Humminbird Helix 5" Side Imaging 2024
Megastink reply :
I just discovered this unit. It looks like the best value in electronics for the small waters I fish. I'm just looking for opinions from anyone that owns them or knows what theyre talking about (Wayne P.!!!!).
Wayne P. reply :
No one has one. Dealers do not get them until next month.
Sam reply :
Do they have the CHIRP technology?
If not, what do you guys think of its technology?
Too many big words used in the product description for me to understand what technology is being used.
Wayne P. reply :
On 11/27/2014 at 10:06 AM, Sam said:Do they have the CHIRP technology?
If not, what do you guys think of its technology?
Too many big words used in the product description for me to understand what technology is being used.
No it does not CHIRP or Tweet.
Do a web search for CHRIP to see what that is all about.
It's the latest "buzz" word in freshwater sonar units.
From what I have seen posted on some sites, the new GEN 3 Lowrances will have CHIRP built-in.
ColdSVT reply :
Im quite interested in the Helix...they should hit stores next month
The hd di/si unti should be about 500 bucks maybe a hair less.
Once i get to see one in person ill make up my mind on eithet 2 helix units or a 899 series
carlm01 reply :
I just placed a pre-order on the Si/GPS combo .. Megastink I think this will be a nice addition for small waters/ponds especially for the SI ...
Megastink reply :
On 11/30/2014 at 1:41 AM, carlm01 said:I just placed a pre-order on the Si/GPS combo .. Megastink I think this will be a nice addition for small waters/ponds especially for the SI ...
Exactly what I was thinking. I have a 798 hd si unit, and o think the helix is a great addition.
ColdSVT reply :
They should be hitting shelves soon...i really wanna see one before i buy one lol
Wayne P. reply :
One on-line dealer got some DI/GPS models and just had one left earlier today.
They will be taking care of their pre-orders first.
flyfisher reply :
I am going to look into this unit as well after a lengthy post about mounting one on a kayak and was informed from our resident electronics guru that this unit was coming out this year or early next 
Wayne P. reply :
Saw a dealer announcement today that they have the SI/GPS version in stock now.
$456.00
carlm01 reply :
My unit is shipping to me today ,Should have it by the end of the week ....
TNRanger reply :
Tempting to pull the trigger on two of these. I think I will wait and hear some user reviews first...
carlm01 reply :
The screens not giant but they are packed with features and priced right .....
Bassaddict74 reply :
Anybody know who's selling the SI unit? TW only has the DI/GPS unit.
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/20/2014 at 10:48 PM, Bassaddict74 said:Anybody know who's selling the SI unit? TW only has the DI/GPS unit.
Yes, PM sent
Bassaddict74 reply :
Perfect. Thanks
ColdSVT reply :
Apparently they are not linkable?
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/21/2014 at 9:56 AM, ColdSVT said:Apparently they are not linkable?
That is correct. Neither are the PMax, 300, 500, and 600 series.
carlm01 reply :
Guys received my Helix 5 SI/GPS today , Very good looking unit and the display is bigger than I thought ,,Heres a few pics Carl
carlm01 reply :
/i put my sunglasses on the box to give you a little bit of scale ....
TNRanger reply :
On 12/22/2014 at 1:29 AM, carlm01 said:Guys received my Helix 5 SI/GPS today , Very good looking unit and the display is bigger than I thought ,,Heres a few pics Carl IMG_0417-2.JPG IMG_0418-2.JPG IMG_0419.JPG
Very nice! Let us know your thoughts after you play with it a little.
carlm01 reply :
OK I powered it up and it's much more straight forward than my lowrance elite 4x dsi was, cycled thru all the diff screens all seem to be working . I'm using this on my sea eagle 285 pro and this is perfect for it ,I also think it'll be a big hit with the kayakers , I can't get over all the things it does SI/DI Sonar GPS Dual Beam ......Any questions feel free to ask ....
carlm01 reply :
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/22/2014 at 5:08 AM, carlm01 said:OK I powered it up and it's much more straight forward than my lowrance elite 4x dsi was, cycled thru all the diff screens all seem to be working . I'm using this on my sea eagle 285 pro and this is perfect for it ,I also think it'll be a big hit with the kayakers , I can't get over all the things it does SI/DI Sonar GPS Dual Beam ......Any questions feel free to ask ....
The unit is a little better than you may realize.
There is a setting in the Sonar menu tab that turns off the left side digital readouts in the full screen SI view that gives you the whole screen width for Side Imaging. SI Readouts is the menu choice.
Wayne P. reply :
This is what the SI Readout setting does:
carlm01 reply :
Thanks Wayne
carlm01 reply :
Wayne ,Do you know when they'll be a cover for them ?
carlm01 reply :
OK ran into a serious problem , the transducer mount is a piece of garbage they use a bolt with a hex head the nut didn't fit tried to unscrew it and it stripped out , why they didn't use a regular bolt is beyond me , Don't know what I'm going to do it won't come off ,really stupid design ????
MacP reply :
Could you post a picture with you holding the unit or any other better size comparison?
carlm01 reply :
I'll try MacP ,I just got off the phone with hummingbird they're sending out a new transducer unit , So I'll check the nut and bolt out before I assemble it ... I will say ,this is another reason I prefer hummingbird their customer service has always been very good ,at least to me..
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/22/2014 at 8:28 PM, carlm01 said:
IMG_0421.JPG
IMG_0421.JPGSince I have assembled a few dozen of those mounts and I have several, there is no issue with them.
When you screw up and cross thread the nut, that is your fault, not Humminbirds.
I have done it myself not paying attention.
That mount is used with all the small transom mount transducers, 2D, DI, SI, and Quad Beam.
carlm01 reply :
Hey Wayne I didn't cross thread it, the nut might not have been the correct one , Ive been doing this for awhile too buddy ....
MacP reply :
I'd appreciate it. I can't get a good gauge on how big the screen is. I hope it's bigger than my cell phones!
