Humminbird Side Imaging Forums
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: rehartline01 on August 20, 2015, 10:57:22 PM
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I'm considering upgrading from my 797. I don't have any real issues yet other than it's getting old and I would rather be proactive. I fish saltwater inshore the most and don't have any special requirements like networking. That being said, I was looking at the Helix 5 in the store and read about the upcoming Helix 7. Then I saw the 899 for $100 more than the Helix 7 si and started thinking about it. I realize the 899 is last year's model and won't be supported as long as the Helix 7, but if's a year or so difference it's not likely to be that big of deal.
Your opinions and experience with either unit is greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Rob
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899ci HD SI ...:
*Fully networkable ...
*2 SD Card slots ...
*3 favorite preset keys ...
*Can take advantage of the added 800kHz HD frequency of the upgrade XHS 9 HDSI 180 T ...
Helix ..:
*Not networkable in any configuration ...
*1 micro SD Card slot ...
*No favorite preset keys ...
*Can take advantage of somewhat better 455kHz SI with the XHS 9 HDSI 180 T ... But cannot utilize the added 800kHz HD frequency ...
Rickie
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I would go with the 899 and upgrade to the HDSI transducer....Humminbird will exchange it if you contact them before opening the packaging on the transducer (for an upcharge). You will get a sharper image with the HDSI transducer.
It is very handy to have the 2 card slots and preset buttons ..... You never know when you might want to add another unit and network them.
The Helix 7 does have a brighter ... high NIT screen, which will help in direct sunlight, but the LED backlit screen on the 899 is pretty good too.