Topic: Need advice deciding what to buy

[Bob B]

Hi, I'm new to this forum, but have been reading a lot trying to decide what to buy this spring after the 2011 models are fully exposed.

Right now I am thinking either the 898c si or the 2011 700 model with true DI and si.. 

The price difference for the 700 is appealing, but I know bigger is better, especially for split screens.
I have seen conflicting specifications about the power output of the 898.  Some places say 8000 watts peak to peak and others say 4000.  Does anyone know what is correct?  I believe the new 700 series has 4000 watts peak to peak.
What difference in performance is going to be seen with the lower power output?
Also, concering built in GPS VS external.  I see that a lot of people prefer the external so it can be placed as close as possible to the transducer.  Is there any difference in accuracy?

Thanks for any advice offered.

[Wayne P.]

The accuracy between the internal and external antenna is the same as far as returning to the antenna position waypoint. In relation to a waypoint chosen by using sonar, the antenna that is above the transducer will get you back to that particular waypoint with greater accuracy.
You won't have that choice with the 898.

If you read the specs closely, you will not get the use of 8000 watts unless you use the 1kw bronze 2D thru hull transducer. Take a look at that transducer on the Humminbird web site to determine if you want to use it.

[Bob B]

Thanks for that info.  I hadn't realized the full power wasn't utilized for the side imaging transducer. 

The new 788ci is supposed to be HD resolution.  I think the previous 700 series was lower resolution also.

Anyone know what additional connectivity will be available with the new ethernet?

[Wayne P.]

The new 788 HD will have a 640 X 640 pixel resolution display as well as the present, 788c, 778c, 798ci SI and 798c SI.  The present 728 has the same pixel per square inch display but a narrower screen.

The "HD" is just processing somewhat like the HDS Lowrance units use and none of their units have an equal high resolution display. The HB 800,900, and 1100 series units don't either.

The 640 X 640 pixel resolution displays are the highest in the industry in the number of pixels per square inch.

 

[Bob B]

I am starting to refine my thought process. 

I am thinking that the 2011 788ci may be the way to go to get started with the side imaging and GPS technology.  This would allow me to find out for a cheaper price if the technology is going to work for me, then if I like it, I could move the 788 to the front on a trolling motor mounted transducer and get a bigger unit for the console.

This would also give me the opportunity to use the 788 unit on my small boat for trolling motor only lakes since it has a built in GPS antenna.  (There is a new really hot state  lake in Illinois. That won"t allow a boat that has a gas motor on it whether you intend to use it or not.)

If I use software such as the Yellowfin I have seen talked about in other forums, will the 788 output to this software be virtually identical to one of the larger side imaging units?
If so, I would be able to view recordings offline on a large screen.


What would I be sacrificing other than size if going with the  2011 788ci VS a 900 or 1100 series unit?
Also, would I still be able to connect an external antenna to the 788ci?

Thans for any insight.

[Wayne P.]

You won't  "get started with side imaging" with the 2011 model 788. It will be DOWN IMAGING and 2D

[Bob B]

Wow, I got confused on that one......here is what I saw on another site that caused me to think it had side imaging.

788ci HD DI Combo
For crystal-clear results even in the murkiest water, reach for the powerhouse, High Definition Humminbird 700 Series, featuring a 5" diagonal screen, amazing 640V x 640H pixel clarity and unbeatable color and contrast. Packed to the gills with technology, this high-resolution fishfinder boasts an array of advanced features that will have you on the fish in no time.

With exclusive Humminbird SwitchFire, Side Imaging and Down Imaging Technology, you have more fishfinding options than ever. SwitchFire Sonar lets you choose your underwater view, see every detail or just the returns you want. It's the first sonar that adapts with your fishing conditions.Programmable preset buttons put your favorite views at your fingertips,and dual card slots provide top-notch flexibility on the water. Mount it in-dash, or with our Tilt & Swivel Quick Disconnect Mounting System. Connect to another Humminbird fishfinder for sharing of sonar, GPS and waypoints at blazing Ethernet speeds. There's no doubt: the 700 Series brings it all into focus.

W

[Wayne P.]

LOL, I see how you may have gotten mis-informed. SI and DI "technology" is the same. The unit model number tells the tale.

[Wayne P.]

Another note: you can get the present 798ci SI or 798c SI for less than the 2011 788 HD DI and have some real experience with Side Imaging and Down Imaging.

A Google search for those models will get you some good prices too.

[Bob B]

Thanks Wayne,
Looks like you have the 798ci si.  Are you happy with it?
Do you use it to record and view offline?

Guess I better take a close look at the 798 discussion.

[Wayne P.]

Yes, Bob I am very pleased with it. I do make recordings and take snapshots for viewing on my computer.
I have helped others with the operation of their 798 and larger size units and prefer the combo 2D/DI view that the 798 has when fishing. The larger screen units have that combo view beside each other and the 798 has them one above the other which is easier to understand.
Here is one of the thermocline in timber:

[Bob B]

I like that view also.  I think the 798 is the unit I will get.  The 898 looks good also, but I want the internal antenna on the first one I buy so I can use it on my small boat also.  The 898  also may not have the view you showed above. 
The only reservation I have with buying one right now is that they don't have the new ethernet connectivity. 
Wondering if the 2011 798 will have the ethernet.

[RzorbackAngler]

I think the new 700s series will support ethernet.  However, I would verify that with HB.  I know my 898 already has ports to support ethernet.

[Bob B]

The info on the 2011 models is starting to come out, but I haven't seen anything about what the 798 will look like. 
It does look like there will be a software update to enable the ethernet functionality on the 898 and others.
 I am also watching to see if the previous si models are able to be upgrade to utilize the new "true downimaging".
As with anything using high tech, it will be obsolete 10 minutes after you buy it.  Even though Humminbird is pretty good about software updates, some of the new technology is based on hardware.

[TazzMan]

I just tried out my new 898 c si unit today.  I just took the place of sliced bread.  I also have the new minn kota powerdrive V2 with ipolit.  I went all out on my boat this time.  Wish I had done it sooner. It is worth every penny.

[Bob B]

I'm going all out on a new boat also.  I've got one in the works that is going to have the Terrova 24v with I-pilot.  I am just getting a basic depth finder on it till I figure out what to do for the GPS / si.  I should be getting the boat in about a week.  Should have the rest figured out by spring.

One of the big reasons I am going Humminbird is because Johnson Outdoors owns both.  Sure would be nice if they would have that ethernet connection on the Humminbird talk to the I-pilot so you could record and store extra tracks and send them to the trolling motor, or send it a waypoint, get close with the main motor and then have the trolling motor take you to it quietly.

I think 2012 will have a lot more innovations also, and it is important to get a unit that will be upgradeable instead of having to start over.....These toys are expensive.