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Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Equipment => Ice Fishing With Electronics => Topic started by: adkRoy on Feb 21, 2016, 03:35 PM

Title: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: adkRoy on Feb 21, 2016, 03:35 PM
I will move this to the ice fishing with electronics after its been up for a week. Then when the question of which is the best sonar comes up, we can just redirect the person to this thread.  ;D
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: adkRoy on Feb 21, 2016, 03:38 PM
btw, I have used a vexilar fl-8 for the last 10 years and love it.  ;D
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rgfixit on Feb 21, 2016, 03:38 PM
Dreamer :roflmao:

Rg
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: adkRoy on Feb 21, 2016, 03:44 PM
Dreamer :roflmao:

Rg

I'm bored okay.... :afro:
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Bumski on Feb 21, 2016, 04:10 PM
I'm bored okay.... :afro:

Why??........
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 32footsteps on Feb 21, 2016, 04:18 PM
A poll like this won't settle anything until you start to compare the results against the market share for each brand mentioned and then it still won't settle anything.  Vexilars have been around the longest and have more units in the field than any other.  As a result of the sheer number of vex users there are the results will skew in Vexilar's favor.  Does that make them the best?  Nope.  It doesn't mean they aren't the best either.  It means that the poll is inherently flawed before anyone answers. 
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Raquettedacker on Feb 21, 2016, 04:22 PM
What no Ford, Chevy ,Dodge ,Toyota , Nissan pole?    ;D
Just like jigs, line, augers, shanty's, creepers, $100 jig poles, you name it..
Its all of a matter of opinion...And no one is better than the rest..     ;) ;)       ;D ;D
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rpdog on Feb 21, 2016, 04:23 PM
I'll jump in I have 2 vexilars.
  Rp
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: mealworm on Feb 21, 2016, 04:25 PM
I have a Marcum and a vex so I should vote for other lol wait vex is the best cause that's what I use
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: adkRoy on Feb 21, 2016, 04:28 PM
A poll like this won't settle anything until you start to compare the results against the market share for each brand mentioned and then it still won't settle anything.  Vexilars have been around the longest and have more units in the field than any other.  As a result of the sheer number of vex users there are the results will skew in Vexilar's favor.  Does that make them the best?  Nope.  It doesn't mean they aren't the best either.  It means that the poll is inherently flawed before anyone answers.
Its just a basic poll. Its a question that gets posted on here at least twice a day. Have fun. Its just to see what everyone likes and why.  I personally don't care one way or another what people like, but some people on here like to see what others use.

P.S. as of right now, marcum is in the lead. lol
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Raptortrapper on Feb 21, 2016, 04:53 PM
I've only had one fish finder ever.  It's a Marcum LX7 and I love it.  Marcum gets my vote till they prove me wrong.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: NEZ on Feb 21, 2016, 05:01 PM
I also just got an LX 7 and is absolutely incredible.  I have a Hummingbird Ice 35 and have used vexilars and is no comparison.  The LX7's target separation is by far more superior than the other too, and even Marcum's Showdown.  Fished a tournament today and was day 2 with the graph.  When that red line came up to the jig's line, hold on cause the bite is there.  Great job Marcum!!!  Also customer service is top notch.  So I vote X2 for Marcum. 
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: russelln114 on Feb 21, 2016, 05:02 PM
What Vexilar has going for it.

1 Great customer service
2 Durability(with care they last forever)
3 Great warranty(2years with the option to buy2 more)
4 Exceptionally fast turn around when serviced
5 When you call you get to talk to a live person who doesn't give you the run around
6 Try to google vexilar problems (you won't find much) then google marcum problems

Not knocking others,just love vexilar.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rgfixit on Feb 21, 2016, 05:07 PM
I FOLLOW MY NOSE! IT ALWAYS KNOWS!

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/brfixit/image_zps24q6mvju.png) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/brfixit/media/image_zps24q6mvju.png.html)



 ;D

Rg
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rgfixit on Feb 21, 2016, 05:08 PM
By the way...this is a poll.....not a debate.

