Elite 5 HDI

[crappie1133]

Many dealers have specials on the Elite 5 HDI. I have a Elite 7 HDI and from the best I can determine, they are very similar in how they can be utilized and the user manual is very similar. This would eliminate the learning curve.I am considering putting one on the back of my boat and mounting the transducer on the transom.I have an extra Hdi transducer so I could really use the "x" model since I have GPS on the front of the boat. Could also buy the unit without the transducer. Would love to hear any comments from anyone in regards to this unit. Good and bad!!!!!!........Thanks, for any comments........crappie1133

[Fish2DMax]

I just got an Elite 5x-HDI (without GPS) and best I can tell is the price of these units dropped like a rock when the new "Chirp" Sonars came out. The 5 or 7 refers to screen size in inches measured across the screen like you'd do your TV. I got mine for $180 along with free shipping online at Cabela's back before Christmas. Go for it and we can compare notes. So far I'm quite impressed with how easy it was to set up and use. Going from an old Eagle Ultra II to this I've jumped well into the future with the down scan images! At default settings I'm seeing balls of shad, brush piles and clear structure off of a transducer mounted on the trolling motor foot. Oh, and one more plus - it comes WITH a transducer. The new ones come without and the transducer is another 100 bucks on top of the $1K unit. Pffft If I ever drop $1K on a fish/depth finder it better come with a transducer.

Some buddies have the Garmin fish/depth finder/plotter and they like theirs too.

[crappie1133]

Fish2Dmax. Tried to send a PM . Guess I did something wrong . Boy, you got a great deal on your elite 5x. I am still looking.I have a elite 7 HDI on the front with a sb-9bl switch to transfer to the transom where I have a HST-WSBL. It will not show but the pre-selected frequency. I am trying to avoid the learning curve associated with a different unit. I am also trying to interpret fish arches and forget fish icons.....and.... I am getting better. I feel I could also be happy with the elite 5x as I have GPS on the front.Not a big user of way points etc....Thanks for your response, hpoe you enjoy the new unit....crappie1133