Garmin GPSmap 76CSx

[Drowned Rat]

Hi guys. I am looking at purchasing this unit and was wodering if anyone out there has one and what you think of it. I would probably get the Inland Lakes and Blue Chart software for it and would like to know what the quality of these charts are. I have the topo "Mapsource" software that I have installed on my etrex Vista B&W, and I'm not too impressed with it. I'm sure it would be better on a color screen though. Also, how do you guys mount this thing to your boats? Are there suction cup mounts that you use or what? I've always liked Garmin, but I've had 2 units go bad on me, (a GPS 12 and my Vista) so I'm getting a little leary. Are there better options?

 

[Boatist]

Re: Garmin GPSmap 76CSx

I have a Garmin GPSMAP 76 not the color unit and it works perfect but the screen is so hard to see driving in the car you need to pull over to be able to see the screen good enough to tell where your are. Also the base maps on the current model they down graded over what they were 5 years ago to force you to buy the maps.

I like the Lowrance Ifinder much better. Screens are much brighter, base map has all the buoy data and more detailed base map. For my use I would not need to buy a upgraded map for on the water. Roads I think the map create 6.3 with reader, cd's and flash card do a great job. $100

Before you buy go to a store and have the saleman show you how it works outdoors in the sun or in your car.
Then do the same with the Lowrance Ifinder H20 C if you do not want the electronic compass and barometric altimeter, or Expidition if you do think you need the compass and altimeter. Lowrance has the full range as well with MP3 player and the works. One last thing is Lowrance comes with a lighter power plug. Garmin make you buy one for $40.

Compare before you buy.

I think the Lowrance is much better value mostly because of the brighter screen and better base map.

Also for either unit I do not see the need for a electronic compass and Barometric altimeter. The GPS altimeter is good to about 100 feet anytime you can see 4 satelites. The compass will come up before you can take 3 steps.

On my GPSMAP 76 by the time you add the bearing and distance data fields not much room compass and altimeter. You can go to another page without the map and use compass rose or stearing indicator if you prefer.

Come back and tell us what you choose and why Please.