FCV1150 vs TZT16F

[BlueDragon]

I am going to install a new system to my 35' fishing boat and I need some advice to choose the system. I am more concerned about the performance of the fish finder.
Currently I am considering two options: 1971F+1150 or TZT3+deep impact.
I normally fish around 250' to 500' and deep drop to 1800' and sometimes chase tuna and marlins. So, I would prefer a 2kw transducer setup.
Could anyone give me some ideas whether 1150 (without chirp) or tzt3 (with chirp) is better for these conditions?
Thank you very much for your advice.

 

[Quitsa]

It will be interesting to see what the Furuno staff say. The FCV-1150 is "old tech" but it works very well paired with a good transducer and certainly a well-=proven fishfinder.

A TZT 3 with the DI-FFAMP black box can do everything that an FCV-1150 can do if you want. It can transmit at a single tuned frequency in CW (non-CHIRP) mode and drive a 2/3kW capable transducer for excellent deep water performance just like an FCV-1150.

The difference is that it can also do things the FCV-1150 cannot do, primarily since it can operate as a CHIRP sounder using a spread spectrum for better resolution especially at depths less than 500'. The display resolution is also much greater and brighter on the TZT 3 than the FCV-1150 screen.

In real life what is "better" depends also on what you prefer, not just technology. Some people just like having a dedicated fish finder with simple controls. I suspect once you get past the initial learning curve, the TZT 3 with DI-FFAMP will prove more versatile and give you better information for fishing.

 

[Snips]

BlueDragon,
I would agree with Quitsa's comments on the differences between the FCV-1150 and the TZT16/DI-AMP. One additional thing to consider would be your transducer choice. You mentioned using a 2kw transducer which I would agree with for deeper fishing, but you also mentioned fishing for Tuna which for the most part is shallower. Just know the HF side on 2kw is pretty narrow, around 4 degrees at 200Khz. So they are more suited for Thermoclines and detecting layers within the water column. May I suggest looking at a LHW transducer which is 1kw on the HF side but (in my opinion) better choice for showing fish closer to the surface.

Snips

 

[Deep Blue]

BlueDragon,

Also something to keep in mind is Standalone Display verses a Multifuction Display. If you are fishing all the time, a fully dedicated Standalone sounder display has a lot to offer. Standalone Fish Finders have buttons and controls that are more suitable for use in rough seas, running at speed, or use with wet or gloved hands.

However, using a Multifuction Display with a built in internal sounder saves you valuable helm space and offers you the ability to network with other echo sounder modules, like the DI-FFAMP or the DFF3D.

I hope this information is helpful..?
- Deep Blue

 

[BlueDragon]

BlueDragon,
I would agree with Quitsa's comments on the differences between the FCV-1150 and the TZT16/DI-AMP. One additional thing to consider would be your transducer choice. You mentioned using a 2kw transducer which I would agree with for deeper fishing, but you also mentioned fishing for Tuna which for the most part is shallower. Just know the HF side on 2kw is pretty narrow, around 4 degrees at 200Khz. So they are more suited for Thermoclines and detecting layers within the water column. May I suggest looking at a LHW transducer which is 1kw on the HF side but (in my opinion) better choice for showing fish closer to the surface.

Snips

Yes, I am currently using 175HW and 82B-35R in my old boat and would be happy to keep similar configuration. If I switch to TZT3, I may probably change the transducer though.

 

[BlueDragon]

I am wondering if any Furuno guy can give me some advice. Whether TZT3 with chirp is better than FCV1150 or not, assuming similar transducers.
Thanks

 

[YachtyBoy]

Hello Blue Dragon,

Just want to inform you that 2 representatives from Furuno has responded to this thread and provided the information to your inquiry.

YachtyBoy