[ifsteve]

Simrad is the way to go. But as I tell people, I strongly suggest the NSS Evo series. The rotary dial is way better for making changes while underway. The touch screen only is hard to use when you are running 30 and bouncing in a chop.

As to the mapping software the best thing to do is to go to someplace that has units on display (or look at other boat owners units) and look at the various chart options available for your area. Just because software ABC is really good for one place doesn't mean it will be equally good for your area.

 

[ifsteve]

It isn't that hard to do preplanning for a SIMRAD. Just use google earth and a format converter like GSBABEL.

 

[ifsteve]

Steve, wonder if you would be so kind as to post an easy to follow, step-by-step process for using Google Earth, placing waypoints, using GSBABEL to convert them, and then loading them onto the Simrad?

Would have been happy to do so but Rich is classier than me and quicker on the draw....lol