Down scan imaging comparison.

[paublo25]

Ok not sure if this is the correct place but I'm looking for anyone with experience with different brands (Lowrance, Garmin, Raymarine, & Humminbird). I'm looking for one with really good imaging for seeing structure like submerged trees and such. Looking at Lowrance hook 5, Garmin, & Raymarine Dragonfly 4. The unit will be installed on my kayak so I'm not looking for anything big. The main focus would be for finding underwater structures for sacalait. I'm looking for information about the images compared between these units. Also looking at which unit is compatible with which aftermarket maps like Navionics and Louisiana Geaux card.

Tell me and pros and cons you have experienced.


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[C-Bass2mouth]

Hbird helix 5 di gps. Try universalmania.com or thedigitaloasis.com

They usually have really good prices

You could probably bump up to a 7" for what money you'd save.

I run lowrance units but I'd advise the helix for the price and pic clarity.

If you're in a kayak and not at idle speed you probably won't have as clear of a picture as you'll see them advertise as far as down imaging.

I've never used a Garmin or ray marine, but they both seem to have really high quality screen resolutions. Again, I think the speed of your yak will prob still effect the down imaging pic. I actually would get one that had regular 2d sonar too for that reason.

The helix 5 di gps will work with mapping chips also. I know navionics, and lake master cards (I think it's a micro sd slot, so the bigger sd cards won't work) are compatible.



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[paublo25]

Thanks for the info, I actually never thought about not moving fast enough may effect the image.

[Top Dawg]

The helix5 also has a portable unit u can attach the transducer to the side of your yak and take it off after done fishing. I think it suction cups.

[fonikoddity]

I have a Garmin 43dv on my outback and I love it.


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[2specksdown]

Any one using la1 standard map software on there Lowrance unit?

2015 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DENALI DURAMAX 4*4

[C-Bass2mouth]

Originally Posted by paublo25

Thanks for the info, I actually never thought about not moving fast enough may effect the image.

It doesn't effect the down imaging as bad as it does the side imaging at slow speeds. But still, it'll recommend idle speeds for best pic quality

[paublo25]

Is this the HBird you are talking about?
http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/humm...dCatid=3879549

[cajun bill]

Originally Posted by 2specksdown

Any one using la1 standard map software on there Lowrance unit?

2015 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DENALI DURAMAX 4*4

I have an Elite 7" with La. One mapping software and love it. Seems like looking at their physical maps.

[captfields_sc]

Been using raymarine's lineup of products for the last 5 years or so and have been plenty happy with the results. The chirp sonar, down and side scan (pending on unit model) are top notch and require little to no tweaking at all when it comes to settings. Very little escapes my sight on the nicely lit screen and paired with my navigational charts (platinum+, nav+, regions) it has been a very trustworthy fishing machine. Very nice with the sonar charts which give me a heads up and a good direction of effective areas to use the down and side scan. Check them out, especially with the new axiom series coming on the market soon.

[marshrunner757]

I am on the verge of ordering a 7 pro. My only hesitation at this point is I want the transducer on my TM and their bracket is expensive. I really like the fact I can link my smart phone via WiFi.

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[wishin i was fishin]

Guys, after researching this any Lowrance, Raymarine, or Humminbird will do you good. Humminbird and Raymarine both are licensed to use the same technology that Lowrance has a patent on. So with the same technology, it is down to price and personal preference with the units.

The only one that is out of the running is Garmin. They chose not to license with Lowrance, developed their own, and lost a patent infringement lawsuit with Lowrance. to save you alot of technical jargon, rest assured, you will be satisfied with your Lowrance, Raymarine, or Hummnbird purchase.

If technical jargon is your thing, start a new thread and i will fill you in.