HDS8 vs. HDS8 Gen2

[Cleverhuh]

What do I lose with buying an HDS8 vs. an HDS8 Gen2? There are some good deals out there for the non-Gen2 models but I don't want a unit that has problems or missing too many features.

[Ken Sauret]

No let down to speak of with a Gen 1. The processor is faster in the Gen 2 and you will notice this with the Chart refresh, loading pages, etc. The only "Feature" that the Gen 2 has the the Gen 1 doesn't have is the Structure Map. You can go to this link for details

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

I still have Gen 1 HDS on my boat. I got to try an HDS Gen 2 for a couple weeks but had to return it. I am very happy with my Gen 1 HDS units. They are the best I have ever used. I will be upgrading as my budget allows but if I were you I would look at my budget and get the best HDS units you can afford. Best can be the biggest screen or maybe the Gen 2 for the features. It will be personal preference as to what value you get for the amount of money you have to spend.

Just for a point of reference I have an HDS 8 Gen 1 at my console with Structure Scan and I have an HDS 10 Gen 1 at the bow with it's own Structure Scan on the trolling motor. I will be upgrading this summer to 2 HDS 10's with Structure Scan ( it's the same LSS-1 for Gen 1 or Gen 2) so I'll just keep the ones I have.

[Cleverhuh]

Thank you Ken. I'm going with two HDS8 Gen 1s.