Hello...
This is my first time here. I hope this goes well.
I am an intermediate user of a HB 998. Cool unit. I put it on a 17/52 Alweld with a 40 HP outboard jet. I did a lot of research last year before I bought it. All was successful at getting it set up and working properly. I have been very happy with it.
I bought a new boat for this coming season and my son is buying my older boat. He will inherit the HB 998.
I just bought a new HB 1199 through Amazon today to put on my new boat. With the $300 rebate on a new 1199 units and the good price from Amazon, I could not pass up going to a larger unit. My install on the new boat will be almost identical so I am not anticipating any problems. However, I have a few questions.
1. I bought the 1199 mainly for the larger screen. The 998 is good but sometimes the screen seems too small. I assume I will be happier with the bigger display. I just need someone to confirm that assumption.
2. The HB 998 has the external GPS antenna. The 1199 has an internal. I have read pros and cons to both. Can the new 1199 accept the external gps antenna? I assume it can but I cannot find anything to confirm that 100%. I am considering installing an external antenna in the rear where I will place the transom mount transducer.
Let me know when someone gets a chance.