I really would like to buy a SI unit.. but I can’t afford 1000 for a unit..I called Lowrance today and that’s about what my cost would be. I mentioned that I heard that HUMMINBIRD had a unit closer to 600.. but was TOLD ,no you will be paying more then that.. I am looking for your excellent advise.. thanks..
Helix 5. 499.00
oldrat,
WHOEVER told you that you wouldn’t be able to get into a HUMMINBIRD SI Unit for closer to $600, is a total j*****s AND wrong! You can get into either a Helix 5 SI or a 698ci HD SI Combo in that price range or less. I think the Helix 5 SI is less than $600 and the 698 is around $699. Also, if you buy the 698 by July 1, 2015, you can get a $50 Rebate. Hope this helps you out a little.
If you are on Facebook join the used humminbird/minnkota group, if my memory serves me right there are a couple of 898 SI units on there for 650. If you can swing the extra $50 I would get the bigger screen. 
imo, it’s pointless spending $500 for SI on such a small screen (Helix 5/698), you really won’t get your money’s worth…if you can wait & save up a $300 more and get a new 899 or used 998, you’ll be much happier with your purchase… What good is the SI information if the screen is too small to properly interpret it?
imo, it’s pointless spending $500 for SI on such a small screen (Helix 5/698), you really won’t get your money’s worth…if you can wait & save up a $300 more and get a new 899 or used 998, you’ll be much happier with your purchase… What good is the SI information if the screen is too small to properly interpret it?
Yea you are kinda right ( but if money is tight ) but my first SI was a 797 I ran that for 5 years ( saved for an 1198 ) and worked fine for me granted it was not the best situation but better then none. Keep the SI distance lower at 40 to 60 feet or even tighter and it will work fine. Spotting fish is more trickier on the smaller units, but one learns to do that too.
I’ve always been an advocate of buying the largest screen you can afford. If you don’t want to spend big money for the big screen, then the Helix5 is a great option. The orientation of the screen is completely different than the old 700 series. It’s a heck of a unit for the money. $499.
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