I am posting in a couple of forums, hoping for some good input.

Ok. Here it is: I have a center console boat with a Lowrance X75 on console and Eagle Classic on TM. The TM is MinnKota with foot control. (There have been problems with interference.) I am looking to upgrade.

1. What are opinions on: Eagle vs Lowrance vs Hummingbird Side Imaging?
Eagles: FishElite 640C or 640C iPS
Lowrance: LMS-520C or LMS-522C iGPS or LMS-525C DF or LMS-527C DF iGPS
Hummingbird: 997 or 797

2. I know Eagles are cheaper than Lowrance, but do they work as well? Eagle is listed as 640x480; Lowrance, 480x480. I know both Eagle and Lowrance made by Lowrance.

3. Antennas: Internal or external?

4. Dual Frequency or single? I fish mostly freshwater..Stripers, sandies, hybrids, crappie, LMB.

5. Mapping: Lowrance, Navionics, Hot Spots?

6. Are optional speed and distance logs worth it?

7. Does Side Imaging work as advertised? Worth the cost?

Thanks for your time.

BobC

I have a question about the interference. Are you running the depth finder on the same battery as your trolling motor? If so that's most likely your issue.

As far as the internal antenna. Only use it if the unit will not be tilted back like most are whem bow mounted.

You would only need dual frequency for deep water(ocean depths).

I bought the external antenna on advice from the electronics guy. He said the internal was having some problems. I opted for the Lowrance 520c. If you would like I can give you the name and number of the best electronics guy I have ever known. He sells stuff all over America.

BobC,

1. I like Lowrance over Eagle due to Lowrance having more power for the sonar functions and I like the external antenna (personal preference. Side image for bass guys and I do not think it is needed for open water fishing - I also do not like the Side Imaging view/presentation - personal limitation on undersatnding what it is showing.
Lowrance: LMS-520C

2. I think Eagle works almost as well...

3. External - works fine on my center console

4. You will not need dual frequency unless you do deep saltwater - not needed on lakes.

5. Mapping: Navionics = best contour definition --- I stopped using and eventually gave away my Lowrance chip.

6. Don't use them...

7. Only seen it...personally not interested for the type of open water fishing that we do...striper, hybrid, whites -- maybe re-look if I targeted crappie or LMB.

I personally like the bigger screen of the LCX-27C...it is easier for me to see the split screen for GPS and Sonar which is how I run it most of the time.

So -- is it Merry Christmas for Bob????

BUMP