Rg
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 46r on Feb 21, 2016, 05:08 PM
Not really voting because I only watched others working their machines and I bought a Marcum Showdown dual beam a few years ago ... No regrets nor desire for anything else.  It's easy to interpret with a vertical orientation that directly reads depth unlike most others.  No noise.  The more (LCD) bars showing, the bigger the fish (assuming the fish is horizontal).  Separated bars indicate multiple fish.  It picks up the tiniest sinker or swivel, even heavier line.  It sets the angle, sensitivity and range automatically or you can set them manually.  And you can zoom anywhere in the column. 

It accurately shoots depth through what I'll call grey ice.  Black ... no problem.  White ... forget it.  But more black than white (lots of bubbles but not snow) ... okay.  If the ice is not smooth, you do have to put down a little (very little) water to get a good couple between the probe and ice.

The only "complaint" is that the zoom range increases with depth and cannot be overridden.

The Showdown can be used in summer too, but it would be a lot more clunky than a fixed device. 

Marcum added a heater to speed up the electronics (I assume the LCD crystals) in cold conditions.  I generally keep the heater on and have never run out of battery power with it on continuously for up to 10 hours. 

FWIW ... When other see how simple mine is to operate, they say that's what they are going to get if they don't already have a fish finder.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Republic of Alberta on Feb 21, 2016, 05:16 PM
Vexilar because I like to buy something that I don't have to send down to the states to repair all the time.   Lol
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: keithire2 on Feb 21, 2016, 05:27 PM
Marcum. Reliable and great customer svc.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Adkrs on Feb 21, 2016, 05:42 PM
Vex guys are still trying to log on...dial up is too slow and outdated. But its reliable ;)
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Kevin23 on Feb 21, 2016, 05:47 PM
What you use and what you think is the best are two different things for most people. Keep that in mind before you say the fl8 is the best.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: adkRoy on Feb 21, 2016, 05:49 PM
What you use and what you think is the best are two different things for most people. Keep that in mind before you say the fl8 is the best.

Never said it was the best. I've just been using it the last ten years and it works for me so I never saw a need to "upgrade" to a different model or brand.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Kevin23 on Feb 21, 2016, 05:53 PM
That wasnt directed at anyone specific, just something for people to consider before voting.

I personally think the humminbird is the best entry level, then marcum lx5 for mid level and marcum lx9 for "the best".. So i voted marcum. I really like my humminbird and lowrance though.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: kevs on Feb 21, 2016, 05:54 PM
 Marcum Showdown 5.6. 6 years on both unit and battery and still working great. Easy to read, adjust, and carry. Easily 'sees' baits down to a size 18 ice fly. Only once had issue with interference and that is when several fellas using vex's turned their units up trying to see the ice flies they were using, and by then they were also complaining about the interference. Use it for both hard and soft water.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rgfixit on Feb 21, 2016, 06:11 PM
You guys are something else. Now your stuffing the ballot box.

Rg
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rpdog on Feb 21, 2016, 06:35 PM
You guys are something else. Now your stuffing the ballot box.

Rg
 No were just really bored
  Rp
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rgfixit on Feb 21, 2016, 06:49 PM
That....I believe ;D

Rg
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Lite-Bite on Feb 21, 2016, 07:10 PM
Chevy  ;D
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rgfixit on Feb 21, 2016, 07:11 PM
Yugo  ;D

Rg
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Raptortrapper on Feb 21, 2016, 07:41 PM
Dodge Ram with a Marcum
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Loudmouth879 on Feb 21, 2016, 08:35 PM
I'm bored okay.... :afro:

Time to raise heck on the Oneida threads!  :roflmao:

