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Looking for the latest and greatest electronics for the front of my new to me Ranger. Previous owner did not have a unit mounted. Know nothing about hummingbird as I have 2 Lowrance units on my other boat which I can't work either so figured I would give Hummingbird a try on this one.
I need a unit that has structure scan and down and side imaging with a screen big enough for old eyes to be able to see. What do you recommend?
Some of the better informed folks will be along soon with info on what units are recommended. But in the meantime I will make a suggestion: When you get your unit(s) check in with Rickie (screen name = rnvinc) for both the installation and his excellent training that will get you right up to speed on how to PROPERLY use the units. Worth every dollar spent.
Well, QT ... these old eyes (72) have a Garmin 93sv / Livescope setup for "visuals" and a Hook 7 (DI) for Down Imaging/Maps/Waypoints mounted at the bow. Not too much of a "learning curve" to use either one, even in my advanced age ... and I have yet to remorse about not having a SI capability. (my deal with Brian@BBGMarine did not include a transducer for the 93sv, because I intend to use the unit strictly for Livescope fishing)
I have a Helix 9 on the console a helix 7 on the bow. I can see both well and I have had retinal surgery.
I also have a Hooh2 7 on my john boat.
I can't tell you which is the best. As they all have problems. When it gets hot (95 degrees) the hook2 shuts down. I have had the Helix 9 into repair twice now as it quits showing water temperature. And the Helix 7 is problematic in 10 to 20 feet of water and showing a double echo. I can mostly get around that by setting a bottom depth. But, truth is they all have/had problems. I can't write about Garminas I don't have one. They do make a great dog collar though!
What kind of TM do you have? The HB SI models provide all 3 technologies; Dual Beam, Side Imaging, and Down Imaging. If you want the latest, may want to wait until later this year and maybe use a cheaper model in the interim. The rumors are flying that there will be new models announced later this year. I would recommend talking with a board sponsor like Bryan at BBG Marine and he might be able to provide some insight on availability or possible upcoming changes. For the bow, I would not recommend anything less than a 9 or 10" model....bigger is better for older eyes...LOLQuote:
Originally Posted by Quailtail