GPS/Sounder

[FreeBeeTony]

Looking into purchasing a GPS.......maybe a combo GPS/Sounder like the Garmin 178.<br /><br />Any opinions out there?

 

[JB]

Re: GPS/Sounder

What do you want it to do and what do you want to spend, Tony?

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: GPS/Sounder

I just want a simple chartplotter for the GPS...for nightime or fog navigation, want the chartplotter to show bouys. Might even treat myself to a color unit.<br /><br />As far as the sounder is concerned, I am really looking for a depth finder.....haven't had much luck using them as "fishfinders".<br /><br />Was thinking of ~$500........if possible.

 

[jstcrzyengh]

Re: GPS/Sounder

Not 500, but I am picking up the Furuno GPS7000NT.. Excellent unit

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: GPS/Sounder

little too much $$$$$$$........<br /><br />How about the Garmin?

 

[jstcrzyengh]

Re: GPS/Sounder

Garmin makes a good unit as well. I have their 72 as a backup, but I have only used Furuno for my main electronics. Some would argue Garmin or Furuno for GPS, I say go with what your comfortable. Fish finders Furuno hands down, GPS its between the two IMO

 

[whiteman]

Re: GPS/Sounder

I'm not a fan of combos as I like to see as much info as possible on my sounder and plotter at the same time, particularly when looking for fish as they are usually parked in a small area and you need to make a few marks in a small area to get over the school.<br /><br />That said, any good quality sounder, like the Lowrance X125/X135 will clearly show fish arches when set on "auto", even in deep water. These are great units at a very good price. Colour is the best way to go for a chartplotter and Garmin, Lowrance, Navman, etc make really good units. Go for the best pixel count you can afford in both units. A 5" screen is sufficient size.

 

[seamegr]

Re: GPS/Sounder

FreeBee, I know it is above 500.00 but it is the unit I have experience with.<br /><br />I have a Garmin 276C with a GSD20 sounder module. The 276C is a great unit, well supported by Garmin with regular no charge OS updates. The Bluecharts cover my particular boating areas so you should make sure that electronic charts are available for whatever brand you buy. Colour is the way to go.<br /><br />I also use it on the road and would never be without an autorouting GPS again.<br /><br />I will buy Garmin again.<br /><br />Greg