Coming from a guy who used a Fl-8 for the past 5 years and this year switched to a lx7 the lx7 is the cats meow
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: bobberbill on Feb 21, 2016, 09:10 PM
Lowrance.. still likin my x67-c.. Ford and Chevy?? HAHA.. Last rides are in a Cadillac..
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Jigginforjumbos on Feb 21, 2016, 09:33 PM
Where are all the humminbird owners at? Lol vex fl20 for me. No issues at all and battery is at 90 percent when I leave the ice after fishing all day. Can't complain
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: varmonter on Feb 21, 2016, 10:02 PM
i have an auger and a jig pole and some tip ups....all this usually finds fish..... ;D

that being said i just bought an marcum lx7 ..havn't got it yet hopefully this week..want to try it on friday for white perch in st albans bay..
marcum seemed to have good reviews from this board and others..
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: TIBS on Feb 22, 2016, 06:15 AM
I run a Bird, but I think that Marcum has the best line up right now.  I just can't afford an LX7, so I'll stick with my ICE35.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Geezer_ on Feb 22, 2016, 06:52 AM
I love my Humminbird ice 45. Since it is the only one I've owned I can't shoot holes in the others.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: hnd on Feb 22, 2016, 08:15 AM
i'll commend the team here.  this is how you keep the clicks in the off season. 
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: eriksat1 on Feb 22, 2016, 08:17 AM
If it shows depth, shows your jig, and shows fish, and can block out interference from other units close by they are all good and all you need. That said I own 2 Marcum LX5's. Why 2? Because I was tired of having my wife or daughter take over my LX5 when ever they came with.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: hnd on Feb 22, 2016, 08:20 AM
owned :
fl8
fl18
vx1
lx5

have used alot :

x67c
flx28
ice35
lx6

The marcums are just the best units i've used.  Teh VX1 was better even than most of the others.  Marcums plastic cases are kind of cheapo though. 

The ice 35 was ok, certainly not as sharp as the vx1.  the x67c was literally useless if there were any other flashers within a 20yd radius of me.  so no thanks. 

the flx28 had a proview ducer which after a week of using, i'll never own (the ducer...the 28 was nice)

my 8 and 18 were also good units that caught alot of fish but the blobbiness and the 18 going bad were what sent me to the dark side. 
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Joe in T.C. on Feb 22, 2016, 08:44 AM
I owned a Vex and now use a Marcum.

Both are great units.

Over the years I have seen quite a few other brands in action

Vex or Marcum are the ONLY two units I would ever buy.

good luck all
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Lobes on Feb 22, 2016, 09:10 AM
I placed a vote for other because there will never be a "best sonar" since the competition will forever be tweaking improvements/features.
The hands down best fish finder ever that will always hold that place for ice fishing will have to be the good old hook, line and bait. That is the only locator that will always actually put the fish on the ice ...

                                                        :tipup:
Lobes
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Spider1 on Feb 22, 2016, 09:11 AM
I have an ice-45, it works. I've looked over shoulders to check out marcums and vex's and I like the display on the marcums and vex's better. the birds marks are much bigger than the others and that tens to get messy when there's junk in the water or some small fish come in with the larger fish. I like the look of the marcum the best the marks are crisp and you know what you have down there. I also don't like that humminbird makes you buy the soft cover separately. Also, I noticed that the plastic base hums sometimes when it isn't sitting perfectly flat and at times for no reason. I've resorted to having to lean my foot against it to keep it from humming sometimes.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 3whitevanes on Feb 22, 2016, 09:55 AM
I've owned and tried basically all of them.   That being said, I currently use Vexilar FLX-28's and couldn't be happier.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: iowapackfan on Feb 22, 2016, 10:08 AM
I currently use a fl-12 for pond hopping here in Western Iowa and couldn't be happier. Great little unit.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Big Ice Hole on Feb 22, 2016, 07:25 PM
I own both a fl8 and a 5.6 showdown. Haven't had much of a chance to use the showdown this year or the vex for that matter. I liked the Vex, but got a killer deal on the Showdown. Both make good paper weights this year.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Mittenman on Feb 22, 2016, 07:34 PM
I've been completely happy with my Marcum VX1-P. I like it better than the Lowrance that I had before but have no firsthand expearince how well the Marcum stacks up against other similarly priced flashers. The impression that I had at the time that I bought my Marcum after reading a lot of reviews was that Vexilar makes a very good sonar but that you pay a premium for name recognition.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: HIMO on Feb 23, 2016, 06:46 AM
What Vexilar has going for it.