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 12:08 AM, carlm01 said:Hey Wayne I didn't cross thread it, the nut might not have been the correct one , Ive been doing this for awhile too buddy ....
LOL, I've heard that before.
When you get the new mount, hold the nut in the bottom of the hex pocket with your finger as you turn the bolt with the hex wrench or you will cross thread it again.
carlm01 reply :
LOL, I'll try threading it before It gets attached to anything
Bassaddict74 reply :
I just purchased my Helix SI this morning. I'm excited
and nervous at the same time. I purchased it from Boaters Land.
(AKA SJK products) I got a great deal BUT I won't see it until mid February.
Anybody ever purchase anything from this company?
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 1:39 AM, Bassaddict74 said:I just purchased my Helix SI this morning. I'm excited
and nervous at the same time. I purchased it from Boaters Land.
(AKA SJK products) I got a great deal BUT I won't see it until mid February.
Anybody ever purchase anything from this company?
I haven't but checked their site and the prices look good.
Did you order the KVD version? That is less than the other SI model.
Very good price for that much technology.
TNRanger reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 3:04 AM, Wayne P. said:I haven't but checked their site and the prices look good.
Did you order the KVD version? That is less than the other SI model.
Very good price for that much technology.
KVD version is $16 cheaper and comes with a "pack of lures"...lol thats a no brainer!!
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 3:32 AM, TNRanger said:KVD version is $16 cheaper and comes with a "pack of lures"...lol thats a no brainer!!
Not only that the unit has the red bling and KVD's signature.
carlm01 reply :
WOW!! I ordered the wrong one LOL
TNRanger reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 3:35 AM, Wayne P. said:Not only that the unit has the red bling and KVD's signature.
Even better, didnt notice that...
carlm01 reply :
It's a very nice unit ,You'll be happy ...
Bassaddict74 reply :
I bought the KVD verzion. Every dollar counts right. Extra money to buy more stuff i dont need. LOL
carlm01 reply :
There was a pretty good swing in prices the big stores where a lot more expensive ... Hope everyone shopped around ...
TNRanger reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 3:48 AM, carlm01 said:There was a pretty good swing in prices the big stores where a lot more expensive ... Hope everyone shopped around ...
Boater's land seems to be the cheapest Ive seen. Please PM me if you have found something cheaper...
TNRanger reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 1:39 AM, Bassaddict74 said:I just purchased my Helix SI this morning. I'm excited
and nervous at the same time. I purchased it from Boaters Land.
(AKA SJK products) I got a great deal BUT I won't see it until mid February.
Anybody ever purchase anything from this company?
Where did it tell you they would not ship until Mid-Feb?
Bassaddict74 reply :
When I ordered it the guy told me that the KVD was B/O until mid February but the regular SI was the end of January.
If you read closely, there website says "Preorder". I don't think there's more bang for your buck than this unit. worth the wait IMO
TNRanger reply :
Well I broke down and ordered two!
Mid-February delivery is close enough to my birthday to justify it to the Mrs. (I hope) lol...
Bassaddict74 reply :
Congrats. I read somewhere, "The famous last words of a fisherman".
" I hope when I die my wife doesn't sell my fishing gear for what I told her I paid for it"
TNRanger reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 8:22 AM, Bassaddict74 said:Congrats. I read somewhere, "The famous last words of a fisherman".
" I hope when I die my wife doesn't sell my fishing gear for what I told her I paid for it"
Hilarious! And so true.
soopd reply :
Is the processor speed on these able to handle the Lakemaster maps?
I have an older 798 and when I zoom in it takes about 30 seconds per zoom level with the new lakemaster map.
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/23/2014 at 10:25 AM, soopd said:Is the processor speed on these able to handle the Lakemaster maps?
I have an older 798 and when I zoom in it takes about 30 seconds per zoom level with the new lakemaster map.
I doubt it will equal the 798.
No one really knows since they were just released this past week.
pit_boss reply :
Per the forum rules, could someone please PM me their preferred marine electronics dealer.
It looks like my big box store is offering $500 even.
Thanks : )
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/26/2014 at 1:31 AM, pit_boss said:Per the forum rules, could someone please PM me their preferred marine electronics dealer.
It looks like my big box store is offering $500 even.
Thanks : )
Done
carlm01 reply :
Here's the set up for my sea eagle 285 pro The box is just there to hold the top part of the scotty mount stabile on the boat it's mated to the mount ....
MacP reply :
I went to buy one today, couldn't find it for the base model or DI. I know Humminbird will change out transducers, but is there anywhere I could order the Helix 5 base or DI model with a trolling motor transducer?
flyfisher reply :
On 12/27/2014 at 12:33 AM, carlm01 said:
Is that the SI transducer?
carlm01 reply :
Yes
flyfisher reply :
On 12/28/2014 at 10:37 AM, carlm01 said:Yes
cool....i thought it would be larger.
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/28/2014 at 10:29 AM, MacP said:I went to buy one today, couldn't find it for the base model or DI. I know Humminbird will change out transducers, but is there anywhere I could order the Helix 5 base or DI model with a trolling motor transducer?
Not that I am aware of.
You will have to call some dealers and ask.
carlm01 reply :
MacP I'm not sure about changing transducers , Most only need a different bracket that's sold as an accessory ..
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/29/2014 at 3:42 AM, carlm01 said:MacP I'm not sure about changing transducers , Most only need a different bracket that's sold as an accessory ..
Actually not.
For the DI or SI version you would want the trolling motor puck transducer rather than adapting the transom transducer for trolling motor use.
The pucks have extra internal shielding to help with possible RFI from the trolling motor.
Bottom line is, use the correct parts for the application.
The Imaging pucks look like the larger one.
The regular 2D puck is the round one.
Neither needs an adaptor for the application and come with the stainless steel hose clamp.
carlm01 reply :
Sorry but when I pulled up the transducer on my unit it came up with a bracket and no mention of the other transducers ,maybe because they're still new ??
