Furuno 1623 LCd Radar?

[Michael Parker]

Looking to maybe by a small radar and was wondering if anyone had any opions on the furuno 1623 or the 24 mile furuno 1715, any advice would be apreciated

[Here We Go]

I have the 1623 and it works fine for fog and and picking up other boats....birds nope.

[ReelTimeCapt]

I have an older 1621, which is a very basic, reliable unit. The newer 1623 is its predecessor and from looking at the features it is a good entry level unit. The 1621 has good sensitivity and picks up well to about 8 to 16 miles for large targets like boats and ships but does not enough power to pickup birds.

I like the one I have a lot and Furuno Tech Support really stands behind their product.

For an entry level system, it gets the job done and it sure is nice running at night and knowing what's around you as you cross the channel. However, my next unit will be at least a 4kw and possibly higher so that I can possibly pickup more and have a bit more range.

I'm sure other folks may have had different experiences, but for the money I spent, I'm real satisfied.

Best Regards,
Fletcher

[Fin Stoked]

How much are these basic units? I have been thinking about adding one myself and have no clue what the cost is. This may eliminate my continuation if they are more than 1500 complete. Thanks.

[ReelTimeCapt]

About $1250 Retail from Boaters World is what I priced a new one at. However, I took a chance and bought mine used and then sent it to Furuno and has them inspect it and replace the main board. My total cash outlay is was $800. If I had it to do again, I would just buy a brand new one for $1250 or so. However, I can only say the best about Furuno Tech Support. Those guys are awesome and really tweaked mine out.

[Grady23]

I would opt for the more powerful 1715 to get the extra range and slightly better target descrimination. It still won't pick up birds, but it will help you spot storms at a greater range and give you more time to try and plan a way around a storm. You would need to go up to at least a 4K Open arrary (Big long bar) type of unit for picking up birds. Once you get up in that price range, you just as well go for broke and get color at about $4K.
If you get the sea clutter and gain set right on the 1715, you should be able to pick up crab pot markers unless it's real rough.
If you ever get a chance to hear FrankDillenger from Mid-Shore Electronics speak, go and listen. Great guy -- He and his staff are VERY VERY good.

[31footer]

Try this site a 1715 is $1365 I've used them in the past and they have good customer service and prices

Discount Marine and Boat Supplies - Inflatable Sales - Defender

Tim

[Chumlord]

I have the 1623 and I like it alot $1200 is about right. You actually can pick up birds under perfect conditions it will certainly show you buoys boats and T-storms. reliable, economical and easy to install unit. I recommend it!

[gameover]

Been looking at the Furuno myself , try Daves Electronics on line . Usually good prices.
www.brokenlegdave .com

Tim

[Chumlord]

One more thing remember I believe the 1715 and the 1623 both put out 2.2kw same power!!!!