MyFishFinder.com Just like iceshanty but warmer
I can't give you a complete apples-to-apples comparison, but here is my experience with my 43dv echomap chirp with the GT8IF ducer versus my FLX-28 - and I ran them side by side multiple times.1. There seems to me to bit a slight lag with the Garmin in traditional sonar view and flasher view compared to the FLX-28 - emphasis on slight, but sometimes that is all the difference it takes. That lag is less when running the Garmin unit A-Scope setting to the point of maybe even equal to the Vex. I personally prefer watching the traditional flasher versus the scrolling sonar screen or A-Scope.2. Battery life was suprisingly good on the Garmin unit with running it "wide open" - very comparable to the FLX-28. Never had an issue making it a full day with either unit, and the Garmin was always on longer due to me using it to navigate in addition to fishing.3. Main reason I got the unit to take with ice fishing was the navigation features it has. Absolutely love using it to scout out new spots - the contour features are pretty accurate and you can also map your own to make refinements if need be - I haven't done that. Also nice to have the GPS along with the tracking feature when out on large bodies of water - allows me to return back using the same path I went out.4. Very easy to use and the 63cv sounds even easier. I will likely upgrade to the 63cv due to it's larger size, better resolution, and refined ease of use.5.The quality of the ice bundle is pretty good. The bag itself is well thought out in regards to accessing everything and is actually better than my Vex units IMHO. Battery is very accessible and is held down with (2) velcro straps while the transducer cable can be wound up and securly stored on the frame. The foam float for the transducer adequately supports the weight of the ducer, but it's a bit larger in diameter at 2-3/4".BR
Here is my input from a very experienced Garmin User, 63 bundle is great split fraction lag maybe .1 second, comes with the 8 but can use the bigger better 10 ducer. Maps preloaded and can even make its own. About 30 hours battery life on one 10ah lithium and weighs about 8.4lbs. Costs 550 wereas the echomap 73 non panoptix is 700 what makes it a good choice is the upgradeability, you can add Panoptix when its cheaper. Used PS22 ducers are going for 3-400, the PS22 will even fit inside the small bag. With lithium battery it's less then 10lbs and I got 11.5 hours life at full tilt in sub 40° temps. I would add tons of images but all are to large!
Hey Mat, welcome to Ice Shanty and thanks for chippin' in with the good info! If you like to ice fish, and who here doesn't, you'll find plenty to keep you educated and entertained. From one "Sconnie" to another, pop into your profile and add your location so folks can get a general idea where you're at. It can be as specific as you wish but general is great. It helps us know how to answer any questions you may pose and how to take information you provide. I know, it says "MatfromWisco" but things in the north can be a little different from down south.
What about me Green Bay here
Always nice to see guys/gals from WI on the boards. You fishin' the Bay mostly or travel around? Good luck to you this year and enjoy your new toy!
Well... I got it today... and am playing around on it now.... wow...From having "just a flasher" to all this.... can't wait to get out on the ice...A formal review will follow mid-season.
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Topic: Garmin Echomap Input Wanted (NOT Panoptix related) (Read 4770 times)
