I currently have a 4kw, 24" Raymarine Radome connected to an E120. The radar is crapping out and I need to replace it. I would like to get an open array for better definition. I can get a used 48" 4kw for around $1500 or spend $3500 for a new HD unit. Is the upgrade to the HD really worth the $$ for someone who runs offshore a dozen times a year?
Thanks
Grady 282
A-Salt Weapon
Yes it is. You may not need an open array, the hd 4kw 24" radome will be a huge improvement over the analog radome. Either way, you will need to make sure the E120 has the latest software to support the HD radar.
Jonathan
www.CKBlantonmarine.com
What do you use the radar for?
I would not spend $3500 on an open array unless you are VERY good tuning it and plan to bird hunt.
Check out a Lowrance HDS8 unit with the new 3g Radar. The new broadband radars by Navico are super nice and super high detail. You can get the lowrance and dome for ~$2500 giving you a brand new gps, radar, sounder system.
Set the trap boys, we going to pass through them again!!
Thanks for the advise. I use it for about 12 offshore trips a year looking for birds and life above the waters surface plus frequent nearshore trips. Also use it for added safety while cruising with the family at night to avoid those annoying crab pots and the misc floating items running offshore before the sun comes up. Ive just always heard that the open array has much better definition.
Grady 282
A-Salt Weapon
the open array will help items show up better. also do you know how to tune it?
21 Contender
I have mostly left my current radome on the preset tune. I have messed with it a little but have never figured out the fine tune settings. I think I am going to scale back from the open array and go with the HD Radome and put the extra money into the new CHIRP sounder and transducer.
Grady 282
A-Salt Weapon
if you aren’t gonna try to tune the radar then what the preset or auto tuning is set @ then there is no need to upgrade. if you can’t or don’t know how to tune a radar to it’s optimal settings you are wasting your time. also if you are running @ night & the radar isn’t set up & you have a collision or an allision you will be found negligent.
21 Contender
Thanks again for all the suggestions. I bit the bullet and ordered the 4kw 48" HD open array radar, a new 1kw thru hull transducer, the latest Platinum Navionics chip and a few other goodies. Hopefully I can figure out how to fine tune the new radar or find someone who wold be willing to help.
Grady 282
A-Salt Weapon
Lots of people on here willing to help. Lots of knowledge on here too.
The first time I met Tugted was when he was on my boat to help me with my radar. I have several PM’s from many others on advice on the best setup/tuning options.
Good Luck
Fishb8 (Fish Bait)
23 Sea Hunt “My Last Boat V”
If you can’t stand behind our soldiers, try standing in front of them.
Its not that tough. I have the 12kW 48" HD Open array with Ewide screens. Honestly there is not much tunning you can do with these anymore. You can make minor adjustments on some settings but a majority of the functionality is automatic now.
I am very happy with mine.
Keep in mind they do not like low power. So make sure your batteries can handle the new radar. After trolling all day with the radar, depthsounder, and stereo on mine sometimes acts up due to low voltage.
I found out a couple months ago how low voltage can wreak havoc on the electronics. I ditched the three tired Decka 27 series (still good for the jon boat) for the larger new 31 series X2 Power batteries that Batteries + was showing at the boat show. It took a lot of work to squeeze them into the battery compartment. They also weighed 22 pounds (each) more than the Decka’s that were in there. They were crazy expensive but they have a no questions asked 48 month warranty with no pro-rated bs to deal with. Also nearly doubled my reserve capacity along with a huge increase in the CCA and MCA. Hopefully I will not have to worry about it for a few years.
Grady 282
A-Salt Weapon