Gps sonar combo with side scan

[Ryab]

Looking to buy a side scan GPS sonar combo, looking on the 500 - 1000 dollar range. Looking at lowrance elite 7ti, helix 7si, simrad go 7xse, Garmin echomap 7 SE. If anyone has experience with these information would be awesome, thanks!

[PRO-V]

I bought the GARMIN Echomap Chirp 73sv last summer and have been very happy with it. Also very easy to store and view your waypoints on your computer. I had been a Lowrance guy for years but happy I made the switch. Got their handheld GPS also.

 

[Ryab]

Awesome! Yea the Garmin is a little cheaper as well

[Cheers]

I am not impressed with my elite

[Caleb S]

I just picked up a Garmin 73SV (non-chirp) for $480 at a local retailer.  Based upon what I could find, it wasn't worth the extra $ to get the chirp. 

[Borch]

On February 9, 2017 at 6:41 AM, Cheers said:

I am not impressed with my elite

I've fought with mine as well.  It's definitely been better with each software update though.

[Cheers]

How did it improve?

[vtx1029]

I've got an Elite 7ti and I'm very happy with it. Not sure what issues others are having. I have an ipad on the other side of the boat and an old kindle on the bow displaying the sonar screen so no more hey what's the depth or seeing any fish from people on board. I also like the trolling motor control on screen.  Has almost the same features as my friends HDS 7  for 1/2 the cost.

 

Edited March 1, 2017 by vtx1029

[vtx1029]

Looks like they just did an update for the Lowrance Ti units that allows you to use navionics Auto chart live. http://www.lowrance.com/PageFiles/148220/ELITE-5_7 Ti 2.5 RELEASE NOTES v2.pdf

 

[John Mickish]

If your budget is up to $1000, look for a Helix 9 or 10 Gen1. No chirp, but they have autochart and you can update to include mapping vegetation and bottom hardness. I ran the Gen 1s last year and was very impressed with them.

 

No matter what you go with, there are some very good sonars from all the manufactures in your price range.

 

My number 1 advice is go with absolutely the biggest screen you can fit and afford. IMO a 7" is the minimum size when you use side imaging. A 9 or 10 inch screen will make you happier.

 

[Borch]

On 2/15/2017 at 6:43 AM, Cheers said:

How did it improve?

Data processed more quickly with improved screen/unit freezes and bottom lock.

[delcecchi]

Testing for redundancy?

[Borch]

5 minutes ago, delcecchi said:

Testing for redundancy?

Dang post hung on me.  Think I might have hit "Submit" a few times.  Should be fixed now.