J_Pearson Posted October 22, 2009 Posted October 22, 2009 I'm sorry if I'm posting this topic in the wrong forum page, but I couldnt quite figure out where it belonged. I've done some research on various gps charts/ sonar graph combos and I'm very interested in Lowrance's HDS systems. Particularly, I'm interested in the HDS-5 model, because as a starting gps I see it as a good fit. I was wondering if any forum users had used tried out the HDS systems and what your thoughts were on them? I've played around on it a few times now at the tackle-store and I'm really wanting to get one this fall/ winter to play with. Thanks, JP Quote
aarogb Posted October 22, 2009 Posted October 22, 2009 Me and my dad have got one our boat. Pretty nice system, the countour lines that that are on the GPS are not extremely detailed so I suggest getting a Navionics chip or something similar. Also, the Shaded Relief feature is pretty cool also. Should be pleased with it if you get one. Quote
Super User K_Mac Posted October 23, 2009 Super User Posted October 23, 2009 I have the HDS5 with Lake Insight and a 5X on my boat and have been very happy with them. I recommend getting the unit with Lake Insight and trying it before you add any software. The detail it provides is good enough for me. These are the first high end units I've owned so my frame of reference is not that great, but I looked around a while before I bought. The sonar graphics are awesome. Good luck. Quote
HPBB Posted October 23, 2009 Posted October 23, 2009 have on on my tracker and love it. great unit. still figuring out all the features Quote
Five-Alive Posted October 23, 2009 Posted October 23, 2009 I can tell you that I want one!! A guy at a local tackle shop was telling me about one of his customers that has the larger HDS with the structure scan and he said the graphics and clarity at which you see the structure either from the side or with the down scan (not sure if my terminology is correct) is just amazing. This particular guy has 2 units linked with the structure scan and had about $5000 tied up in it though. I hope to end up with the HDS5 that you mention. Quote
Mike 12345 Posted October 23, 2009 Posted October 23, 2009 I have the HDS5 with Lake Insight and a 5X on my boat and have been very happy with them. I recommend getting the unit with Lake Insight and trying it before you add any software. The detail it provides is good enough for me. These are the first high end units I've owned so my frame of reference is not that great, but I looked around a while before I bought. The sonar graphics are awesome. Good luck. X2 I just got an HDS 5 / Lake Insight on my boat as well. My brother and I took it out on a trip to Guntersville a week ago for the first time, and it definitely did not disappoint. I really enjoyed the GPS and Lake Insight features.......the unit guided us right to a stump field with Lake Insight, and looking on the sonar, sure enough, there they were. Really cool units if you ask me. My only regret is that my budget did not allow for a larger unit. Quote
TrailerHook Posted November 9, 2009 Posted November 9, 2009 I have the HDS5 with Lake Insight and a 5X on my boat and have been very happy with them. Just to clarify....you have the 5x (sonar only) mounted on the bow and the HDS5 (sonar/gps) at your driver's console? If so, how is this working out for you? I was thinking of getting the exact same set-up. Quote
Super User K_Mac Posted November 9, 2009 Super User Posted November 9, 2009 Yes, that is my set-up. I could not be happier with how well these two units work, and have had no problems with interference between the two. I had a tough time justifying the cost when I refurbed my boat. I usually shop closer to the lower-end when I buy fishing equipment. I don't regret the decision. Good luck. Edit: If your budget allows the bigger HDS-7 is very nice. 8-)The bigger screen just makes a GPS/sonar split-screen easier to view. Not necessary, but a good upgrade IMO. Quote
TrailerHook Posted November 9, 2009 Posted November 9, 2009 Yes, that is my set-up. I could not be happier with how well these two units work, and have had no problems with interference between the two.I had a tough time justifying the cost when I refurbed my boat. I usually shop closer to the lower-end when I buy fishing equipment. I don't regret the decision. Good luck. Edit: If your budget allows the bigger HDS-7 is very nice. 8-) Yeah, I would like to have the HDS7 at the console and maybe the 5x at the bow, but money is a consideration. If only it grew on trees. : One more question. Have you had any issues with moisture inside either of your displays? It seems like I have seen several complaints about this posted on this forum and others around the internet. Is this a common problem with the Lowrance units? Quote
Super User K_Mac Posted November 9, 2009 Super User Posted November 9, 2009 I've read the reviews and complaints. I can only speak for my units and the two a friend has on his boat. I have fished in hard rain several times over the last few months. The guy that has the other two units (an HDS-7 and 5X purchased early this spring) works midnights and fishes at least couple of days during the week and most weekends. He had some trouble unrelated to water. The unit would freeze up once in a while, and need to be turned off to re-set. Lowrance sent him a new unit (took a couple of weeks). I bought mine knowing of his problem (and the resolution) and have had no trouble with mine. 8-) Quote
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