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The HDS-8 is excellent in every way ECXEPT speed. The unit is easy to use, offers infinite ways to configure the interface as well as integrate into the way you watch weather, navigate, monitor your boats functions, scan for structure or fish and store your information. BUT, don't be in a hurry, or need information quickly. Even with the base map the unit is painfully slow in processing. Shame on Lowrance for saving a few pennies in a processor after putting so much in a unit. If you choose the HDS, you will LOVE what it does for you, just know that your patience will be tested.
I purchased this Lowrance HDS-8 because it was the lowest priced Multi Function.Display on the market. I have not installed it yet but I have functionally tested it and found the screen size and brightness perfect for aging eyes! I also purchased a Navionics Platinum+ chip in order to have stunning 3D charting as well as satellite map overlay. It really is a great product for the money and I can't wait to use it on my sailboat this Spring. I bought the model with the built in Fish Finder transponder and I also bought a Lowrance Broadband 3G Radar to use with it. I am anxiously awaiting to get on the water!
The Lowrance HDS with insight, is the very best electronics a person could have on their boat. Coupled with the LSS 1, fish have no place to hide. See structure with great detail. Visiting a new lake, not to worry, with the mapping and on screen information, you know where you are and how to get back. On your old favorite lake, "see" what that big "blob" you have been catching fish over really is, find new structure you have been missing, you can scan a much wider area than just a few feet like your old "look down only" sonar. This unit is also quite "user" friendly. In bright sun the screen is very difficult to see.
I use it almost every day and it works as advertised. Display is very good. Features are very good. easy to use if you spend some time learning how. Not a bad deal for the money.
PRICE... it was 600.00 cheaper than Cabela's, Bass PRo, and Sportsman'S warehouse. It works perfectly and does so much more than I ever thought possible. I chose the 8 inch model because the smaller ones were to hard for me to see, and the capabilities of this instrument are beyond comparison. It has the Insight chip in it already which contains the entire coast line of the U.S. plus some 5000 Lakes and Rivers inland, no need to purchase additional chips.