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/29/2014 at 5:43 AM, carlm01 said:Sorry but when I pulled up the transducer on my unit it came up with a bracket and no mention of the other transducers ,maybe because they're still new ??
The Helix models use the same transducers as the other models.
Getting all the correct cross references on the web site may be behind though. That typically happens when Humminbird as a lot of new models come out at the same time.
You can even use the HDSI transducer with the Helix SI unit and get sharper images than either Compact SI transducer. It is longer, has longer SI crystals, which produce a thinner SI pulse.
There are two DI trolling motor puck versions. The one that is compatable with the Helix DI unit is the XTM 9 DI 25 T.
BG RTR reply :
Wayne
Do you have to purchase the trollong motor DI puck or can the transducer that comes with the unit be exchanded fir it?
Wayne P. reply :
On 12/29/2014 at 11:18 AM, BG RTR said:Wayne
Do you have to purchase the trollong motor DI puck or can the transducer that comes with the unit be exchanded fir it?
Humminbird has a transducer exchange program. Call their customer service to arrange it for an unopened transducer package in the box.
Xped reply :
On 12/22/2014 at 8:28 PM, carlm01 said:
Hey,
Been looking at the helix 5 and came across this post.
Just out of curiosity, you do realize you assembled the bolt and nut on the wrong side of the mount? You see the little pocket on one side of the mount that will fit the nut perfectly? If you place the nut on that side, you won't need a wrench...all you'll need is a hex key as the pocket will hold the nut securely while you tighten. Put it the other way around and you'll have one heck of a time tightening it properly...it will be even harder to loosen as you've experienced.
If I'm stating the obvious here, I apologise and will go back into hiding.
Right now I'm trying to decide between the Humminbird helix 5 and the Humminbird 688. It seems like a no brainer to go with the helix 5 but I wonder if I'm missing anything. Does the 688 have anything the helix doesn't?
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/17/2015 at 8:45 AM, Xped said:Hey,
Been looking at the helix 5 and came across this post.
Just out of curiosity, you do realize you assembled the bolt and nut on the wrong side of the mount? You see the little pocket on one side of the mount that will fit the nut perfectly? If you place the nut on that side, you won't need a wrench...all you'll need is a hex key as the pocket will hold the nut securely while you tighten. Put it the other way around and you'll have one heck of a time tightening it properly...it will be even harder to loosen as you've experienced.
If I'm stating the obvious here, I apologise and will go back into hiding.
Right now I'm trying to decide between the Humminbird helix 5 and the Humminbird 688. It seems like a no brainer to go with the helix 5 but I wonder if I'm missing anything. Does the 688 have anything the helix doesn't?
No, the Helix 5 s a better unit for Side Imaging and the 688 is better for Down Imaging and 2D sonar.
Screen WIDTH for Side Imaging, screen HEIGHT for the other technologies.
carlm01 reply :
XPED, It has the same pocket on both sides , but thanks for the input ....Carl
carlm01 reply :
For those interested here's the cover for the Helix 5
strvmmer reply :
I finally saw a Helix 5 in person today and am now leaning towards the Lowrance Gen 2 HDS 7 Touch. To me it was far easier to navigate the menus on the Lowrance. The screen is larger, and the picture seemed crisper for lack of a better term.
carlm01 reply :
and 500.00 more
Xped reply :
On 1/17/2015 at 6:14 PM, carlm01 said:XPED, It has the same pocket on both sides , but thanks for the input ....Carl
Back to my hole I go! Ha ha!
Did you receive another mounting kit from HB? If so, was it different at all from the first one? Different nut?
I just placed an order today...the KVD issued one. Backordered...so I won't have it for some time. It's replacing a Lowrance Elite-4x hdi...should be a nice step up.
Thanks for your thought's on the helix 5.
carlm01 reply :
No the same thing, But i pre-threaded the nut on before I attached it ,,, Worked perfectly ...And I think you'll be very happy ,It's a nice unit.................
prjavelin reply :
I got one. The only thing where hummingbird screwed up was with the micro sd card while not being prepared for the switch. Meaning that I can't buy autocharts or any other card/map products from them until the come out with the micro sd versions of everything. They lost a 250$ sale a week ago and I'll probably go with reefmaster for now...
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/18/2015 at 11:54 PM, prjavelin said:I got one. The only thing where hummingbird screwed up was with the micro sd card while not being prepared for the switch. Meaning that I can't buy autocharts or any other card/map products from them until the come out with the micro sd versions of everything. They lost a 250$ sale a week ago and I'll probably go with reefmaster for now...
Navionics has had micro-SD map cards since 2010.
Lakemaster has annual issues of maps and they are released at the beginning of each year.
This is the first year for the Helix and microSD Lakemaster.
Xped reply :
So, I have the helix 5 on order but I'm now second guessing my decison and considering cancelling the order.
Wondering if I should be going with a larger screen.
Humminbird helix 5 versus 899ci SI.
5 inches versus 7 inches. Other than size, are there more features of one over the other that account for the extra $$$$s?
Are the additional 2 inches worth another $400+? I'm not crazy about spending the extra money but I also don't want to be frustrated with SI on a smaller screen. I never thought I'd consider spending just under a thousand bucks on a fishfinder and find it a hard pill to swallow. But...I want to be happy and satisfied with my purchase, too.
Thoughts?
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/19/2015 at 6:12 AM, Xped said:So, I have the helix 5 on order but I'm now second guessing my decison and considering cancelling the order.
Wondering if I should be going with a larger screen.
Humminbird helix 5 versus 899ci SI.
5 inches versus 7 inches. Other than size, are there more features of one over the other that account for the extra $$$$s?
Are the additional 2 inches worth another $400+? I'm not crazy about spending the extra money but I also don't want to be frustrated with SI on a smaller screen. I never thought I'd consider spending just under a thousand bucks on a fishfinder and find it a hard pill to swallow. But...I want to be happy and satisfied with my purchase, too.
