Humminbird gps/sonar units

[Chris Barlage]

Are the hd units worth the money to spend to get the switchfire technology or would I be just fine with the non hd versions. Looking at getting a unit. the prices stores have on the non hd units are very tempting but I saw a video on the switchfire technology and looks pritty cool. Its about a $200 differance right now. What do you guys think?

[kg2]

You will have switchfire on the older units or the HD series. In fact all you are gaining with HD is the ability to network with ethernet when comparing like models with or without the HD name designation.

[TSchultz]

The 597 non hd will not run a lakemaster chip.

[kg2]

You are correct. The older (non HD) screen was also only 4.5" diagonally versus 5" on the newer HD.

[Chris Barlage]

As of right now I am looking at the 788ci and 788 ci hd

[kg2]

Then the only difference is the ethernet networking.

[dairyman]

I have the 788ci and really like it--------I don't really use the switch fire mode that often. Really haven't seen a need for it yet. I bought the unit at Reeds in Walker on a year end sale. I have the newer version of the lakemaster chip and with the gps feature its been great. I'd buy the unit again

[remington 300]

chris, dont know if you've made the purchase yet, but i saw an add for

gander , there on sale now for 449.00 pretty good price on these units,it for a 788ci

just an FYI,

mike,

[Wish-I-Were-Fishn]

I was told the HD 788ci has a faster processor then the non HD one does. Allows map to update faster. True, or not?

[Chris Barlage]

chris, dont know if you've made the purchase yet, but i saw an add for

gander , there on sale now for 449.00 pretty good price on these units,it for a 788ci

just an FYI,

mike,

Yup I got mine from Gander. I am glade that I made one more look at everyones HSOforum before i baught it at reeds. Got it out on sunday and really like the unit. Just got to get used to reading the screen now and learning what is what that scrolls on the screen.

[Eric_Kruger]

Does that mean were gonna go chase some panfish Chris? lol

[Craigums]

Chris was it easy to install? I'm buying a boat in a week or two and the seller is taking the electronics. Im going to need to put something in its place

[Chris Barlage]

Yes it was easy to install. The hardest part is transducer placment and after you find the right spot to put it the install is no big thing.

Eric you are 1 trip behind, but yes I am ready to go chase fish.