It looks like a Humminbird would be the cheapest option for getting an SI unit at $800 for the 598ci. If I went Lowrance I'd have to get an HDS5 or 5x AND add the Structure scan which costs ~$700 on it's own.

 

The advantage with the Lowrance seems to be that I can use the one LSS for both the bow and helm units if I had two...they also have a bundle option. I still think the HB may come out cheaper.

 

I'm just weighing options at this point. I still need a boat! (coming soon I hope)

I was going the humminbird route but lucked into some extra dough, so was able to get lowrance. Lowrance are more expensive and yes the HDS units can be networked and share the same structure scan hardware and software .

I would say to hold off and save all you can to get the unit you want. That way you won't be disappointed.

Not recommending......but I purchased through Amazon and saved a few hundred dollars. Was going to buy the second unit on Amazon or EBay ...but found a steal at my local Bass Pro that I could not miss out on.

There is always Craigslist, classifieds and the boards flea market.

ALWAYS be careful when using these methods to purchase items.

Thanks, I'm not sure why I didn't think about that...although I'm sure it would've crossed my mind at some point before I ever actually made a purchase.

Here is the place to buy it.

 

http://fishfinders.factoryoutletstore.com/details/3335-36549/humminbird-1198-c-si-hd.html#accessories

 

You can get a good look at mine on Saturday if you want.

Send Brian an email at BBG marine he just quoted me a price on a HDS 8 Gen 2 unit that is incredible ! Was $600 less than the one I bought 8 months ago ! I'd definitely check with him first before purchasing .

Here is the place to buy it.

 

http://fishfinders.factoryoutletstore.com/details/3335-36549/humminbird-1198-c-si-hd.html#accessories

 

You can get a good look at mine on Saturday if you want.

 

That dealer is no more a factory outlet store than Walmart is for TV's.

 

They also misrepresent the products. They advertise a Humminbird 1198c SI HD and there is no such model. There is only the 1198c SI.

 

Their sale price on the discontinued 998c SI is about $200 higher than marine electronics dealers such as BBG Marine Electronics.

That's where I bought mine.  At the time the 1198 was cheaper there than BBG by about $100.

Lowrance may be cheaper in the long run. if you want to upgrade to a bigger or newer unit, you can still use the lss. with the Birds, you must buy the complete unit.