Hiya
Raymarine is fairly new to SA, therefor you'll not get much feed-back. I did a bit of research for you, check:
http://www.bloodydecks.com/forums/electronics/102283-combo-unit-one.html
I have to concur with most of those guys opinions. FURUNO makes THE BEST echo sounders and Garmin makes the best plotters (well, until Furuno brought out their new Navnet 3D!!)
If you really want a two in one unit, look at the Furuno GP7000F. I used one on my old commercial tuna boat and it worked VERY, VERY well. Their more expensive units would be the Navnet VX2 series, which are also VERY good units, but they come at a price. Needless to say, for THE best, look at the new Furuno Navnet 3D.
If you don't mind two seperate units, get a Furuno Digital FCV 585 or 620 (depending on your budget) and a Garmin plotter. Garmins echo sounders are DEFINITELY way below the quality you get with a Furuno. If you're planning on just shallow inshore use, say to 100m deep, the Garmin works fine, so does most top of the range units from other manufacturers. How-ever, once you start operating in deeper waters, these units can't compare to a Furuno.
There's a good reason why 95% of commercial fisherman use FURUNO.
The downside, FURUNO's agents are PERTEC and their service is PATHETIC!! They're also the agents for Navman.
Another tip, do some shopping on the net. You'll be surprised at the prices you pay in the US. You'll get your unit considerabily cheaper, including your vat and customs duty (if any) and shipping costs. I have a buddy in the US who sells marine electronics at very good prices. Do a bit of research and then PM me the model you want and i'll put you in touch with my friend......
Regards
miles
