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