1 Great customer service
2 Durability(with care they last forever)
3 Great warranty(2years with the option to buy2 more)
4 Exceptionally fast turn around when serviced
5 When you call you get to talk to a live person who doesn't give you the run around
6 Try to google vexilar problems (you won't find much) then google marcum problems

Not knocking others,just love vexilar.

well, you just stated all the stuff you like when your Vex breaks down. Poll closed Marcum wins. LOL !!!

                                                                                                     HIMO
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Chute82 on Feb 23, 2016, 07:17 AM
I fish with a vex, my buddy fishes with a marcum.
 He drives a ford, I drive a Chevy..
I'm a Vet, he is not..
He shoots a Remington , I shoot a Winchester
He likes deer hunting, I rather rabbit hunt
His wife has brown hair, my wife is a blonde
He has a gas auger, I use a hand auger

I'm starting to wonder why I'm friends with this guy?
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: mono_mono on Feb 23, 2016, 07:17 AM
I have a Vex FL-8se. My first flasher, arrived last week. All I can say is these things keep you on the ice longer than you would fish without one. A LOT LONGER! They are mezmorizing and fun. Good thing I am already divorced.......
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Nysportxman on Feb 23, 2016, 07:52 AM
Vex guys are still trying to log on...dial up is too slow and outdated. But its reliable ;)

Ha, I see what you did there.  Marcum all the way for me!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: nd.walleye on Feb 23, 2016, 08:02 AM
I voted for Vex, I have pined over the flx28 and the lx7 for months and ended up getting a 28 (raffle but would have went vex anyway). What it comes down to for me was the machine is a sonar, i dont need all the fancy extra bits that the lx7 has, not a fan of graph display, and honestly when its -20 the lcd screen would kinda freak me out. Basically i like that vexilar has stuck to a build that works, no need to be innovative with a sonar, it does what its suppose to. :) Ultimately, you really cant go wrong unless you dont buy one... like i did.... for 15+ years, not really sure how i never pulled the trigger in all this time.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: chumster on Feb 23, 2016, 10:33 AM
Lowrance for sonar, Vex for flasher.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: boatman on Feb 23, 2016, 10:36 AM
I have a Bird. 385CI and like it a lot. Flasher works great, many different color options. Gps that is awesome for marking good holes from year to year. Card reeder for snap shot and lake maps. Have no problem running beside my buddies vex as it has noise filters. On graph setting it can track many jigs works well tracking fish following jig up. It is nice to see fish being pulled up and then watching them swim back down seeing how they swim down. More info than just a flash line. Here is a pic I took of jig being pulled up and down. It's a little blurry pic from phone.

(http://i66.tinypic.com/1q37z5.jpg)
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 1moslab on Feb 23, 2016, 11:22 AM
vex vex vex need my flasher to always work
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: haulin bass on Feb 23, 2016, 11:39 AM
I have a marcum lx-7 and a marcum showdown troller. Love them both. Only complaint is with the lx 7 screen visibility in the sunlight. Showdown troller I use most of the time. Have caught more than my share of lake trout with it. Simple to use and very light. Strap it to my leg ice fishing and mount it to the front rail on my boat for jigging trout in the summer. Of course if you like to stand and ice fish it would have to be rigged a little differently.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Raptortrapper on Feb 23, 2016, 02:50 PM
I have an LX7.  It is my first and only fish finder.  I've already commented earlier in the thread for my vote.  HOWEVER, this thread has shown me that should I need / want a new fish finder somewhere down the road, I won't be afraid to look into vexilar.  It is very obvious who the two heavy hitters are in the market, and I'm glad to have followed this thread.   

