[FlyFishinYakr]

First off how much of that Tax Return do you want to spend?
I bought an Elite 5X DSI for my 2013 Outback.
The only 3 times I took it out was to Castaic (2x on the lagoon 1x on the upper lake), was to play (err...rather familiarize myself) with the Unit and how to access the functions/settings. It seemed to work OK [working the split screen(s), good clear marks once I figured out how to work the settings, structure, etc.), although I didn't fish (the upper lake) to test accuracy of the marks. I would have had the "Jailbirds" been out to play or if the LMB bite in the "Lagoon" had been decent. My only complaint (which was addressed by HOBIE for 2015), was that I couldn't get a temp reading due the interior "wet mount" (the only reasonable option other than the RAM transducer mount) I had ANDY at OEX SSB install on my Kayak and "some clutter" on the screen which I eventually filtered out.
I have heard so many good things about Lowrance products over the years and the performance of my Elite-5, I couldn't help myself when I had a chance at an HDS-8 DSI (for the screen size and dual SD slots) for under $1K for the new 2015 Outback I want to get when I'm better (will be great not having to "squint" to see the screen!).
This is just my opinion and I've noticed everyone seems to have their own preferences. Decide what's the most important to you, do the research and check the reviews from other members or fishing/boating Forums, pay attention to any recurring complaint(s) then make the best decision you can.
There is no guarantee that whatever you purchase will "be perfect" but then on the other hand you will learn what to look for in your next one!
Right now there's a big deal being made of the Dragonfly series (the 7 being the most popular) of FF on the market right now, haven't heard of any "glitches" just satisfied owners.
Best of luck in your search and decision.
FFY