Thoughts?
The concept is simple, BIGGER is better for a Side Imaging unit.
That is because the size of displayed subjects is based on the SI RANGE setting, not the depth like Down Imaging and 2D sonar is.
In a 5" unit, the Helix 5 is better than a square screen or the narrow vertical screen of the 698ci HD SI due to screen WIDTH.
Side Imaging scrolls across the display from top to bottom using the WIDTH of the screen to display subjects.
This is Side Imaging showing 100' of coverage left to right on a 5" square screen:
The physical screen dimensions are 3.625" X 3.625"
The Helix display is 2.5" X 4.25"
carlm01 reply :
The best advice I can give you is to try and see both units side by side ..
Xped reply :
On 1/19/2015 at 6:26 AM, carlm01 said:The best advice I can give you is to try and see both units side by side ..
Ha ha! I know myself pretty well. I'd be walking out of there with a 12" display! I'm trying to figure out my real needs before up-selling myself. ;-)
While I dislike spending extra money, I can appreciate that a larger screen would be better...especially for SI. Wondering out loud if it's $400 better. Keep in mind, I'm coming from a Lowrance Elite-4x...whatever I'm going to get will look better.
A 7" screen has roughly double the display real estate of the 5". My eyes are starting to grow older and may appreciate the help.
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/19/2015 at 7:42 AM, Xped said:Ha ha! I know myself pretty well. I'd be walking out of there with a 12" display! I'm trying to figure out my real needs before up-selling myself. ;-)
While I dislike spending extra money, I can appreciate that a larger screen would be better...especially for SI. Wondering out loud if it's $400 better. Keep in mind, I'm coming from a Lowrance Elite-4x...whatever I'm going to get will look better.
A 7" screen has roughly double the display real estate of the 5". My eyes are starting to grow older and may appreciate the help.
A Humminbird 5" square screen is 3.625" wide--that is the 500 and 700 series SI units.
The Humminbird Helix 5" rectangular screen is 4.25" wide
The Humminbird 800 series 7" rectangular screen is 6.125" wide
The Humminbird 900 series 8" rectangular screen is 6.875" wide
The Humminbird 1100 series 10.4" rectangular screen is 8.375" wide
Xped reply :
On 1/19/2015 at 8:28 AM, Wayne P. said:A Humminbird 5" square screen is 3.625" wide--that is the 500 and 700 series SI units.
The Humminbird Helix 5" rectangular screen is 4.25" wide
The Humminbird 800 series 7" rectangular screen is 6.125" wide
The Humminbird 900 series 8" rectangular screen is 6.875" wide
The Humminbird 1100 series 10.4" rectangular screen is 8.375" wide
Appreciate all the info!
I think the 800 series is getting just a tad out of my price range.
In your opinion, considering screen size and all other features, which would be the better unit to go with:
Helix 5 @ $499 (prices Canadian)
or
798ci SI Combo @ $699 (prices Canadian)
I understand that screen width is much more desirable when considering SI images...but I'm kind of looking for an overall unit that does all three decently. The 798ci, while being a tad smaller in the screen width, is well over an inch taller and seems to have quite a few more features. Not sure if I'm trying to sell mysefl on the 798 but would be interested to learn your thoughts between the two.
Honestly, I would love to splurge and go with the 899...just can't seem to get over spending that kind of dough!
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/20/2015 at 2:07 AM, Xped said:Appreciate all the info!
I think the 800 series is getting just a tad out of my price range.
In your opinion, considering screen size and all other features, which would be the better unit to go with:
Helix 5 @ $499 (prices Canadian)
or
798ci SI Combo @ $699 (prices Canadian)
I understand that screen width is much more desirable when considering SI images...but I'm kind of looking for an overall unit that does all three decently. The 798ci, while being a tad smaller in the screen width, is well over an inch taller and seems to have quite a few more features. Not sure if I'm trying to sell mysefl on the 798 but would be interested to learn your thoughts between the two.
Honestly, I would love to splurge and go with the 899...just can't seem to get over spending that kind of dough!
I purchase a Side Imaging unit for the Side Imaging feature-the other stuff is very secondary.
Yes, a taller display will do better for Down Imaging and 2D sonar as individual views.
But combine them in a dual view, this is what the 798 does.
For the 798:
Chart/2D and Chart/DI are side by side.
Chart/SI is one above the other.
Your anticipated use should determine which screen layout/ shape you prefer.
The 798ci SI Combo has been discontinued for over 3 years.
The 798ci HD SI Combo was discontinued at the end of 2013.
The both 798's can share data with other units, the Helix cannot
The 798's have dual card readers, the Helix has one
The 798's have 3 short cut buttons for favorite views, the Helix has none.
TNRanger reply :
On 1/19/2015 at 6:12 AM, Xped said:So, I have the helix 5 on order but I'm now second guessing my decison and considering cancelling the order.
Wondering if I should be going with a larger screen.
Humminbird helix 5 versus 899ci SI.
5 inches versus 7 inches. Other than size, are there more features of one over the other that account for the extra $$$$s?
Are the additional 2 inches worth another $400+? I'm not crazy about spending the extra money but I also don't want to be frustrated with SI on a smaller screen. I never thought I'd consider spending just under a thousand bucks on a fishfinder and find it a hard pill to swallow. But...I want to be happy and satisfied with my purchase, too.
Thoughts?
I just went through the same decision. Had two Helix SI units on order and cancelled them after deciding screen size would be an issue and I would end up wanting to upgrade anyway. I also really wanted to be able to network between units. I initially decided on the 899/859 combo but ended up going with a 999/859 at the last minute. My units have not even arrived yet but I am confident that I made the right decision - even though my 999 cost more than the 2 Helix units put together, lol!
BTW - You can get a new 899SI HD combo for $860 online or used for about $600.
