Chuck, like the other responders, I'm a Garmin aficionado too. Very user friendly, robust, waterproof, shockproof, versatile, good resale value, good customer support, regular free software updates that improve functionality of existing units. They have different groups of products: - aviation - marine - outdoor - automotive. Most of the models in each group are 'crossovers', which means they are reasonably good at other disciplines too. Here's my very short summary (ignoring aviation, which I know nothing about) of what you should get, based on your intended use: car, (motor)bike, walk, ski: GPSMap60C + City Select software. 56Mb of map storage + limited basemap of Americas, 30h battery life on 2 rechargeable penlites, no audio instructions, small but very good colour screen just car budget: Quest (includes City Select software): 256 Mb of map storage + better basemap of Americas, 20h battery life on internal non replaceable battery, audio instructions, very quick calculation, same screen as 60C just car/motorbike hi end: Streetpilot 2600 series (includes City Navigator software), Compact Flash memory ie sky is limit and cheap, good basemap, no battery power, just 12V, large touch screen, audio car + marine budget: GPSMap76C (similar to 60C but floats) car/motorbike + marine hi end: 276C: big screen, 128 Mb Garmin memory cards (expensive), good basemap See garmin.com for prices. If you just want cheap in-car functionality, don't mind fragility and rapid depreciation and if you have some PC skills and don't mind using them you could also get a PDA with a software package (available from Microsoft, Garmin, TomTom). Bear in mind though that although on the road GPSes are fantastic, nothing beats poring over a well-made map in the evenings to plan where you want to go next. Happy navigating, Robin Westy Joker '88 TD BMW R1150GS '03 (and my GPSMap60C on both)
----- Original Message ----- From: "Chuck Reisinger" <chuckphoto@EARTHLINK.NET> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 10:32 AM Subject: GPS Recommendation
I've never owned one....know nothing about them....which moderately priced unit would you recommend and why...and....could you suggest a reputable dealer....also....will this actually take the place of a bazillion maps that I'm now carrying...BTW...budget won't allow $600....some recommendations would be appreciated...Thanks....Chuck.... |
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