Electronics

[mikesmiph]

The very first thing I need to do for the new boat is upgrade the electronics. Mostly I want GPS and maps. I don't have unlimited funds at this time. I'm pretty well set on the Matrix 5 with GPS and DI. I used to have SI and never really used it. Any reasons why or why not? Any other suggestions? I've always been a H-Bird guy. Think I'm too old to learn new tricks, so I'll most likely stick with that brand. Thanks guys.

[dartag]

HB Helix 7 with DI.    I have side imaging and really only use it to find stuff on the bottom of the lake.  Not sure I have ever seen a bass.   
https://www.humminbird.com/productCategory.aspx?id=7117

[fishstick]

Helix 7 would be a great option for you, if you ever want networking capabilities get a G2N. I would really encourage SI if you are going to be fishing unfamiliar waters ever or really want to get into your electronics. I can gather way more information (and way faster) with SI than either 2d or DI. SI reveals all the little turns in the weeds and on the contours. All depends on if you want to spend the time to use it, if you just want to go out and enjoy time on the water fishing it probably isn't necessary. Good luck!

[LAPORTE]

Mike

I have a Lowrance LCX 27 if you want it... Its older but works fine... GPS with sonar but no down imaging

[32eml24]

What Jeff said

[WishingIwasfishing]

HB Helix 7 with DI.    I have side imaging and really only use it to find stuff on the bottom of the lake.  Not sure I have ever seen a bass.   
https://www.humminbird.com/productCategory.aspx?id=7117

Helix 7 would be a great option for you, if you ever want networking capabilities get a G2N. I would really encourage SI if you are going to be fishing unfamiliar waters ever or really want to get into your electronics. I can gather way more information (and way faster) with SI than either 2d or DI. SI reveals all the little turns in the weeds and on the contours. All depends on if you want to spend the time to use it, if you just want to go out and enjoy time on the water fishing it probably isn't necessary. Good luck!

I agree 100% with the 2 above post.

I just upgraded my boat with the helix 7(bow) and 10 on the counsel. They are amazing!! I am still learning all the possibilities(I have them linked to my Ulterra). Couldn't recommend them enough!!

[thedude]

Unless you get the mega imaging, i don't think HBs are worth it -especially the smaller screens. Most notably, there is a ton of wasted space and i find them annoying to look at. I think the lowrance units do a better job all around - aesthetically and functionally. The SI/DI is better (with exception of mega imaging).

i went HB to lowrance a few years ago and the only reason i would consider going back would be to get mega - which i'm sure lowrance will copy in the next year anyway.  just my 2 cents.

Not by any means saying HBs are junk or anything, i think you'd have a hard time buying any graph that isn't beyond adequate these days. I stare at mine a lot and just feel lowrance are the best deal going.

FWIW - i've run HDS gen2s - 10, and 7,9,12 touches on my boat. I think the 7" gen 2 touch is one of the best all around graphs out there - even compared to the new stuff.  Excellent picture quality, fast and has all the "premium" features you don't get in some of the lower models - you can get them very reasonably also.