We just bought an 8" HDS Gen2 for the bow and a 10" HDS Gen2 for the console, plus the weather module (we already have Sirius radio on the boat, so that was a no-brainer). We also got the Navionics chip. They're not installed yet, but I'll post a report once we've had a chance to kick the tires. In the mean time, I've been spending a lot of time watching training videos and reading up on all the new stuff!

i just finished installing a humminbird a new 898cSI on the bow of my boat and couldn't be happier....lots of info and videos and tons of help to get me started on operation of unit......american made with great customer service.....gonna be a great summer

Fellas you just shed a whole lot of light on my question. Was looking at low hds 8 with all the goodies but was not sure on some pros and cons. Any suggestions on ease of use with gen2 to the gen1 and or pros and cons to one or the other?

The Gen2s have a faster processor (response to Menu/key selections is very quick), have the new StructureMap feature, and have more internal storage memory. Other features of the Gen2 are the same as Gen1. See more on Gen2 and StructureMap below:

http://www.lowrance.com/Products/Marine/HDS-Gen2/

After playing with a HDS 8 and a HDS 8 Gen 2 side my side, the Gen 2 is way faster.

We just bought an 8" HDS Gen2 for the bow and a 10" HDS Gen2 for the console, plus the weather module (we already have Sirius radio on the boat, so that was a no-brainer). We also got the Navionics chip. They're not installed yet, but I'll post a report once we've had a chance to kick the tires. In the mean time, I've been spending a lot of time watching training videos and reading up on all the new stuff!

Just a dumb question, why not put the 10 up front, where you have more room and the viewing distance is greater? I mean, I spend WAYYY more time fishing than driving. Just curious.

That is for sure what I would do if I had a 10. I could only afford 2 8s.

Just a dumb question, why not put the 10 up front, where you have more room and the viewing distance is greater? I mean, I spend WAYYY more time fishing than driving. Just curious.

Agreed J, I did just that when I added another SI unit to go with my 5" screen model. I then decided to get another 10" for the console. BIGGER is BETTER especially from a distance.