Sonar/GPS Units...opinions

[erikrs301]

I'm looking for a decent sonar/GPS combo for in the $500-$700 range. Trying to avoid drilling holes in the transom and decks with external antennas and transducers so I'd like a thru-hull and internal GPS antenna. So far I've found the Lowerance LMS-334c and LMS-339c units. I checked the out at Cabelas and they are the screen size I want.<br /><br />Anyone using these units? Any opinions about Lowerance combos? I'll be using it in everything from clear to murky freshwater and brackish water on the Chesapeake, all less then 200 feet deep.

 

[AndyL]

Re: Sonar/GPS Units...opinions

The Lowrance units are very easy to operate and view in daylight. What you ought to do is to go to a dealer and view different units with the mapping in them for your area and see which give you the best picture for your area. Different manufacturers use different chart systems, eg Navionics, Blue Chart or C-map. Be aware that with Navionic Gold charts and Lowrance units there is a software clash which Lowrance still have not resolved.It is very difficult to save a waypoint using the manual suggested method WPT/WPT without resizing the screen. I have a 335CDF which is a real pain and have been liasing with Lowrance for nearly 2 years to effect a fix. Apart from that it is a brilliant unit with good display and easy to operate.

 

[jaybirdtx]

Re: Sonar/GPS Units...opinions

For the price range you desire the 334c or 332c are ideal. The 332 now comes with a base for the antenna, allowing you to remove it if necessary. Both have shoot-through transducers. If you want water temp a shoot-thru will not be accurate. The EP35 temp sensor is used then. Both units maps are not very detailed, but Lowrance has a few lakes and their surrounding areas available for free @ their web site. We sell a lot of Fishing Hot Spots brand maps. Usually cover a 6-10 state area and are very detailed. Remember though, the GPS module needs to be mounted in a clear area of the boat. Away from any power wires or other electronics. That is the only draw back with the 334c.