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I have a matrix 12. it came on the prowler 13 I bought a couple of years ago. so, that ought to tell you it's an older unit. it has a bigger screen and good clarity, but lower resolution. I think it's like 320x240 which isn't that great on a 5" screen. you can plug a gps into it, but it doesn't have all the gps features available. big problem is that it's only a single beam, 20 degree beam. very narrow. you miss alot of stuff. get one with the dual beam. check humminbird's website, I believe there are several pirana models that do dual beam for under $150.
right now I have a humminbird 363. 4" b&w screen (I know some guys will swear by color, but I don't think it matters that much), dual beam, gps and all the gps features. it also has better resolution. got the thru hull transducer that fits the scupper hole on OK kayaks. that makes a HUGE!! difference, having the puck in the water versus inside the hull. great unit for under $300. and the new 300 series models also support navionics maps. (sucks for me, bought mine last year. might be time to upgrade!!!)
I need to learn to use the arches view instead of fish view. supposed to be much better once you understand it.
I really like the gps combo feature. especially with the mapping feature. what I really like is being able to put the map with spots marked side by side with the bottom view. so, if you want a gps model, the matrix isn't going to be the best option. in fact, the matrix is now discontinued.
hope that helps.
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