Topic: 899SI should I update to XHS 9 HDSI 180 T or keep stock?

[georgejr]

Just read on here that a upgrade transducer is available for $70 buck or so from humminbird.  I haven't mounted the transducer yet (supplies come in this week to do so).  Is it worth the $70?  I see retail the price between the XHS 9 HDSI 180 T and XNT 9 HDSI 180 T are not very different in cost.  Looking for those with experience and what do you find your using?

I will be fishing Mostly shallow waters 20 ft or less but do sometimes get into deeper water.  Live near Winnebago in WI.

[rnvinc]

1st...there is no XNT 9 HDSI 180 T...

There is the stock xducer for your 899ci HD SI Combo....XNT 9 SI 180 T (83kHz/200kHz 2d, 455kHz SI)
There is the "upgrade" hi-def xducer for your 899..XHS 9 HDSI 180 T (83kHz/200kHz 2d, 455kHz/800kHz SI)....
________________


Here's the difference in 455kHz vs 800kHz....

The 455kHz is brighter all the way to the edges of display ...but the overall image is fuzzier...
The 800kHz is clearer closer to the boat....but darker out to edge of the display...



Having the ability of both allows seeing structure farther out to the sides on 455kHz...then re-position the boat to scan closer with the more detailed 800kHz...

Is it worth $70....I think so...absolutely...

Rickie

[georgejr]

I'm assuming this would increase down image clarity as well.  Thanks for the quick reply.

[Bob B]

There currently is a software issue with the 899 that causes problems with the 800Khz........but I would also recommend upgrading.....They will get the software issue resolved, and even the 455Khz should be a little clearer with the HDSI transducer because it has longer elements.

The DI should be enhanced the same as the SI, since the DI on an 899 is derived from the SI signal.

[bobcoy]

Just a note on exchange. Package must still be sealed to do the exchange.

[georgejr]

Thanks for the information and about the 800 software issue.  I had them ship me out a new one and will credit back the difference once mine makes it to them.  Glad I saw a few posting about it I was thinking they changed the design to be more compact but didn't know they stripped down the ducer for cost savings.  Thanks again everyone love this site!

[JDX]

I just received my 899 to companion my 898. My plan is to upgrade the TD to the HD SI. The TD is not sealed in plastic just loose in the box, I can tell was never spliced. I read that to exchange the TD must be in original packaging.
   Can  someone please verify if their  TD in their 899 box was sealed in a plastic bag ? I am concerned that this box was opened. Thank you !!

[bobcoy]

The 2 I got with my units were sealed.

[Arby2]

I just purchased a model 788 and an 899 within the last 6 months and both packages had the transducer coiled/zip tied and loose in the bottom of the boxes. The mounting hardware was packaged in a bag I did not open. I have already exchanged the 788 transom type for a trolling motor style without any problem. I finally decided, after2 months going back and forth, to upgrade to the HDSI transducer for my 899. I just sent it back last Thursday.
Hope this helps,
                      Ron

[JDX]

Thank you Ron

That does help, maybe packaging has changed. Thank you both for your help !  I have been moving my 898 from bow to console for budget issues, but got sick of that real fast !!

[georgejr]

Mine was loose but the hardware was in a bag.  When I called for the exchange (I did a outright purchase and return to speed up the process) they wanted to be sure it wasn't mounted which was the case.  I told them the hardware bag did have a small tare in the corner but all parts were in the bag and was only done to see how it would mount before learning about the exchange and that this ducer wasn't the same as the 899.  They stated that wasn't a problem and as long as no markings that it was mounted and never used I was good to go.  I haven't mounted the new on yet but really glad the group here talked about it.  Price difference was $85 to upgrade plus shipping of the old one back to them.

[JDX]

Thank you ! I sent mine in today. Customer service at HB is great.

[Arby2]

I just got an e-mail notice this morning that my upgrade transducer has been shipped so all went well again. As you say, Humminbird service so far has been great!

Arby2