Xped reply :
On 1/20/2015 at 3:33 AM, TNRanger said:BTW - You can get a new 899SI HD combo for $860 online or used for about $600.
That's a great price. However, convert that to Canadian and add duty, taxes and shipping...suddenly I'm north of $1100. Not saying I won't spend the extra...just a hard pill to swallow.
TNRanger reply :
On 1/20/2015 at 3:44 AM, Xped said:That's a great price. However, convert that to Canadian and add duty, taxes and shipping...suddenly I'm north of $1100. Not saying I won't spend the extra...just a hard pill to swallow.
Ouch. That is tough...
Xped reply :
Thanks for all the info!!! Helped me spend MORE money! 
I ended up buying the 899ci HD SI combo. The way I viewed it, the 798 wasn't exactly cheap....would hate to spend a lot of money on something that I wasn't totally satisifed with. In the end, I wanted to buy a unit that I could use properly and be happy with.
Besides, doesn't matter which unit I bought....I'm going to be in the same amount of trouble from the wife regardless of whether it was $700 or $1000!!! Just another item to be hidden until it looks a little used...go big or go home! 
NJBasstard reply :
Anybody plan on exchanging there transducer? I've seen in mentioned a few times just not sure how much it'd benefit on a 5" screen.
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/21/2015 at 2:17 PM, NJBasstard said:Anybody plan on exchanging there transducer? I've seen in mentioned a few times just not sure how much it'd benefit on a 5" screen.
A sharper image is better regardless of screen size.
carlm01 reply :
Wayne so a different transducer would be better for the H-5 SI ?
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/21/2015 at 8:06 PM, carlm01 said:Wayne so a different transducer would be better for the H-5 SI ?
The screen shot in post #79 is with the Compact SI transducer.
This is the same unit with the HDSI transducer----notice any difference in image sharpness?
NJBasstard reply :
Thanks for the pic Wayne. I'd been looking for pics to compare without much luck. Am I right in thinking that the HDSI transducer will allow the unit to use DI? This is my first fish finder in about 10 years so this is all new to me..
carlm01 reply :
Wayne wich transducer is that ? I'm not familiar with them .... Thanks Carl
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 3:09 AM, carlm01 said:Wayne wich transducer is that ? I'm not familiar with them .... Thanks Carl
The Helix 5 SI GPS unit comes with the Compact SI transducer XNT 9 SI 180 T
The HDSI transducer is the XHS 9 HDSI 180 T.
The HDSI is 2" longer and has longer Imaging crystals.
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 2:47 AM, NJBasstard said:Thanks for the pic Wayne. I'd been looking for pics to compare without much luck. Am I right in thinking that the HDSI transducer will allow the unit to use DI? This is my first fish finder in about 10 years so this is all new to me..
ALL Humminbird Side Imaging (SI) units do Side Imaging, Down Imaging, 2D sonar and GPS/mapping.
The dual view DI/2D screen shot in post #84 is from a Humminbird 798ci SI Combo ----Side Imaging unit.
You get that with any Side Imaging transducer.
carlm01 reply :
Jesus , that's almost half the cost of the unit LOL really think they'd make that much of a difference on the H-5 ?
Xped reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 3:40 AM, Wayne P. said:ALL Humminbird Side Imaging (SI) units do Side Imaging, Down Imaging, 2D sonar and GPS/mapping.
The dual view DI/2D screen shot in post #84 is from a Humminbird 798ci SI Combo ----Side Imaging unit.
You get that with any Side Imaging transducer.
I know this threat has kind of morphed into different areas but it's a lot of good info in one place.
Wayne, I clearly see the difference in image quality with the HDSI. Will it be this way in all different depths of water...in other words, is the HDSI more suited to viewing a certain depth of water? Does the regular SI transducer excel in any scenario?
As well, maybe a dumb question but does the HDSI impact (+ or -) DI or 2D image quality?
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 6:23 AM, Xped said:I know this threat has kind of morphed into different areas but it's a lot of good info in one place.
Wayne, I clearly see the difference in image quality with the HDSI. Will it be this way in all different depths of water...in other words, is the HDSI more suited to viewing a certain depth of water? Does the regular SI transducer excel in any scenario?
As well, maybe a dumb question but does the HDSI impact (+ or -) DI or 2D image quality?
Excellent questions.
The HDSI transducer produces a thinner Imaging pulse.
That thinner pulse covers less area per pulse (ping) so the detail is "finer" or less blurry than a thicker pulse.
The depth has nothing to do with it, ONLY the coverage per pulse.
The SI and DI is the exact same thing with the Side Imaging units. SI units use the two SI pulses to create the DI view via software by blending the two SI images.
A DI (Down Imaging) unit uses a transducer that has a single dedicated downward focused pulse.
2D sonar is the same with both the Compact SI and HDSI transducers--same diameter crystal, same frequencies, and same spec coverage. ONLY the SI crystals are different and only in their lengths.
Xped reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 6:41 AM, Wayne P. said:Excellent questions.
The HDSI transducer produces a thinner Imaging pulse.
That thinner pulse covers less area per pulse (ping) so the detail is "finer" or less blurry than a thicker pulse.
The depth has nothing to do with it, ONLY the coverage per pulse.
Good stuff.
If one uses the hdsi on an 899ci hd si (or Helix to stay on topic), can you simply switch between the thinner pulses for detailed images and the thicker pulses for more coverage? Or would you need two transducers to produce the two different types of image? Seems like both can serve a purpose...one to locate, the other for detail.
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 8:17 AM, Xped said:Good stuff.
If one uses the hdsi on an 899ci hd si (or Helix to stay on topic), can you simply switch between the thinner pulses for detailed images and the thicker pulses for more coverage? Or would you need two transducers to produce the two different types of image? Seems like both can serve a purpose...one to locate, the other for detail.
No, not even close.
The sound pulses are "broadcast" by the crystals-- like a speaker. Then the crystals senses "listens" the return echos like a microphone.
