HB 997c SI versus 998c SI

[River Rat]

I've been trying to compare notes between the two units and figure out if I'm better off waiting for the newer unit or not.  The "biggest" advantage I've found with the 998 is the 50 channel GPS v. the 997's 16 channel. Am I looking beyond others benefits that are there?  I do like the idea of saving some $$ with the 997, can't lie about that!

Edit: Just saw the 997 has 50 channels for GPS... I would've bet "a buck to a hundred" that I read 16 somewhere.

[LAPORTE]

Maybe Joby from H-Bird can shed some light on this topic ? I couldn't resist the deal on the 997 ... I needed a unit on the console anyways . The 330c Lowrance took a crap on me (the gps still works) the sonar depths are not accurate.


Don L

[Bender]

This was posted by a HB rep. on another site:

"Other than the faster processor and additional Video Out and Ethernet ports the only other difference will be the ContourXD base map. All the other differences (Down Imaging, SwitchFire menu, LakeMaster map card capability and Waypoint Management System) will be available to the 997 with a software update. "

And here is a comparison chart of the units (minus the 998): http://sideimagingsoft.com/ComparisonChart.htm

Edit: I believe that the 997s came with the 50 channel GPS starting early 2009.

[River Rat]

Don - I keep wondering what all that structure we found along "our little secret" channel really looks like!  Man am I geeked to get back out in the spring.  I finally and sadly lost the battle to the weather and took my boat to Lake Drive to get 'er tuned and winterized for the winter.  The bonus is that they are fabricating and installing a step for my front deck, a recessed t/m pedal tray, and a third battery and new charger so I don't keep running out of juice in the early afternoons!

I like how Seth explained his using the two units at the console and I'm going to give that a try next year.  Looking at his success and experience versus my lack-of the same, I'm always open to ideas!

Back on topic, I like the saving money route but as with all technology, am I better off getting the "latest and greatest"?

Scott

[Cy]

One thing to keep in mind.  You can upgrade the 997 with the 50 channel GPS antenna.  I think the antenna is about $150.

[Joby @ Humminbird]

This was posted by a HB rep. on another site:

"Other than the faster processor and additional Video Out and Ethernet ports the only other difference will be the ContourXD base map. All the other differences (Down Imaging, SwitchFire menu, LakeMaster map card capability and Waypoint Management System) will be available to the 997 with a software update. "

And here is a comparison chart of the units (minus the 998): http://sideimagingsoft.com/ComparisonChart.htm

Edit: I believe that the 997s came with the 50 channel GPS starting early 2009.

Bender is right on the money on this quote. The 997 will have the same features as the 998 with a software upgrade. The only thing the 997 will not have is video output and the faster processor speed. Outside of that no difference. The 997 will have the same features with a free software upgrade. One other thing with the software upgrade the unit will be Lake Master Compatible.

[River Rat]

"Other than the faster processor and additional Video Out...

Let my lack of knowledge run rampant: is this for connecting to a PC or video camera?  Can I hook it to my TV to show my friends and family when I get home that all the little fishies are safe and still swimming around without being harmed by my hooks?!

Edit: I should have also thrown the 898 into the equation/question from the start, how does this rate in comparison to the 997 v 998 other than the smaller screen?  Joby's gonna need a raise after all this... I do appreciate all of the information from everyone, thx.

[BryanP]

The 898 will have the same features as the 998 only with a 7" diagonal screen instead of the 8". 

The new 800/900/1100 series also have an ethernet port for future expandability.  997 does not have this.

[River Rat]

Can someone explain how the "video output" will work for the new 998/898s?  Sorry for so many "?'s" but I'd like to know before dropping that kinda change, ya know?!

Scott

[LAPORTE]

My 997 Came in the mail today.... me very happy  now If it were only warm. brrr

Don L

[River Rat]

My 997 Came in the mail today.... me very happy  now If it were only warm. brrr

And you got your BASS Open confirmation in the mail today?!?!  What the heck happened?  Did you get called to a burning manger and save baby Jesus on your last fire house duty?!

[LAPORTE]

Not quite....lol but last night we were out on 13 different calls. Busy night.... 

[Bender]

Can someone explain how the "video output" will work for the new 998/898s?  Sorry for so many "?'s" but I'd like to know before dropping that kinda change, ya know?!

Scott

I've been thinking about this and the only thing I can come up with is adding a screen at the bow. Then you don't have to buy a second unit and when you are on the trolling motor you could set the chart speed slow (1) and be able to see what is out there. Turning the unit around on a Ram mount is confusing since it is backwards left to right. I wonder if the video out shows exactly what is on the whole screen?