I'm looking to upgrade my electronics I have a Lowerance X15 on my counsel now and have somebody that is selling there LCX 37 for $800.00 because they are going to the HDS 8. Not sure if i should buy the LCX 37 or wait and get the HDS for double the price. What are your thoughts on this? How much better is the HDS? Does anyone have the LCX 37 and what do you think about that unit? Also what about mounting the ducer through the hull? I know a lot of questions but maybe i can get a little advice.
Howdy Perrrch (Casey), I just went through a Sonar ugrade decision two weeks ago on my 'new' Alumacraft boat. I wanted a quality Sonar and GPS Combo that would supoprt the Mille Lacs lake chip. FYI, right now Lowrance has a $100 rebate on the HDS-5 and HDS-7 units. AT Reed's in Onamia, they offered a very good price plus a discount on the Lakemaster Pro chip for Mille Lacs. I had mine installed at Lyback's Marine who also sells them. I purchased the HDS-7 model with the Mille Lacs chip (discounted.) At Reed's I got the best overall prices:
Lowrance HDS-7 w/ 83/200khz transcducer: $829.00 (after rebate and Reed's discount.) LakeMaster Pro Chip for Mille Lacs: $89.00 (Discounted with Lowrance purchase)
The HDS-5 unit was available at $649 ( $549 after rebate is sent in).
Sorry I am not familiar with the LCX 37 model; I replaced a 2001 Eagle Ultra locator which we moved to another family boat to continue its use. So for me it was a good deal to get the HDS-7 model at Reed's and place the older Eagle Ultra in my brother's boat that needed a locator. Hope that is helpful. I recommend either Reed's Sporting Goods in Onamia or Lyback's Marine in Isle. Good Luck, Malmo Mike
I have a LCX 37. Very dependalble unit. I also have 2 HDS 10's. One in bow and 1 at consol with the LCX 37. You are right, the HDS 8 is going to cost you double THE $800.00. The prices Malmo Mike gave on the HDS 7 is very good pricing. Remember, an LCX 37 is an 8" screen. A HDS 7 is a 7" screen. There is quite the difference. HDS will give you Broadband sonar. You will see a difference. Taking it that, at least for now, you won't be looking into Structrue scan. Another $599.99 (I beleive). The HDS 8 & 10 does have the added option of quick keys located below the screen and this is definetely a great addition. Decissions, decissions.