You use one transducer or the other, the unit itself does not project the sound and hear the echos. The TRANDUCER does that. It is not adjustable. You can't change the shape of the pulse with the unit.
You choose to use to use either the high detail sound transducer or the low detail sound transducer.
One more thing, the Imaging sonar crystals are bar shaped, the length of that bar determines the pulse shape, NO way can the unit change the length of those bars.
This is an X-Ray of a HDSI transducer. The Compact SI transducer is the same, just shorter bars (crystals).
Xped reply :
Gotcha! Makes sense.On 1/22/2015 at 8:29 AM, Wayne P. said:No, not even close.
The sound pulses are "broadcast" by the crystals-- like a speaker. Then the crystals senses "listens" the return echos like a microphone.
You use one transducer or the other, the unit itself does not project the sound and hear the echos. The TRANDUCER does that. It is not adjustable. You can't change the shape of the pulse with the unit.
You choose to use to use either the high detail sound transducer or the low detail sound transducer.
One more thing, the Imaging sonar crystals are bar shaped, the length of that bar determines the pulse shape, NO way can the unit change the length of those bars.
This is an X-Ray of a HDSI transducer. The Compact SI transducer is the same, just shorter bars (crystals).
Sounds like if one wanted to produce the two different images, they would need two separate sets of units/transducers (si compact and hdsi)...or...one unit, two transducers, and a transducer switch.
Is it common to want the ability to produce the two si image types? Or, for those that decide on hdsi simply roll with that only?
Again...appreciate the sharing of your knowledge.
NJBasstard reply :
So by using the HDSI would the Helix be capable of running 800khz?
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 8:56 AM, NJBasstard said:So by using the HDSI would the Helix be capable of running 800khz?
No, a transducer does not give a unit a frequency it doesn't have. The Helix 5 SI GPS has 83/200 kHz for 2D sonar and 455 kHz for Imaging. A transducer is a combo speaker/microphone.
Read the unit specs on the Humminbird web site.
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/22/2015 at 8:51 AM, Xped said:Gotcha! Makes sense.
Sounds like if one wanted to produce the two different images, they would need two separate sets of units/transducers (si compact and hdsi)...or...one unit, two transducers, and a transducer switch.
Is it common to want the ability to produce the two si image types? Or, for those that decide on hdsi simply roll with that only?
Again...appreciate the sharing of your knowledge.
It makes no sense to downgrade the performance of a unit. You always what the best performance and IMPROVE it if possible.
NJBasstard reply :
Thanks again for the help. For the $60 price difference I wonder why HB dosn't just make the HDSI standard on all SI models..
Wayne P. reply :
Technology and parts add cost.
The HDSI is designed to function with 455 and 800 kHz so it comes with most units that have that capability.
The Compact SI transducer is designed to function with 455 kHz--that is the capability of the Helix 5 SI unit.
Those of us with the experience know that the 455 kHz units can be improved with the HDSI transducer.
Humminbird does not promote that use. They promote their design and offer products in a range of prices.
MSRP of the HDSI is $270, MSRP if the Compact SI is $200.
The exchange price with shipping is $85--that has been posted recently by several that have done that exchange.
Bigsteve1830 reply :
Quick question would the gps on this unit be faster/ better than a 688 hd di? Thanks
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/31/2015 at 5:56 AM, Bigsteve1830 said:Quick question would the gps on this unit be faster/ better than a 688 hd di? Thanks
NO, if anything it is equal or it has a slower processor.
The 698ci HD SI Combo is $200 more MSRP than the Helix 5 SI-GPS
Some stuff that affects the price:
Display size
Color or grey scale display
GPS
Background mapping--Uni-map or ContourXD
Mapping capability
Memory card reader/s
Display control buttons
Sonar technology-2D, SI, DI
Bottom line is purchase a model that does what you want it to do and expect that to be reflected in the added cost above a basic unit.
Bigsteve1830 reply :
I have a 688 already but was thinking this for console. Is there any difference in the gps capabilities? Like my 688 seems to take a while to pick just wondering if this one would be faster I guess? Thanks!
Wayne P. reply :
On 1/31/2015 at 7:36 AM, Bigsteve1830 said:I have a 688 already but was thinking this for console. Is there any difference in the gps capabilities? Like my 688 seems to take a while to pick just wondering if this one would be faster I guess? Thanks!
The capabilities are the same as well as the map products they can read.
Any GPS unit takes some time to startup and track enough statellites to establish position.
If you use a max capacity map card, it will take longer.
The units are computers, your computer doesn't instantly function when you push the power button.
Doug P. reply :
Good Day everyone (newbie here). I'm looking to upgrade my 1992 Bass Tracker Hummingbird (ha ha), as I cannot rely on it at all really these days. I'm not a die hard freakazoid when it comes to fishing, but I do love to get out and catch some fish, bigger the better. I've started looking at newer technology to help me maximize my time on the water, produce more fish per amount of time on my trips.
I don't know much about these 2D-Sonar/DI/SI/GPS fish finder electronics, so I figured one of the Bass Pro Shop guys could take me thru the paces and show me some things. The guy at Bass Pro Shops focused on the Helix 5 SI GPS mainly for it's feature and price point (best bang for the buck). I figured ahead of time that $500 was my maximum price I'd spend on electronics. And because I am new to all these fancy tools for fishing, I need to learn to use them and hope they help me catch more fish.
All that said, I've read this entire post and have a few questions for Wayne P. as he seems to have the most insight on this thread:
Question:
Is it possible to connect two Transducers to a "Switch" of sorts, allowing me to have one on the transom and one on my trolling motor connected thru said switch to the Helix 5? That way I could use the one Helix Head Unit with two (one at a time of course) transducers? Do they make such an animal (manual Transducer switching device)? Computer Geek Speak here: Like a KVM where multiple PC's sharing one Keyboard, Video, Mouse? But in this case one Helix 5 would/could use one or the other Transducer via switching between them??
