Helix 7 or 859ci HD DI

[NacCat]

I have a Humminbird 999ci HD SI on my boat at the console and am looking to upgrade the front unit. I was thinking about putting a 859ci HD DI on the front but Humminbird has discontinued the entire series. There are still a few available but they will be gone soon and you have to wonder how long Humminbird is going to support software upgrades for the discontinued models. I have been looking at the new Helix 7 and wanted to know if anyone has any experience with the new unit. The 859 will network to my 999 but unfortunately the Helix 7 does not support networking. It does seem to have a faster processor and a brighter screen but will not allow sharing of way points between the two units. So if I go with the Helix 7 then Im back to constantly moving way points between the two units. If I cant network the two units should I stay with Humminbird or should I look at the Lowrance Elite 7 with Chirp? Thoughts?Mike

[Bass Cat Boats]

I have 2015 Cougar FTD bought in August this year with the 999 / 959 set up. Same you would have except the 859 is just a smaller screen. I have mine link and love it. Talked to HB about all the changes and the said they would continue to support these units for a while with updates and software changes. Mine are almost 6 months old and are very good. I will not update for a couple of years. I would go that way too if I were you and make use of your features of both units for now.

[Bass Cat Boats]

First, the 800/900/1100 seriesis available through 2016 model year to us, which is more than just support.Second the Helix screen is the only benefit as it uses newer technology. If the 859 screen is fine, in our opinion, then go for it is our suggestion. To us the 800/900 model units has been a staple on depth finders. The Helix and core 800-1100 units do give some in DI signal to the Onix and HDS units. Other than this small difference the rest is preference and programming. Our thoughts are no opinion. If is based on your mounting room, placement and preference on what you need.

[catdude28]

It depends on what is more important to you, 2d or DI. The Lowrance typically has better 2d than the Bird, and even more so with Chirp. The Bird has better DI, but inferior 2d. The C/S from Bird is superior. Personally, my choice of the three units would be the 859. The ability of your 999 to talk to an 859 gives a lot of options on a network. As mentioned, I dont think support in the future will be an issue for the 800 series as there are so many core units in use now.

[NacCat]

I appreciate everyones input. I agree with the consensus but was concerned that I was purchasing a product at the end of sale cycle. I think the 859 gives me the most options and Ill go that direction. Its always good to be able to validate what you are thinking with others before you do it. Thanks everyone.Mike

[Jstew]

@NacCat – as to “support” – that really should be of no concern with the 8XX – 11XX units. HBs “updates” since software v6.49 have been primarily to add new features that require new purchases that you may or may not desire to utilize. I personally could

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