I was ready to pull the trigger on an Elite 4X HDI but decided to wait to see what Black Friday had to offer. Then I saw Bass Pro Shop has an Elite 4X Chirp listed but out of stock. So I went to Lorance's web site and they don't even show an Elite 4X Chirp. They show ones in the Elite 5 and 7 sizes. So now I'm thinking that I should spend some serious cash for a size 5 chirp. But I'll admit that I have much to learn about these electronic gizmos and I've decided to educate myself about such things as processor speed, whether a GPS is really necessary, and whether a 4X HDI will work or should I hold out for a Chirp? Does anyone know whether we can expect a 4X Chirp model in the near future? Also, someone on here said that the GPS in the Elite line is really slow. Is GPS really necessary? I think I can find my way with a handheld GPS and/or a map. I just want to find structure, bottom features, depth, temp, and the fish.

 

Thanks,

Mark

I do not have a GPS, but I have fished in boats with them and it has improved my fishing when I do. Just my take I would get a GPS

Get the GPS. You will not regret it.

 

As for the CHIRP units, try to find them.

 

CHIRP technology is the newest thing in sonar.

 

Raymarine took the technology from the Navy and it has proven to be outstanding for saltwater fishing.

 

Now the CHIRP technology is invading freshwater fishing and if you have ever seen a Raymarine CHIRP unit at work you will pay the additional money to get the CHIRP unit.

 

Just my two cents.

Thanks for the responses. Does chirp replace side scan? Does it help to have downscan with chirp?

I have an Elite 7 chirp, I am almost certain only the sonar is clearer and has better target separation. The downscan is the same as it is / was on the elite 7 hdi, and the units do not have side scan. Honestly I would look around, I've seen hds 8s on sale for half price and things like that. The hds units are clearer, have faster and more detailed gps and they support side scan

Just my two cents , But Hummingbird is introducing the Helix 5 this month it's flagship model has SI DI GPS and Sonar for under 500.00 Just a thought ....

I think that was a mistake. Lowrance didn't release a 4 series chirp yet.

I think that was a mistake. Lowrance didn't release a 4 series chirp yet.

 

There are several unreleased sonar models on the Bass Pro web site and are shown as "Available for Backorder" which means they will be available soon.

Some marine electronics dealers are taking pre-orders for new models. That is just how Bass Pro does it.