Elite chirp or Hds??
Gents, I am tossing up which sounder to get for my 5m tinny. I won't be going very deep, just around Cockburn sound, garden island etc with the occasional trip out to the 5 fathom
So was going to get a HDS5 with navionics maps, but now I see I can get an elite chirp 7 with maps for only a little more. I like the idea of the larger screen, so how do they compare? Am I losing much technology or features by going with the chirp 7?
Anyone using the 5 and find the screen size an issue? And is there any sort of base map if I don't get a map card?
also I was just going to get the smaller transducer due to the limited depth I will use it at. Is less depth range the only downside to the 83/200 transducer or does it effect performance in shallower water too?
any help will be much appreciated
Broady
Posts: 131
Date Joined: 16/01/13
Don't know the Elite
But the HDS does have a base map, a pretty crappy one though. Factor in a good maps card as you'll need it. As for Chirp it will give a superior sounding to the HDS Broadband, but you will need a Chirp transducer which isn't your standard 83/200.
On transducer power, as a starting point you shouldn't have too many issues. Not sure what size you mean but assume 600watt which in those depths is fine. Higher power will mean better performance at shallower depth.
Bigger is also better on screen size, but 5" is well and truly usable. Used an early HDS5 with no issues.
Happy hunting and have a good look at the other options too. Some people swear by different brands.
RobertMc
Posts: 326
Date Joined: 19/01/09
ring and speak to chivers
ring and speak to chivers marine, Luke knows his sounders, i think you will find that the elite 7/chirp, are what they class as entry level sounders, and dont have some of the functions that the hds has, and the hds is above that, whether or not you will ever use them is your call.
bouttime
Posts: 703
Date Joined: 27/07/06
Unless you want to install
Unless you want to install radar, structure scan, ipod docks ect and are happy with a standard GPS and sounder that will do the basics go the Elite. They are a good buy with the map included and the 83/200 transducer will be fine for your depths.
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Check BCF
They have a special at the moment on in store demo units.