Well done to both Marcum and Vexilar!!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: NY_labman on Feb 23, 2016, 02:54 PM
187 votes in 2 days?  Come on guys, there's more than that signed in in that time!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 1moslab on Feb 23, 2016, 03:40 PM
Vex ;D
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Rags777 on Feb 23, 2016, 06:46 PM
don't really like the way this poll is leaning  ;D and I don't think this is gonna settle anything Roy  :roflmao:
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: WhereDaRainbows on Feb 23, 2016, 07:00 PM
I love my flx28!! Way better then my previously owned lx7
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: yoopermjm on Feb 23, 2016, 07:22 PM
Marcum, Chevy, Polar Bird, Nils, Milwaukee Fuel, Pflueger, Trilene Micro Ice 2Lb, Frabill Titanium Spring Bobber, Tungsten Jig, Makiplastics, Striker Hardwater, LaCrosse Ice King Plus, Kromer, Busch Light.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Feb 23, 2016, 10:56 PM
I've owned a few units over the years.

The units I have kept.

fL18,FL20,FL22,&FL28


Personally I feel the best bang for the buck on the market is.....

an FL18 with a tri beam.

Vexilar offers simplicity, bottom zoom , and 3 beams. Something marcum or Humminbird doesn't offer.

After playing with about every unit and owning most, I feel the FL 18 offers the basic most important options at the cheapest price. Holds its resale really well and is SIMPLE to use.

With saying that I found myself fishing 99.9% of the time with my FLX28 double vision tri beam and DVR camera with DTD. Since my flx28 head is on my double vision.

If I had to suggest a unit to anyone I would tell them to get an FL18 double vision with DTD & a tribeam. Has everything you need with simple solid easy to learn settings.

anything else is bells and whistles with a really pain in the rear learning curve to get the settings right.

I found marcum products to be over price and a PITA to set. I have met numerous people who by a marcum and sell it later. It's not a bad product and good customer service, just never seems to work quite like my vexilar products.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Wyoming_Ice on Feb 23, 2016, 11:27 PM
 I like Vexilars float on my LX6's transducer cable  ;D     

  Wyo Ice
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: lippy on Feb 24, 2016, 02:48 AM
Marcum LX7
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: ifish4fishwithteeth on Feb 24, 2016, 04:06 AM
Marcum LX5
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Flint on Feb 26, 2016, 03:03 PM
Marcum LX5 for best mechanical flasher.If it had a dimmable display it would be about perfect.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: rpdog on Feb 26, 2016, 03:09 PM
I drive a G M C. Sorry I'm bored
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: bigredonice on Feb 26, 2016, 03:16 PM
no technology out there for ice fisherman (yet) that will catch you more fish.   so ill take the most simple unit with the bulletproof tech that is least likely to break down.

whoever comes out with 360* side scan unit specifically for ice fishing will get my money
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: sickchopperaltitude on Feb 26, 2016, 03:25 PM
Although I haven't bought anything I'm sold on marcums new digital flashers and from what I understand they do have bottom zoom.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Mrp2000 on Feb 26, 2016, 06:46 PM
Vex
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Eskimo6120 on Feb 27, 2016, 11:14 PM
Went on a budget buy and got a fl8. Minus the zoom feature, it works flawlessly. What else do you need
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Adkrs on Feb 27, 2016, 11:30 PM
I will move this to the ice fishing with electronics after its been up for a week. Then when the question of which is the best sonar comes up, we can just redirect the person to this thread.  ;D

I reckon thats that. Marcum wins
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: HeclaHardWater on Mar 01, 2016, 09:43 AM
Zercom BABY!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 3300 on Mar 01, 2016, 07:36 PM
Zercom BABY!
sounds like part of frank zappas lyrics in "moving to montana soon".

got any link or model so i can look that up? never heard of them other than music.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Adkrs on Mar 01, 2016, 07:37 PM
sounds like part of frank zappas lyrics in "moving to montana soon".

got any link or model so i can look that up? never heard of them other than music.
Theyre older than you. The OG vex
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 3300 on Mar 01, 2016, 07:38 PM
how old am i?
how old is it?

my daughter says og means original gangster.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: matzilla on Mar 02, 2016, 01:48 PM
sounds like part of frank zappas lyrics in "moving to montana soon".

got any link or model so i can look that up? never heard of them other than music.

