systems. This integration enhances the overall navigation and situational awareness capabilities of the boat.

Pros and Cons of Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer

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Who Should Buy Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer?

The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer is perfect for boat owners who demand accuracy and reliability from their speed log. It is an ideal upgrade for those with existing Raymarine ST70, ST60+, or ST290 instrument systems. Sailors and powerboaters who value precise speed and distance data for navigation and fuel management will benefit greatly from this transducer.

Those on a tight budget might consider cheaper, plastic transducers. If seamless integration with existing Raymarine systems isn’t a priority, other brands may offer comparable performance at a lower price.

No must-have accessories are needed, but regular cleaning tools, like a soft brush, are essential.

Conclusion on Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer

The Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer is a high-quality, reliable, and accurate instrument that provides essential speed and distance-through-water data. While it represents a significant investment compared to plastic alternatives, the superior durability and performance justify the price for serious boaters. The ease of integration with Raymarine systems further enhances its value.

I would personally recommend the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer to anyone looking for a dependable and long-lasting speed transducer. If you value accurate navigation and fuel management and want to avoid the hassle of frequent replacements, this transducer is an excellent choice. Invest in the Raymarine M78716 Bronze Speed Transducer and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable and accurate speed log on your boat.