LiveSonar technology changed forward-facing sonar forever, but if you’re looking to upgrade your setup or get into live imaging for the first time, you’ve likely stumbled across two terms: LiveScope and LiveScope Plus.
While both systems run off the same core black box module (the GLS 10), the difference comes down to the transducer itself. The original LiveScope system uses the LVS32 transducer, while the upgraded LiveScope Plus features the LVS34 transducer.
Whether you’re chasing open-water crappie, scoping shallow bass, or dropping down through the ice, here is a detailed breakdown of how the two compare.
The Core Differences: LVS32 vs. LVS34
| Feature | LiveScope (Original LVS32) | LiveScope Plus (LVS34) |
| Target Separation | Standard live imaging resolution | 35% better target separation |
| Image Clarity & Detail | Good structure definition; occasional screen noise/ghosting | Sharper resolution, significantly less screen noise |
| Dead/Weak Zones | Minor blind spots near transducer transitions | Eliminated "weak zones" for seamless coverage |
| Transducer Size | 5.37 inches long | Slightly larger (6.4 inches long) |
| Color Palettes | Full LiveScope palette support | Full palette support with vivid modes |
| System Compatibility | Requires GLS 10 Black Box | Requires GLS 10 Black Box (drop-in transducer upgrade available) |
Key Improvements in LiveScope Plus
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35% Improved Target Separation
The single biggest upgrade in the LVS34 is image crispness. You can easily distinguish individual fish in a tight school or tell your lure apart from small twigs and brush branches. Where the LVS32 might show a clump of fish as a single blob, the LVS34 separates them into distinct targets.
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Reduced Screen Artifacts & Noise
Garmin redesigned the internal element array in the LVS34, drastically reducing "ghosting," beam lines, and surface clutter. This gives you a cleaner image without having to constantly tune your gain settings when moving between shallow and deep water.
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No More Weak Zones
The original LVS32 suffered from slight "stitching zones" or blind spots where the three internal sonar elements met. The LVS34 smooths out those transitions, providing continuous target tracking from directly beneath the transducer out to your maximum forward range.
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Better Shallow-Water Performance
Thanks to the clearer target definition and reduced noise, the LiveScope Plus excels in under 10 feet of water where ground-reflected sonar noise used to plague the original system.
Can You Upgrade Just the Transducer?
Yes! If you already own the original LiveScope system with the GLS 10 sonar box, you do not need to buy a whole new system. You can buy the LVS34 transducer separately, plug it directly into your existing GLS 10 box, update your chartplotter software, and instantly enjoy the LiveScope Plus experience.
Which One Should You Buy?
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Go with LiveScope Plus (LVS34) if: You want the absolute sharpest target separation, fish shallow cover often, or want to pick out individual panfish in thick brush piles.
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Go with Original LiveScope (LVS32) if: You are on a strict budget, buying used/discounted, or primarily target larger predators (like open-water striper or lake trout) where ultra-fine target separation isn't strictly necessary.
Ready to gear up your boat or ice rig? Check out our full lineup of Garmin electronics, bundles, and mounting accessories right here at TackleDepot.ca!