So I am getting an HB 798 this weekend - this is an upgrade to the little lorance X50 unit that came on my 16' bass tracker 8 months ago which is really only good for showing depth for the most part. 

So with this new product I am getting, how do I go about learning it to be at least generally proficient.  I have read a bit on here about the traditional color sonar as it relates to color line, fish side (thickness of band), bottom hardness/detail using the colors, etc...but the unit also does side imaging, down imaging, GPS, and I will buy maps for it - I am pretty tech savy so I am sure I will pick it up easy enough.

However, is there a newer book good resource that will break down this unit for me and allow me to understand its uses, limitations, etc...??  Any help will be great - thanks everyone.

Read the two inch thick book that comes with it.  Then take it to the lake (once installed of course) and play with it.  take your book with you in the boat.  The images are pretty much self explanatory.  You'll need the book learn the menus and all the different options.

I have another thread indirectly related on this for those interested - some folks have went to bass pro's seminars and this helped them alot apparently.  Definately will read the manual and check out this link - thanks guys - any other advice from others obviously welcomed!

I don't have an overly complicated model, HB 383c Combo, and sitting with it in Demo Mode, while working through the manual helped immensely before getting on the water.

Yeah J, likely very true - same thing with alot of electronics I would imagine - When I got my Nikon D90 (digital SLR camera) - reading the manual and going through it with my camer helped alot - this will likely be no exception - I think alot of folks do not take the time because..well...reading manuals is not exactly entertaining, but worth it!

When you purchase the unit, get an additional power cord so you can practice with the Simulator as you read the manual. That will increase your learning curve.

Thats a really good idea!  I will do it!

I must say now that I am floundering about possibly splurging to get the 898 - wouldnt mind even bigger, just a bit too much right now....man I hate decisions!!