https://www.google.com/#q=zercom
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 3300 on Mar 02, 2016, 04:15 PM
http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=332863.msg3526572#msg3526572

thanks matt, google doesn't work with my browser but i found some info on it anyway.

heres one for sale for 29 bucks
http://www.ebay.com/bhp/zercom

some is chatter on it from 5 years ago
http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=178075.0

looks like marcum wins!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: sra61 on Dec 22, 2016, 04:56 PM
MarCum all the way. Comparing a Vex to a MarCum is like comparing an old pinball machine with bells and lights to a Playstation 4! MarCum!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Elkhnter on Dec 22, 2016, 05:09 PM
Humminbird 570 Graph- As i like to see fish as a Fish and not a Yellow,Red Or Orange line..  I'm just a visual guy and it works 100% perfect for me!!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: icejohn on Jan 10, 2017, 07:48 AM
had vex fl8, bacic model and used it at leasts ? 15 yrs and wouldn't fish without it....until lost in my barn fire. i replaced it with the marcum basic unit vxli each are same price $299,99 but marcum has bottom zoom and has a great case that comes with it..
my 2cents.
icjohn
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: jawi. on Jan 10, 2017, 09:52 AM
Marcum LX5i
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: iceman260 on Jan 10, 2017, 01:35 PM
Vex all the way.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Jan 10, 2017, 09:05 PM
What the vex
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: IM-POUNDING- R -U on Jan 10, 2017, 09:14 PM
Till they pry my Vexilar out of my cold dead hands
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: IM-POUNDING- R -U on Jan 12, 2017, 11:54 PM
303 Members voted and 353 votes?mmmmm?  Due the math.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Adkrs on Jan 13, 2017, 10:35 AM
303 Members voted and 353 votes?mmmmm?  Due the math.

Russians  ;)
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: 3274mike on Jan 14, 2017, 09:02 AM
Humminbird
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: luv2fish2 on Nov 02, 2017, 06:29 AM
bird
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: FrozenTRD on Nov 25, 2017, 09:33 PM
Vex guy here, hard to play (fish) with others interference.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: slipperybob on Dec 01, 2017, 03:39 AM
last I checked:

353 members = 353 votes...  ;D
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: quickco on Dec 01, 2017, 07:10 AM
I have not been around too many BUT the marcum i used from a friend convinced me to order my first, just a vx-1i but i liked it compared the the vex another guy tried getting me turned onto. the extra cash for the soft case for the vex is silly, and I didnt try the zoom on the vex but i hear they are not so good.
SO   MARCUM!!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Bigfathead on Dec 12, 2017, 12:02 PM
Dodge Ram with a Marcum

Now if I put Marcum into the category of a Dodge I would’ve kept the Vexilar as my first unit!😂
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Doeslayer on Dec 12, 2017, 12:09 PM
Vexilar all the way
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: sfw1960 on Jan 15, 2018, 08:47 PM
 ???


There is NO "G" in Humminbird....



(https://s26.postimg.cc/e36coalp5/Humminbird-pirate-z-1215-121566.jpg)
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Seamonkey84 on Oct 24, 2018, 08:35 PM
I go with other, panoptix is the new game in town.
That said, haven’t used it though the ice yet, but I’d go with any graph over a flasher any day. Though I just learned the The biggest difference between vex and everything else, graph display aside, the raw analog signal.
Described very well in this video, towards the end at the 6 min mark


That kinda gives vex an advantage when it comes to display speed and the slightest movement showing as a flicker. but when it comes to overal user options and ability’s like graph display, gps, and eveyhing else that others have to offer, it’s kind of lacking. 
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: HWeber on Oct 24, 2018, 09:21 PM
yeah almost comparing apples and oranges at this point even among the typical "flasher" brands throw in garmin and they win without question.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: fishinjohn on Oct 25, 2018, 05:39 AM
LOVE MY MARCUM!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: esox_xtm on Oct 25, 2018, 06:47 AM
I have a question. This thread started in February 2016. Does anyone believe this can ever be "finally settled"?  >:D

On the other hand I do enjoy reading all the different viewpoints and experiences. Carry on...  :clap:
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Iceassin on Oct 25, 2018, 10:17 AM
I have a question. This thread started in February 2016. Does anyone believe this can ever be "finally settled"?  >:D

On the other hand I do enjoy reading all the different viewpoints and experiences. Carry on...  :clap:

As long as there is new and improved and hell hasn't froze over there will be different viewpoints, preferences and debates on this topic.

