Which GPS/FF should i get?

FIGJAM · 08 July 2008, 12:37

Im in the market for a new Fshfinder and gps combo, ive recently been to the boat show. I had a look at a few different brands, and Im split between the Humminbird 1157c combo, and the Northstar(Navman) M121. Ive had a humminbird for ten years and no problems. But the northstar is a really nice unit! Can anyone give me some advice on which one to choose.

Channel Ribs · 08 July 2008, 13:05

Hi,

Before you plump for either of those, take a look at the Garmin 450S, 550S and 555S.

The prices are pretty good and as a compact plotter/sounder combination they are very neat. A useable basemap is included too!

Steve_B · 08 July 2008, 13:07

I have the Navman version of the Northstar and could not be more pleased.
The fact that it could be linked to my Mariner engine, was what sold it for me.
So if you have a Smartcraft engine the extras the Northstar will offer amy swing it.
The only slight gripe I have, is that the screen once smudged, is a bugger to get clean. But so am I ...

FIGJAM · 08 July 2008, 13:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by 250kts

I have the Navman version of the Northstar and could not be more pleased.
The fact that it could be linked to my Mariner engine, was what sold it for me.
So if you have a Smartcraft engine the extras the Northstar will offer amy swing it.
The only slight gripe I have, is that the screen once smudged, is a bugger to get clean. But so am I ...

I really like the northstar! Its a great unit i have a yamaha engine so it doenst hook up to the smartcraft. How long have u had it for?

Andy Moore · 08 July 2008, 16:51

Garmin stuff ROCKS!

Steve_B · 08 July 2008, 18:21

Brought the Navman back from the States in Feb this year.
Even without the Smartcraft I still think you would be pleased, but that is only my non-professional opinion.

Happy hunting

Mollers · 08 July 2008, 21:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy Moore

Garmin stuff ROCKS!

Which other brands do you have experience of?

Andy Moore · 08 July 2008, 21:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mollers

Which other brands do you have experience of?

Magellan XL handheld: packed up
Lowrance 332c: we are now on our 3rd unit, the first two having shorted out or something.

Mollers · 08 July 2008, 21:41

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy Moore

Magellan XL handheld: packed up
Lowrance 332c: we are now on our 3rd unit, the first two having shorted out or something.

My Garmin 238 packed-up, others I know, including myself, have had various problems with the multi-pin plugs furring up. Steaming-up is another recurring theme with Garmin gear.

For a bit of 'rocking' at a price, I'd 'rock' with Raymarine. Only my opinion.

Andy Moore · 08 July 2008, 21:45

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mollers

For a bit of 'rocking' at a price, I'd 'rock' with Raymarine. Only my opinion.

I am not familiar with Raymarine stuff but it looks nice.

Money no object? B & G. Phwoar!