Humminbird XPLORE 12 CHO Transducer Setup
The Humminbird XPLORE 12 CHO is a control head only package. Choose a compatible imaging transducer for traditional and MEGA Side Imaging, and add MEGA Live 2 separately if you want live sonar.
On this page (6 sections)
The Humminbird XPLORE 12 CHO is a control head only package. You need a compatible imaging transducer for conventional sonar and MEGA Side Imaging, while MEGA Live 2 is a separate addition for live sonar.
The XPLORE 12 name describes the display and control head, but the package suffix matters. CHO, CMSI, and CMSI+ do not mean the same transducer setup.
What does XPLORE 12 CHO include?
CHO is the bare control head option, so don't assume it comes with the transducer included in another XPLORE package. Plan for a separate compatible transducer if you want sonar views beyond what the head can provide on its own.
The right choice depends on the sonar you plan to use. A transducer intended for conventional sonar does not automatically provide side imaging or live sonar.
Before ordering, match the exact XPLORE 12 model code to the package contents and Humminbird's compatibility guidance. Bundle names and available configurations can change, so verify the model code on the box or confirmation.
That HELIX package is not an XPLORE accessory or a substitute for an XPLORE-compatible imaging transducer. It illustrates why you should check what a specific fish finder package includes instead of relying on the control head's family name.
What is the difference between XPLORE 12 CHO, CMSI, and CMSI+?
CHO is the control head only, while CMSI and CMSI+ identify packages with transducer equipment. Compare the exact bundled transducer and its supported views before choosing between those configurations.
The suffix helps you distinguish the package, but the transducer model is the detail that matters for sonar. If your goal is MEGA Side Imaging, make sure the package includes a transducer that supports it, or budget for one separately.
| Package | What to expect | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| XPLORE 12 CHO | Control head only | Which compatible transducer you will add |
| XPLORE 12 CMSI | Package with imaging transducer | Exact transducer model and included views |
| XPLORE 12 CMSI+ | Package with a different transducer configuration | Exact model, included hardware, and supported views |
Don't treat CMSI and CMSI+ as interchangeable shorthand. Confirm their current contents with Humminbird or the seller using the complete package model number.
If you're comparing transducers for side imaging, our guide to the best Humminbird side imaging transducer explains what to consider. For the sonar view itself, read [What Is Side Imaging on a Fish Finder?
The Short Answer](/what-is-side-imaging-on-a-fish-finder/).
Does XPLORE 12 CHO include MEGA Live 2?
No, MEGA Live 2 is a separate live sonar system. An included imaging transducer and a live sonar system serve different purposes, so a CMSI or CMSI+ package does not mean MEGA Live 2 is in the box.
MEGA Side Imaging builds a view of structure to the sides of the boat as you move. Live sonar is intended to show movement around the transducer in real time, which requires the separate live sonar equipment.
If you want both views, plan for the compatible imaging transducer and MEGA Live 2 system. Check Humminbird's current XPLORE compatibility details, mounting recommendations, and required components before you buy.
Which setup fits your fishing?
Choose CHO if you already have a compatible transducer or want to select one yourself. Choose a CMSI or CMSI+ package if its included transducer matches the views you want and is a better fit for your budget.
- CHO: Best when you have a specific compatible transducer in mind or already own one.
- CMSI: Consider it if the exact included transducer offers the imaging views you want.
- CMSI+: Compare its transducer and package contents directly against CMSI before paying more.
- Any XPLORE package plus MEGA Live 2: Consider this route if you want live sonar as well as imaging.
Your boat and mounting plan matter too. Confirm whether the transducer fits your transom or trolling motor arrangement, and follow Humminbird's installation instructions.
Side imaging can help you find structure away from the boat, but it isn't a promise that every fish will be visible. See [Can Side Imaging See Fish?
A Quick Answer](/can-side-imaging-see-fish/) for what to expect from the view.
The Lowrance example shows why a transducer's views and a brand's connector compatibility both matter. Its listed compatibility names HDS LIVE, Elite FS, and Simrad NSS evo3s and GO series, so don't assume it works with Humminbird XPLORE.
The STRIKER 4 is a separate Garmin fish finder, not an XPLORE component. Its included transducer belongs with that package, so it won't answer the XPLORE 12 CHO transducer question.
How should you choose an XPLORE 12 transducer?
Start with the sonar views you need, then verify the exact compatible transducer model. A label such as “imaging” is not enough to confirm the frequencies, views, mounting style, or compatibility you need.
Use this checklist before ordering:
- Decide whether you need conventional sonar, MEGA Side Imaging, or both.
- Check the package's exact transducer model number and included hardware.
- Confirm XPLORE 12 compatibility with Humminbird's current guidance.
- Match the mounting style to your transom, trolling motor, or other installation location.
- Add MEGA Live 2 separately if live sonar is part of your plan.
If you already own a transducer, check its model and connector before assuming it can move to the new head. A physically similar connector or a shared brand name does not prove compatibility.
For more options across Humminbird displays, compare our best Humminbird side imaging fish finders. If MEGA 360 is also on your list, see Can You Use Humminbird XPLORE with MEGA 360?.
Which XPLORE 12 setup should you buy?
Pick CHO when you want to choose a compatible transducer separately; pick CMSI or CMSI+ when the included transducer matches your planned views. Add MEGA Live 2 as a separate system if live sonar matters to you.
The model code alone doesn't settle the decision. Compare the full package contents, transducer compatibility, and mounting needs, then choose the setup that covers the views you will use.
Frequently asked questions
Does the XPLORE 12 CHO include a transducer?
CHO means the XPLORE 12 package is a control head only, so it does not include the imaging transducer bundled with some other XPLORE packages. Check which transducer package you need for your intended sonar views, and confirm compatibility and included parts before ordering.
Does the XPLORE 12 include MEGA Live 2?
No. MEGA Live 2 is a separate live sonar system, not the imaging transducer that may come with an XPLORE package.
If you want live sonar, plan for the MEGA Live 2 hardware and check Humminbird's current compatibility and installation guidance for your setup.
What is the difference between XPLORE 12 CMSI and CMSI+?
CMSI and CMSI+ refer to XPLORE package choices that include different transducer configurations; the control head is still an XPLORE 12. Confirm the exact model code and box contents because the transducer determines which sonar views are available without buying another transducer.
