Side Imaging Options

[jeffg213]

Hey guys. I just joined the forum and this is my first post. I currently have an elite 7hdi on the bow and an elite 5hdi at the console. I have all the GPS and sonar I need right now but would like to add side imaging at the console. I've read a little bit about using the helix 5si and that people are swapping out for the better transducer. What would you guys do in my position? should I sell the elite 5 and go for a decent humminbird unit? I would like to keep it under 500. Thanks in advance.

[Wayne P.]

The Helix 5 SI GPS is $499 MSRP and is available for less with some phone calls to marine electronics dealers.

It has GPS/Mapping. There is no non-GPS Humminbird unit with Side Imaging.

What you will gain is the Lakemaster mapping capability which is exclusive to Humminbird.

 

The transducer swap is to get sharper Images, but you may not notice any difference. It is sort of subtile.

The larger transducer does not add any functions to the unit. It is about a $85 exchange not counting shipping the one that comes with the unit back to Humminbird.

I notice the difference since I have and use both.

 

I would suggest you keep the Elite 5 for GPS mapping so you can have full screen sonar with the Helix all the time as you navigate.

[jeffg213]

Thanks for the advice. I had thought about doing that with the 398ci since its so cheap but I know I would not be happy with the tiny screen. I guess the helix would be the next least expensive option.