Thread: Big Decisions

I bought a 12T late this past summer, it's a great unit. The first couple of times I had it out I got a ton of finger smudges on the screen from playing with it. It' not a issue now that I'm familiar with it. It was kinda like my first real girlfriend, I couldn't keep my hands her til the new wore off. The auto contrast on the structure scan works great, I seldom mess with it. This unit is by far the fastest and the easiest to make adjustments of any I have ever used.

I'm not sold yet on Spotlight Scan or 360 yet, from what I've seen there are only a couple people getting fair images with the 360. Spotlight Scan is not in the hands of the average fisherman yet but I suspect the images will be similar to the 360. IMO this technology is in it's infancy and will improve, so I'll wait until it's at least a toddler before I buy in.

Another thing to consider is do you want to buy the LATEST technology.

I bought an 1197 on a good closeout sale when the 1198's were coming out. The 1197 has been a great unit, but if I had it to do over again I would have bought the 1198.

Things are changing a LOT this year.......the 1198 is being replaced by the 1199, which has a faster processor and lower MSRP. No doubt the 1198 is a great unit, but I would seriously consider the 2014 model......Maybe even take a good look at the ONIX. It is going to be more expensive, but really looks like it is going to be a great unit. It has a dedicated DI crystal, it will do touch or buttons, the touch features appear to be more advanced than the 12 T.
I would go with the 1199 or the ONIX.
I'm sure you've seen Kosmo's 360 posts. With the 360 and the heading sensor GPS, you should be able to throw away your marker buoys.

Thanks for the input guys, keep it coming. I read 40 sumpin pages earlier today on the 360 and I am on the same page with you I think the new models will be the way to go. Will the 360 work with the OINX?

Originally Posted by Rees Guide

Thanks for the input guys, keep it coming. I read 40 sumpin pages earlier today on the 360 and I am on the same page with you I think the new models will be the way to go. Will the 360 work with the OINX?

Transom mount...
http://store.humminbird.com/products/629914/AS_360SSI

Bow mount...
http://store.humminbird.com/products/677780/AS_360_TM

360 Imaging™
Now at a retailer near you!
Humminbird’s 360 Imaging™ provides a complete around-the-boat, underwater image with the same sharp detail anglers have come to know with Side Imaging® technology. With a single sweep, 360 Imaging has the ability to cover a 300-foot diameter circle (70,685 square feet). Maximum depth is 150 feet.
This optional accessory DOES NOT replace your standard Side Imaging transducer, it enhances your product. You must use standard transducer in order to have a digital depth reading.
This product includes the AS GPS HS (GPS Receiver with Heading Sensor, standard 360Imaging transom mount bracket and a 20' Ethernet Cable.

FOR USE WITH:
1198c SI
998c HD SI
998c SI
898c HD SI
898c SI
798ci HD SI
Minn Kota Maxxum®
Minn Kota Fortrex

I'm sure the the 360 will also work with the new xx99 SI series units...

It should also work with the new ION and ONIX series SI units....

Rickie

Yes......There is a thread on that same board about the ONIX and Doug is starting to get some images up. So far this thing looks really good.
It has yet to be seen if they have solved the SI range problem that is the result of a dedicated DI crystal. Doug is trying to get some shallow water SI shots.

You would have an amazing setup with the Onix, 360, and I-pilot link. If you want to troll following a contour or a group of waypoints, the I-pilot link is the way to go.
I don't know how long you can wait. The ONIX is not scheduled to be available til February.

Got a tourney in Feb but I have a couple of Lowrances on the boat rite now so I may just wait it out. Also like the thought of idling around with the 360 and scanning an area, lot to think about but not in a hufe hurry as I wont be back on the water much till Feb anyway.

Hey , I usually just get stuff for entertainment. I know I can make the Lowrance spotscan pan right, pan left, full sweep, or horizon sweep (like an aircraft radar) with the click of a button. And I ain't ever seen one of the boogers. I learnt a lot when I usta polish astronauts boots.