I have had an HDS 7 for the past 7 years or so. (got it right when they came out) I love it, but... Have had to return them several times for various issues. Lowrance has been great working with, but my backlight is going out, so once the sun is up, I'm basically blind. So, loving the brand, I did just order the new HOOK 7. It is MUCH cheaper and seams to do everything the HDS series does for a LOT less. They keep coming out with newer, cheaper units that do all the basic things I need. I don't need the device to connect with other devices or such, which I hear is great if you run a trolling motor or anything else off it. I don' t. So... That's my two cents. Love the brand, but chose to go with a less pricey HOOK vs. the HDS series.