sonar/gps question

[KyPit71]

I've been researching sonar/gps units and can't really decide which to get.There are so many units to choose from.I found the new HB 581i combo unit for $349 on sale and am leaning toward it.I want to spend somewhere between $300-600.The 581 is not color and has 2000 watts but is in my price range.I fish mainly lakes like Ky lake,Cedar Creek,Herrington,etc. Does color really make that much of a difference for the cost? What power is most suitable for my needs?I know more power is better,but will 2000 watts be enough for what i do?I want a HB because I've read alot of bad things about Lowrance's customer service.Any info would really be appreciated.Heading to Ky Lake Derby Day for a week and need to get a new unit.Thanks again and Good Fishing to all!!!!!

[BassBandit35]

http://bassedge.com/pages/show/Deep_...d=Latest+Posts

[kydog]

I have the HB 788ci and really like, I think the msrp is $649. The hb 587ci and 597ci $469 and $569 in color, the color helps out on the maps because you can change the color on the depth's. I would also get the Navionic's hot map chip it's a real help on the bigger lake's with the hi-def chart's, but I don't think Cedar or Herrington are on the hi-def list. They just added Nolin,rough,green,t-ville and my son just told me is a hi-def lake also. The depth contour's are in 2 ft increment's. hope this help's.
Kydog

[BassBandit35]

I have the HB 788ci and really like, I think the msrp is $649.

788ci is what I have, too. The link I posted above is one of the reason I bought it. Well worth the investment. Bought from eBay for 585 bucks shipped.

[Les Young]

I bought a 581i awhile back & there isn't a thing wrong with it. Color really doesn't make that much difference to me. Yes they look good, but if you learn your unit you don't need it 581i is a very good unit & never had any problems what so ever. They'll show a lot more than you think they will in good detail. Don't get me wrong they're not the SI systems, but there sure isn't anything wrong with them either. Go for it you'll like it.

[KyPit71]

Thanks guys for the replies.I would like to get the 788 but really cant afford it and the navionics map too,so I'm going with the 581 with navionics.Dicks has them for 349 plus i can get the map for another 100.Guess it will do for now,at least i'll have the gps and can get a better sonar later on down the road if need be.Thanks again and Happy Fishin'

[Bumblebee110]

my buddy got the HB 788ci and really loves it.