Raymarine has introduced new Axiom+ multifunction displays, which will replace the company’s original Axiom line. Along with the upgraded units, Raymarine also debuted its own new proprietary LightHouse Charts that can be maximized with an add-on Premium subscription.
Available in 7-, 9-, and 12-inch models, the Axiom+ features a quad-core processor and ultra-bright IPS screen (25 percent brighter than previous models). Raymarine has also introduced a HydroTough coating to the new displays to repel water and oils as well as deliver improved touch control.
Axiom+ comes with four built-in sonar channels, including RealVision 3D, and an ultra-sensitive 10 Hz GPS/GNSS receiver for more accurate positioning. The units will employ the latest operating system — Lighthouse 3.12 OS Dartmouth — which includes new fonts and graphics, fish alarms, a distance ruler and an edge-swipe menu for audio controls.
Prices for the 7-inch display start at $749; 9-inch Axiom+ models start at $1,099, and 12-inch versions start at $2,499. Retail sales begin today.
The networkable Axiom+ units feature increased onboard storage (up to 16 GB) and can display Navionics and C-MAP charts as well as Raymarine’s new LightHouse Charts, created using official hydrographic sources. Designed for both recreational and professional applications, the charts allow captains to switch between a more stark government-style presentation and a more feature-flush leisure view.
The new charts also come with four flexible color modes for day, dusk, night and “super day” (ultra-bright conditions). Users can also adjust the size of channel markers and other icons on the screen for easier viewing. For anglers, Raymarine employs its Fishing Hot Spots data to provide 1-foot depth contour lines. Those who want to make their own contour charts can use RealBathy personal sonar mapping.
To access continuous chart updates, expanded points of interest and enhanced satellite imagery, captains can option up to a LightHouse Premium subscription. Benefits include high-resolution views of shorelines and shallows, a rich index of POIs, and the ability to update and purchase charts as well as sync premium content with Axiom units via the free RayConnect mobile app.
LightHouse Charts come preloaded on new Axiom+ displays. The maps will be available for purchase in the third quarter at raymarine.com/marine-charts. Chart prices start at $79; a North American bundle will cost $149.99 and comes with 12 months of Premium for free. (After the first year, an annual Premium subscription costs $99.99.)
