Helix ice 7 chirp GPS G3 vs Helix ice 7 chirp GPS G3N

I have been doing research on a new ice flasher as well as electronics for a new to me Ranger Reata. I decided it seemed to make sense to get a Helix ice 7 G3 and then take the control unit off the shuttle and put it in the front of the boat for open water season. I saw a great price on another post and was ready to pull the trigger on it until I was told by my new bride that she had already bought the 7G3N for me for Christmas which was much higher priced than the one I found.

I tried to do a little bit of research to figure out the difference and it appears that the only difference is the G3N has the gimble mount and boat transducer. The “N” she bought is $800 vs. $580 for the regular one.

I would want to put a SI/DI transducer on the boat anyways so it seems like the one I found makes more sense. I am new to the higher end electronics so I don’t know if I understand correctly. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

I am going to end up with a 7 on the bow and probably a 9 at the console. I was not a fan of the ice unit not being capable of SI on it’s own. I realize that by networking you can see those features if the console unit has them. I just felt like having it available on the 7 would be worthwhile in case of issues with the console unit, networking, etc.

My thought is get a Helix 9 mega SI G3N at the console, a helix 7 mega SI G3N Control head at the bow that I can either network with the 9 or connect to my Terrova, and get an ice shuttle and transducer (case possibly) and have everything taken care of.

The Marcum ice shuttle is nicer than the Humminbird. t has a lithium battery instead of the lead battery that the Humminbird has, LED light for charging jigs, on/off switch, USB light, etc.

John you are absolutely correct on that!! Best thing that ever happened to me by a long shot.