If they do, then this could be a Poor Mans Network connection setup??
What say you Mr. Wayne??
Doug P. reply :
One more question for this Tread: What is the difference in the regular Helix 5 SI/GPS and the one with the KVD option? Is KVD only a branding with a Red Button, or are there more Features and a Pack of Lures?
Nevermind - I see it's just a "Signature Series" from Kevin VanDam.
Wayne P. reply :
On 3/3/2015 at 1:44 AM, Doug P. said:Good Day everyone (newbie here). I'm looking to upgrade my 1992 Bass Tracker Hummingbird (ha ha), as I cannot rely on it at all really these days. I'm not a die hard freakazoid when it comes to fishing, but I do love to get out and catch some fish, bigger the better. I've started looking at newer technology to help me maximize my time on the water, produce more fish per amount of time on my trips.
I don't know much about these 2D-Sonar/DI/SI/GPS fish finder electronics, so I figured one of the Bass Pro Shop guys could take me thru the paces and show me some things. The guy at Bass Pro Shops focused on the Helix 5 SI GPS mainly for it's feature and price point (best bang for the buck). I figured ahead of time that $500 was my maximum price I'd spend on electronics. And because I am new to all these fancy tools for fishing, I need to learn to use them and hope they help me catch more fish.
All that said, I've read this entire post and have a few questions for Wayne P. as he seems to have the most insight on this thread:
Question:
Is it possible to connect two Transducers to a "Switch" of sorts, allowing me to have one on the transom and one on my trolling motor connected thru said switch to the Helix 5? That way I could use the one Helix Head Unit with two (one at a time of course) transducers? Do they make such an animal (manual Transducer switching device)? Computer Geek Speak here: Like a KVM where multiple PC's sharing one Keyboard, Video, Mouse? But in this case one Helix 5 would/could use one or the other Transducer via switching between them??
If they do, then this could be a Poor Mans Network connection setup??
What say you Mr. Wayne??
Yes there is a transducer switch TS3
I know several that do just that including me when I do some experimenting.
Wayne P. reply :
On 3/3/2015 at 2:07 AM, Doug P. said:One more question for this Tread: What is the difference in the regular Helix 5 SI/GPS and the one with the KVD option? Is KVD only a branding with a Red Button, or are there more Features and a Pack of Lures?
Nevermind - I see it's just a "Signature Series" from Kevin VanDam.
Yep, same unit with BLING and a BOOK.
Zjones reply :
So I'm trending strongly toward this unit after reading up on it and I think the forum rules suggest pm's for any insight about the best retailers - I would appreciate any input on your favorite sources for price/service.
Thanks in advance!
srv1990 reply :
Hey all,
Just received my Helix 5 DI - GPS unit. When I talked with the folks at Humminbird and told them I would be mounting the transducer on the trolling motor, the only thing they told me I would need was the Trolling Motor Transducer Adapter, #AD-XTM-9. Nothing was said about needing a different transducer. Am I going to be OK with using the transducer supplied with the unit and the adapter?
Also, earlier in the post (the post title actually ) was asking about Lakemaster vs. Navionics. Since I would be fishing mainly MO lakes, including Table Rock, would the Lakemaster be a quality option for the price?
Thanks!!
Comfortably Numb reply :
TS3 switch is $65
Extra transducer $200+
Keep that in mind
Wayne P. reply :
On 3/12/2015 at 11:03 AM, srv1990 said:Hey all,
Just received my Helix 5 DI - GPS unit. When I talked with the folks at Humminbird and told them I would be mounting the transducer on the trolling motor, the only thing they told me I would need was the Trolling Motor Transducer Adapter, #AD-XTM-9. Nothing was said about needing a different transducer. Am I going to be OK with using the transducer supplied with the unit and the adapter?
Also, earlier in the post (the post title actually
Thanks!!
You should use the proper transducer for the application, a trolling motor PUCK.
The correct one is the XTM 9 DI 25 T. It needs no adaptor and it has extra internal shielding to help with possible RFI from the trolling motor.
Exchange the transom model for the trolling motor model.
Do your installation correctly the first time.
Wayne P. reply :
On 3/12/2015 at 11:03 AM, srv1990 said:Hey all,
Just received my Helix 5 DI - GPS unit. When I talked with the folks at Humminbird and told them I would be mounting the transducer on the trolling motor, the only thing they told me I would need was the Trolling Motor Transducer Adapter, #AD-XTM-9. Nothing was said about needing a different transducer. Am I going to be OK with using the transducer supplied with the unit and the adapter?
Also, earlier in the post (the post title actually
Thanks!!
As far as mapping, if your waters are HD with Lakemaster, that is a good choice. Check the coverage on the Humminbird/Lakemaster website
srv1990 reply :
Excellent feedback to both questions Wayne P., thank you! I will definitely get the XTM 9 DI 25 T, but will keep the transom mount transducer in the event we decide to move the unit to the console down the line. I searched for the XTM 9 DI 25 T and of course found it on the Humminbird site for $199... But also found it at Walmart for $98.41. Looks identical to the one on the HB site. Here's the link:
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Humminbird-Trolling-Motor-Mount-Transducer-XTM-9-DI-25-T/20449484
At a $100 difference I just want to be sure it is, in fact, the same before I order it. (Yes, I'm paranoid 
)
Thanks again!!
Wayne P. reply :
On 3/12/2015 at 9:38 PM, srv1990 said:Excellent feedback to both questions Wayne P., thank you! I will definitely get the XTM 9 DI 25 T, but will keep the transom mount transducer in the event we decide to move the unit to the console down the line. I searched for the XTM 9 DI 25 T and of course found it on the Humminbird site for $199... But also found it at Walmart for $98.41. Looks identical to the one on the HB site. Here's the link:
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Humminbird-Trolling-Motor-Mount-Transducer-XTM-9-DI-25-T/20449484
At a $100 difference I just want to be sure it is, in fact, the same before I order it. (Yes, I'm paranoid
Thanks again!!
