Getting pretty comfortable with my electronics now and looking to retool a bit. Classically I have run a Helix 5 behind the wheel and a 798ci at the bow. Generally just for maps, depth, arcs in the area.. very basic. Last fall, I bought a LVS 34(the newer one) and a Garmin 106sv with the newer transducer (also the newer version). I replaced the 798ci at the bow with the Garmin on an independent system to a amped outdoor 100ah lithium ion battery. The transducer is on the trolling motor. I also financed a second 106sv screen and older transducer with no interest  from bass pro and have yet to hook it up. 

 

My question is do people like the Garmin for side scanning or should I return the 2nd 106 and get hummin birds for maps and side scan. Ideally 2 at the console ( 1 for mapping and 1 for side scan) and 1 up front along with Garmin to transfer marked fish from side scan. Alternatively have a Garmin and a Humminbird at each location. Humminbird for maps and Garmin for sonar. Though it would be double the work marking fish as in you would have to switch screens.  Any advice would be a huge help!! 

 

Side scan Humminbird hands down. I’m a big proponent of having all my units linked together. I run 4 birds all Ethernet together along with my TM. 
On another note. Nice looking Skeeter …

 

 

 

A helix 9 or bigger (or solix/apex) with the larger transducer is the best side imaging I've seen.  I note the size because a Helix 7 and smaller comes with the little transducer. (there isn't an 8" SI)

 

Since you have an ultrex I would say running humminbirds for everything and networking it all would be ideal.

 

LVS34 is the best live imaging and I'd leave that up front.

 

All that said, you already have the 106 up front and the transducer mounted for SI.  You're already going to keep that anyway for live imaging.  You already have the black box and networking set up for Garmin.  So in that case, I would just go garmin the whole way.  HBird SI is better, but Garmin is still very good and you own them.  Network them together and just roll with it.  If the HBird you have is still mounted after adding the second 106, then leave it for 2D.  Then use the console 106 for maps and SI.  Dedicate the up front 106 for live.