I currently have two Humminbird units on my boat. One is a 798CI HD SI (with side imaging). The other is a 788CI - no side imaging or down imaging.
I have the two units networked together with a Humminbird Interlink unit.
The screen on the 788, which is on the bow, is problematic. If it heats up too much, it goes gray, and the only way to get it to work again is to remove the unit from the bracket, let it sit and cool down and then power it back up. Removing it from the bracket is the only way to get it to power down.
I've spoken with Humminbird customer service and I was told that the screen is bad and needs to be replaced. But, they no longer stock parts to repair that unit
So... I either need to find a used 788CI that's in good working condition or replace that unit completely with something new. The catch to that is that I will lose my network and will have to go back to marking waypoints on my front unit and then going and marking it on my console unit too. A pain in the butt.
It also means having to lay out some cash for a new unit that I'm not really prepared to do quite yet.
So I am in homework mode right now, window shopping and reading tons of reviews.
I have looked at the Humminbird Helix units but I'm unimpressed. They are quite expensive and only the most expensive models offer networking. And I have read some horrible reviews on them. Additionally, they don't come with a trolling motor mount for the transducer. They also don't come with a cover for the screen. So this means laying out additional cash for things that should come with it when you buy it.
I've started looking at Garmin units, which I have heard some great things about. They also seem very reasonably priced.
I've also heard some good things about Raymarine. But I haven't price shopped them yet.
I know Lowrance is also an option, but I have heard a LOT of horror stories about their customer service and the reliability of their units. So I am inclined to avoid them based on that.
What is everyone else running and what are your honest opinions of the units you have? Please be honest with your feedback. If you love them, tell me why. And even if you love them, tell me what you dislike about them.
If you hate them, tell me why. Tell me everything you can, if you don't mind taking the time to write it here.
Any and all feedback and opinions are greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.