Yes I would be too at that price difference. It's the right one though.
A good price on the HDSI transducers too.
Zach Nute reply :
I believe that a Side Imaging unit should have atleast a 7in screen. 5 Inches is just way to small to see all the detail that side imaging offers. That's why I decided not to get it, and I picked up the HDS 9 with structure scan! Highly recommended..!!
mik0317 reply :
Took my new Helix 5 SI on the water for the first time yesterday and I was pleased with the results. I have never used DI or SI before and I am amazed at the detail these features provide! I am still learning the many functions of the unit, but I think I will understand what is below and around me much better now. The screen is a little small, but I found that I adjusted to it just as I do when watching a small screen TV. Also, the feature that allows me to save screenshots on the micro SD card allows me to closer inspect the images on my home computer and hopefully learn better whaat I am seeing one the water.
I have posted a few of the images on the Screenshots post at the beginning of this forum. Comments/suggestions would be appreciated.
Mike
drewmc34 reply :
Quote
I took the plunge and purchased the Helix SI unit this past weekend as well as the navionics gold. This is my first real fish finder and i wanted to see it in person and to talk to the so called "experts" so drove the hour to bass pro. So after the guy at the counter says i got everything i need i head home and try it out and I see my navionics card is a SD Card and the Helix has a Micro SD slot. How the hell do i make this work? Do i need to buy an adapter? or did i buy the wrong Navionics package? Or worse do i have do buy a blank micro SD and perform some kind of IT conversion?
I have been digging through my navionics packaging thinking there might be a micro sd card in there but all it came with was an SD card and USB converter. Any guidance is appreciated
drewmc34 reply :
Nevermind....im an idiot..the micro sd card is inside the SD card! ...glad i didn't drive back up to bass pro and complain to the guy at the counter! ha
Red-Fisher reply :
Last year I purchased the 688CI HD DI, which I now see costs more than the Helix SI with GPS.
Is my 688 superior to the Helix in any way (i.e.: processor speed, other features, etc.)?
Is the Helix simply a screen orientation preference compared to the 688?
I realize I would be adding SI, however are there any other benefits to going with the Helix over my 688?
Wayne P. reply :
The 600 has the three favorite view buttons and is OK in the 2D and DI versions, but not OK in the SI version 698ci SI Combo due to the narrow display. Screen width is the most important factor with a Side Imaging unit.
They have a SD card reader
Just the opposite with the Helix models. The Helix 5 SI GPS is the best choice due to the wide screen, not so much with just the 2D or DI models. They have a microSD card reader.
Operation wise, they are the same with the same basic background map, do not know about the processor speed.
I can find out if that is a deal breaker.
Red-Fisher reply :
I just noticed that the Helix takes a microSD, therefore my Navionics+ on a SD card is not compatible. All being considered I will stick with the 688 which I have barely used and am hoping to experiment with more this summer.
Thanks Wayne P for the info. I may tap into your expertise when my boat hits the water!
Wayne P. reply :
On 4/4/2015 at 4:19 AM, Red-Fisher said:I just noticed that the Helix takes a microSD, therefore my Navionics+ on a SD card is not compatible. All being considered I will stick with the 688 which I have barely used and am hoping to experiment with more this summer.
Thanks Wayne P for the info. I may tap into your expertise when my boat hits the water!
If you have a Navionics+ card, that is a microSD inside a SD adaptor.
Navionics cards have been microSD since 2010.
Even this year's Lakemaster cards are microSD because of the Helix models.
Red-Fisher reply :
yep...you're right! I have a microSD!!!
I'll take a look and compare these 2 units. However, can I use the Navionics+ card that was already used on a different Humminbird sonar/GPS unit?
carlm01 reply :
Wayne or anyone which card is better Avionics or Hummingbirds for our local lakes in NE ?
Wayne P. reply :
On 4/4/2015 at 10:44 PM, carlm01 said:Wayne or anyone which card is better Avionics or Hummingbirds for our local lakes in NE ?
"better" is subjective. First of all Lakemaster has very little coverage for that area since this year is the first year with any coverage at all. Check the lake list for your waters. If any are HD, then Lakemaster would be a good choice.
There is a new feature with Lakemaster called Chart Select. With that you can download a single body of water and have all the Lakemaster features for that location. Refer to the Lakemaster web site for available locations.
To do that you have to encrypt at least a 2GB card to download the map to. Only one location per card.
Encryption was added via software update for several unit models recently.
For Navionics, you can view the current maps on the Navionics website's Web App and know what the coverage is.
carlm01 reply :
Thanks Wayne ,
LuckyGia reply :
I bought one a little while ago. Good unit full of features. WAY TOO SMALL of a screen. It's a toy not a real tool. Trees look like toothpicks on the tiny screen. I will put this in the cockpit and get a 7 or 9 inch for the deck.
Wayne P. reply :
On 4/6/2015 at 11:50 PM, LuckyGia said:I bought one a little while ago. Good unit full of features. WAY TOO SMALL of a screen. It's a toy not a real tool. Trees look like toothpicks on the tiny screen. I will put this in the cockpit and get a 7 or 9 inch for the deck.
Trees will look like toothpicks on the larger screens too. It's all about the unit settings and boat speed.
LuckyGia reply :
I guess I thought that it was like a tv screen, bigger screen, bigger people
Wayne P. reply :
On 4/7/2015 at 4:23 AM, LuckyGia said:I guess I thought that it was like a tv screen, bigger screen, bigger people
Standing timber. dock posts, etc are scanned by the diameter. A 12" tree/post will be the same size as a 12" bass that is parallel with the transducer.
There are some standing trees in this image that was done with a 5" display, but it is not as wide as the Helix.
Note the shadows are the most distinguishable:
If there are whole trees with limbs under water, then they will be displayed well enough to see, but still are relative to the depth and SI range.
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