Have an 1198c SI on console and a 997c on the front. Feeling like I'm missing out, kind of "technologically challenged". Finding some really good deals on the Helix(relatively speaking) right now. What is the major difference between the Helix and the Solix? Is it basically just the touch screen that differentiates the two models? Pros and cons? Imaging "appears" very advanced over my 1198. Of course that's on ads to sell fish finders! Thanks for input, 361V.

I know there are 2 generations of Helix graphs out there. The Gen2 Helix have Mega-imaging which I've heard is far superior to the first gen side imaging and Lowrances side imaging.

I'm running an 1199 up front and a Helix 10 SI Gen 1 on the console. To me the Helix is only slightly better than the 1199. I always buy the older technology since the new stuff is out of my budget, ie Mega. I'd love one, but am happy with what I have. However with the prices on the Helix 10 SI's being under $900 I am thinking about buying one and replacing the 1199. Mainly so that if one craps out I have a backup. The good news is all of the connections for the Helix Gen 1's are the same as what you have, just change out the collector. You may need an adapter cable for the ethernet to connect units. Hope I did not confuse you more.

I have never used or seen a Solix, out of my price range!

I actually have a cable(Ethernet?) that network's the two now. Would the Helix Gen 2(mega) plug into all my connectors now and network with my 1199 if I moved it up front?

I upgraded my 998's to the Helix 9 G2n and Helix 7 G2N but I have not bought the network module yet.

I can tell you the Mega imaging blows away the 998's. Having the 2D sonar on one side and 3D sonar on the other side really is helping me identify true fish or structure vs. false returns. I think the 3D Down is much more accurate.

Couldn't afford the Solix but right now, I don't see why I need more than I have.

The Mega has a different SI transducer. My Gen 1 Helix is connected to my 1199.

Every Helix and every SOLIX has a higher resolution display than the 1100 series units.
The Helix and SOLIX have 16:9 screen ratios like the 997. The 1100 series is 4:3.
Wide screens are best for Side Imaging.

Stuff that SOLIX has that the Helix does not is:
Touch screen
Customizable views
Much better processor
Map sharing
Individual positive and negative circuits for all sensors
15" display available
Able to share heading sensor separate from GPS
Direct connection to NMEA2K devices
Different menu system
Selectable digital readouts for each view for a multi-view panel

Difference between Helix and Solix basically boils down to touch screen (Solix) and Customizable views (Solix). No touchscreen on Helix and only default views (but there are plenty of default view options). G2 Helix Megas and Solix Megas both use the Mega Transducers. Gen 1 Helix is only slightly better than your 1100 series and honestly not worth upgrading to.

MEGA SI units have a dedicated Down Imaging crystal in the transducer (ONIX also). All other SI units have composite DI created by blending the two SI pulses.

This is the ethernet adapter you'll need.
http://www.basspro.com/shop/en/humminbir...oductextensions

You can customize views on the solix but you can NOT adjust the size of the windows like you can on the helix. Thats a real PIA to me so i figured i would throw it out there

The 1199 and Helix needs the Ethernet adapter AS EC QDE for the Ethernet cable connection. That gives that connection quick disconnect like the other cables. The 1198 has the threaded Ethernet port that matches the Ethernet cable.
The SOLIX has the threaded Ethernet port like the 1198.

No need for touch screen. Get the biggest g2n mega image unit you can afford. They are truly awesome. Haven't seen any other brand come close

I second all said about the Helix Gen 2. Down and side are far superior to 1100's. Just got a new boat and difference is HUGE

I upgraded to the 1st generation just before the Megas came out. I don't regret it. Mega was out of my price range. The 1st generation also has brighter screens so easier to see detail in sunlight which was a primary cause for my upgrade and the 12 has CHIRP which I like. For what your old unit is bringing used and the price of the gen 1 Helix, it is worth the upgrade. If you are looking at the Megas then definitely worth it. I'll wait until the Megas start showing up used to try one.

I had the opportunity to acquire the Helix 9 mega and I can tell you there is nothing that has that kind of picture for the price, the Solix is much nicer but the price is a lot higher. I am so impressed with the details it makes it hard to fish from watching the screen displays. good luck. I may be able to get Brad to post a few of my pics on here they are awesome.

Excellent compairison Wayne. Thanks

Sorry to hijack but Im considering the solix as well, and it would be the 15...

The solix 15 is insane, sucks when your fishing partner is half retired and makes upgrades as they come out... The other side of the negative is great though, its an awesome boat to fish on!!

I figured Id ask the HB guys I see here, Whats the going rate for a like new Helix 10 si gps(no mega)?? Still has the plastic on the screen. Id need to sell mine to get the solix..

I just paid $650 for a 10 di with 75 hrs and plastic still on screen and a transducer saver if that gives you something to go by. The prices have dropped quite a bit on new gen 1 units so that'll hurt you a bit

With the MEGA DI units just coming out, the value is even less for the gen 1 DI models.
Now there are three versions:
Helix DI
Helix DI CHIRP G2N
Helix DI CHIRP MEGA G2N