Helix 12 questions

Greetings gentlemen,

I've recently purchased a 2017 Ranger 188C, and have been researching electronics. I must say... to the "technologically challenged," it can be quite overwhelming!

I've never been a trolling guy, but a "find & hover" kind of crappie fisherman. I'm proficient at shooting docks, or jigging over brush (considering the fish are present!)

My budget isn't "unlimited," but I like to buy quality and cry only once.

Having said that...

The Solix series is just out of the question. I'm a serious crappie fisherman, but can't justify the cost of those units.

The "next bestest" would be the Helix series.

My initial intention is to put a 12" unit on the console, and a 10" unit at the bow.

My console considerations are the HB Helix 12 Chirp MEGA SI/GPS G2N combo @ +/- $2500 vs the HB Helix 12 Chirp SI/GPS combo @ $1450.

Is the cost of the Mega unit (essentially 1k more) worth the extra expense? If so, what is the justification?

I intend to use the Helix 10 Chirp DI/GPS G2N combo (non Mega) on the bow. My thought process is that I've already located the fish with the bow unit, thus no Mega is needed up front.

Keep in mind that I'll be going with a Minn Kota Terrova OR Ulterra to utilize that awesome spot lock technology.

Oh..... and I've NEVER been a "techie" guy. I've got a phone that's smarter than I am!

It's a very exciting time for me, and TERRIFYING at the same time.

Can an "old dog" learn the new technology?

Many more questions to come, I'm quite sure!

Beavz

HELIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI G2N has CHIRP 2d and CHIRP imaging, 455/800/1200khz DI/SI, and dedicated DI technology ...

HELIX 12 SI G1 has CHIRP 2d, fixed frequency 455/800kHz imaging, and blended DI from SI data ...

Rickie

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Beavz

Greetings gentlemen,

I've recently purchased a 2017 Ranger 188C, and have been researching electronics. I must say... to the "technologically challenged," it can be quite overwhelming!

I've never been a trolling guy, but a "find & hover" kind of crappie fisherman. I'm proficient at shooting docks, or jigging over brush (considering the fish are present!)

My budget isn't "unlimited," but I like to buy quality and cry only once.

Having said that...

The Solix series is just out of the question. I'm a serious crappie fisherman, but can't justify the cost of those units.

The "next bestest" would be the Helix series.

My initial intention is to put a 12" unit on the console, and a 10" unit at the bow.

My console considerations are the HB Helix 12 Chirp MEGA SI/GPS G2N combo @ +/- $2500 vs the HB Helix 12 Chirp SI/GPS combo @ $1450.

Is the cost of the Mega unit (essentially 1k more) worth the extra expense? If so, what is the justification?

I intend to use the Helix 10 Chirp DI/GPS G2N combo (non Mega) on the bow. My thought process is that I've already located the fish with the bow unit, thus no Mega is needed up front.

Keep in mind that I'll be going with a Minn Kota Terrova OR Ulterra to utilize that awesome spot lock technology.

Oh..... and I've NEVER been a "techie" guy. I've got a phone that's smarter than I am!

It's a very exciting time for me, and TERRIFYING at the same time.

Can an "old dog" learn the new technology?

Many more questions to come, I'm quite sure!

Beavz

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Well if you like to only cry once then get both Mega units. As Rickie said the Gen 1 unit has blended di. Once you see the difference you might be sorry you bought the Gen 1 unit. I have been using a Helix 10 si Mega for about 6 weeks now. I was in the missile and radar field for almost 40 years......very familiar with CHIRP technology as is used for target separation. To me having si and di CHIRPed is a huge game changer. I have been able to find shell-crackers just inches off the bottom with the di. With the Helix 10 I can tell you which way the fish are facing........not that it really matters....LOL....but that is just how good these units are. Here are some images......one is of KY bass spread out on bottom and the other is crappie stacked on concrete structure. I look for structure like most......but with the Mega unit if my scan doesn't show fish I move on. Hope this helps shed light on your upcoming purchase.


Regards

Attachment 273527Attachment 273528


Sent from my iPhone using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

I have the same screen sizes you are considering.... but in reverse places. I am close to the screen at the console so I put the Helix 10 Mega there. On the bow I put my Helix 12 Mega so that when I am standing or sitting back in a seat I still have a easy view of the screen. Either way will work great though. I could not justify the Solix units either, but I am extremely happy that I bought the Helix Mega units. Dedicated down imaging and chirp on all sonar screens does make a difference.

Thanks for the reply's guys, what a great wealth of knowledge.

I guess you've all confirmed what I already suspected...

Surely I'll get over the "sting" of the price when I see that screen full of fish on a brush pile.
(that screen shot is AMAZING!:ThumbsUp)

Sure... that doesn't mean they are feeding, but it'll sure be nice to not waste time on unproductive water.
(Now also considering switching positions...)

Exciting times ahead!

Beavz

Very nice units, just wondering where to find the best price.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by chulai1968

Very nice units, just wondering where to find the best price.

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Check with Brian at Bbg marine before you buy great service and good pricing . Is a sponsor as well!

'Birds have come out with some "boat in a box" packages and that could save you some money as well.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Slabprowler

Check with Brian at Bbg marine before you buy great service and good pricing . Is a sponsor as well!

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X2 on Brian at BBG, you have to call Brian to get the best price.


Sent from my iPhone using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

As luck would have it.... I'm only about 18 miles from BBG!

I'll certainly be speaking with Brian.

Thanks for the heads up!

Beavz

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Slabprowler

Check with Brian at Bbg marine before you buy great service and good pricing . Is a sponsor as well!

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Thanks I will do that.