So, St. Croix vs. Jason Mitchell vs. Frabill...let's settle this finally! :whistle: :roflmao:
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Chesterpeak on Jan 09, 2019, 05:32 PM
LX-9 mounted on vexilar ultrapack.
Just fits in a 5 gal bucket
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: JonPerry on Jan 09, 2019, 05:40 PM
Like apples & oranges... ;)
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: icebuckboy on Jan 13, 2019, 09:00 AM
I had 2 different Hummingbirds that I used before. Leaning towards a Marcum Showdown now.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: ice dawg on Jan 13, 2019, 09:42 AM
I have an FL18, LX5 and Helix 7 g2 gsp. I like all of them.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: HWeber on Jan 13, 2019, 11:02 AM
We need a new poll
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: appleye on Jan 24, 2019, 02:07 PM
Garmin and Lowrance need to be added to the poll.  ::)
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: jbird68 on Nov 20, 2019, 06:26 AM
First flasher was a Aqua Vu VPG (Marcum Showdown).
Then I added a Lowrance EliteElite-5 Which was a little buggy.
Now I have a Garmin EchoMap 73dv with gt-8 transducer.


But my favorite is still the Showdown. The target separation is awesome. Used the Garmin and showdown side-by-side last year and the showdown seemed to be able to tell my jig apart from the bottom or fish better. On the Garmin everything just seemed to be mashed together on the screen. But I was also using the transom mount transducer mounted on a pvc pipe. This year I have the gt-8 ice transducer. Can't wait to try it and see if it makes a difference.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Mancaveburnett on Nov 20, 2019, 06:44 AM
Marcum lx5i
Hands down the best flasher/ fish finder
Argument settled
Good day
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Iceassin on Nov 20, 2019, 06:55 AM
I vote it will NEVER be finally.😉
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: esox_xtm on Nov 20, 2019, 07:55 AM
Marcum lx5i
Hands down the best flasher/ fish finder
Argument settled
Good day

Oh good! Finally this is over!  :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Iceassin on Nov 20, 2019, 08:14 AM
Oh good! Finally this is over!  :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:

Oh Brother...🙄🤣
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: iceman260 on Dec 24, 2019, 07:34 AM
Vexilar FL-18 very reliable no issues in twenty years catch a lot of fish with it.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: ice dawg on Dec 24, 2019, 10:27 AM
I have Vexilar, Marcum and Humminbird ice units. What to do? What to do?  :o
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: DR.SPECKLER on Dec 24, 2019, 10:30 AM
I have Vexilar, Marcum and Humminbird ice units. What to do? What to do?  :o
get rid of the marcum.jk
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: bigfoot86 on Dec 27, 2019, 10:51 AM
Marcum lx5i....love it!
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Iceattic on Dec 27, 2019, 11:52 AM
I bought a vex fl8  2years ago for $150 and was amazed. Really like it. This year I found a Marcum lx5 on eBay for $200. Cant wait to try it out, if we get some ice here in ne pa! I have a split decision.
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Unclegillhunter on Dec 27, 2019, 02:54 PM
What ever sees fish on the ice is alright, alright!
Keep it safe! JDL
Title: Re: Marcum vs. Vexilar vs. hummingbird vs. other POLL(Lets settle this finally!)
Post by: Tom7541 on Dec 27, 2019, 03:32 PM
I use my humminbird 798ci off the boat with the portable shuttle best of all world gps, graph and flasher mode if you like that can use rts window for great separation. Zoom the entire water column, and mapping is great see something you like while trolling lake drop a mark and can hit it dead on during hard water so humminbird for me, i also have a marcum flasher thats almost 20 years old still works great take that as a backup or for a friend.