The puck is to get it up to par with the HB 4x speed pluck. The HDS pluck is 1x speed. The HDS surpassed the HB if you get the 5x LGC pluck. Being able to put the pluck as close to the transducer as possible is a huge advantage in my option if you want to be right on top of the structure.

Yes, all you need is the ethernet cable now. It was made available in a software update last year. That will save you some money.

As for as the wires go... I didn't want two transducer wires going to the bow of my boat.. then routed one to LSS-1.. then having to find a place to put the dang LSS-1.. then wires from there to unit. Also if I wanted to upgrade to LGC pluck I needed nema wires and wire it up... With HB you got one wire to tranducer, two power, and one to GPS. It takes away having to wire to the Lss-1 and one less wire to the bow. Not much difference... especially if you have the room to mount it. I really didn't have room.

If you compare apples to apples... The HDS is always about $400 more. But like you said... What is $400 more.. ha..

I wish I could have both! Both have there advantages. The maps of the Lowrance seem to excel but I got my fingers crossed for some Lake Master maps of the southern states soon... I can dream right??? ha

DoubleG