Im going to buy a sb3 pro x bait boat but theres so many fish finder options on the carptechnics site. Im not paying the big bucks for the 750 version as its £1800 but the 640 is £800. Whats the difference between them all. Is the 640 a good option? All i want it for is depth finding and picking up any fish not interested in gps and auti pilot malarky. Its my first bait boat and all the options is doing my head in already.
In reply to Post #1
TF640 is perfectly fine for your requirements. I had it on my old anatec and caught me lots of fish.
Easy to use. Although the screen is pretty basic it shows everything you need to know from water temp, depth, weed, hardness of bottom and yes it even detect fish. It has build in GPS where you can store locations to go back directly to your baited spot when recasting after a fish/baiting etc.
The only real option its missing is autodrive but you could always down the line add the x pilot if really wanted
TF640 is perfectly fine for your requirements. I had it on my old anatec and caught me lots of fish.
Easy to use. Although the screen is pretty basic it shows everything you need to know from water temp, depth, weed, hardness of bottom and yes it even detect fish. It has build in GPS where you can store locations to go back directly to your baited spot when recasting after a fish/baiting etc.
The only real option its missing is autodrive but you could always down the line add the x pilot if really wanted
In reply to Post #2
Are they easy to use as all the functions and how to use them us stressing me out and i havent even bought it yet. Is there a better option just for depth finding as thats all i really want? Someone said lowrance were better just for showing depth and bottom contours but carptecnics dont do lowrance.
Are they easy to use as all the functions and how to use them us stressing me out and i havent even bought it yet. Is there a better option just for depth finding as thats all i really want? Someone said lowrance were better just for showing depth and bottom contours but carptecnics dont do lowrance.
Or my other option is get a gowi osprey as its all built into the handset
In reply to Post #3
Its easy to use pretty basic the gps is crap on the 640 save your money .I have had 3 due to faults just used it for depth in the end as the gps was not very accurate and mostly miles off and all 3 units were the same much better using line of sight and sticks .Fishfinder is no better than other cheaper ones and if you can stretch to it the raymarine is in another ball park its brilliant it works better in shallower water and you can even identify the types of weed .It doesnt show up fish that are not there like the tolson
Its easy to use pretty basic the gps is crap on the 640 save your money .I have had 3 due to faults just used it for depth in the end as the gps was not very accurate and mostly miles off and all 3 units were the same much better using line of sight and sticks .Fishfinder is no better than other cheaper ones and if you can stretch to it the raymarine is in another ball park its brilliant it works better in shallower water and you can even identify the types of weed .It doesnt show up fish that are not there like the tolson
In reply to Post #5
I dont think there is an option of the ray marine on cartechnics website its all tolsons
I dont think there is an option of the ray marine on cartechnics website its all tolsons
Carplounge do the raymarine but the price really jumps up even with 50% off this wk its still 3k
In reply to Post #1
Get a 740 and be done with it! 640 has everything apart from autopilot - 740 has Decent sonar / excellent GPS / integrated autopilot / consistent connectivity. Carptechnics will fit Raymarine and the SP Autopilot (Puck) on request. TBF I didnt think I needed GPS/Autopilot; however since owning it you'll wish you'd never been without it!
Whatever you do SB3 is an excellent choice - more than happy with mine - best boat I've ever owned
Get a 740 and be done with it! 640 has everything apart from autopilot - 740 has Decent sonar / excellent GPS / integrated autopilot / consistent connectivity. Carptechnics will fit Raymarine and the SP Autopilot (Puck) on request. TBF I didnt think I needed GPS/Autopilot; however since owning it you'll wish you'd never been without it!
Whatever you do SB3 is an excellent choice - more than happy with mine - best boat I've ever owned
In reply to Post #4
If its your first boat you will not be disappointed with the Gowi, it really is the simplest to use, and I echo the comment made about the auto pilot, once you have used it you will never want to be without it. The safeguard of knowing that if you loose connection or battery levels drop, the boat will return to "home" is worth the cost by itself.
If its your first boat you will not be disappointed with the Gowi, it really is the simplest to use, and I echo the comment made about the auto pilot, once you have used it you will never want to be without it. The safeguard of knowing that if you loose connection or battery levels drop, the boat will return to "home" is worth the cost by itself.
In reply to Post #8
Is the raymarine better?
Is the raymarine better?
In reply to Post #9
Gowi looks good but its all made in china and puts me off a bit. Carptechnics have been going years and im still yet to find a bad review of the sb3
Gowi looks good but its all made in china and puts me off a bit. Carptechnics have been going years and im still yet to find a bad review of the sb3
In reply to Post #10
Raymarine is far superior than anything else. I bought a rt4 v4 and could never go back. The detail displayed is next level i can even see my rig dropping in the water 😂
Raymarine is far superior than anything else. I bought a rt4 v4 and could never go back. The detail displayed is next level i can even see my rig dropping in the water 😂
The sb3 with carry bag and tolson 740 is £2900 but i can get an rt4 with raymarine, carry bag and loads of extras for £2595 as they have 50% off at the min. Should be £5200. I might as well get the rt4 as offer ends this wk.
In reply to Post #1
Had this dilemma myself. The difference between the 600 and 700 series is the 700 models come with integrated autopilot and fish finder in a single unit.
I think it's a lot of dough to splash out that when you could fit a deeper chirp and just go for the separate autopilot unit and save a lot of money.
I've been given a name of a chap that flogs second hand 700 models for half the price so that's a possibility.
I will definitely be fitting the winch cam next year but I'm also mulling over my options.
Had this dilemma myself. The difference between the 600 and 700 series is the 700 models come with integrated autopilot and fish finder in a single unit.
I think it's a lot of dough to splash out that when you could fit a deeper chirp and just go for the separate autopilot unit and save a lot of money.
I've been given a name of a chap that flogs second hand 700 models for half the price so that's a possibility.
I will definitely be fitting the winch cam next year but I'm also mulling over my options.
In reply to Post #14
Do you think the rt4 package is the better deal with the 50% off?
Do you think the rt4 package is the better deal with the 50% off?
In reply to Post #15
Rt4 is a really good boat. Does that price include the tablet? If not leave £150 aside for a Samsung a8 tablet.
Looks daunting but once setup easiest boat you could ever use. Use remote control to search for spots on raymarine and 1 touch save them on aerial map of lake. Then judt press the button and tell the boat what to do will drive to location drop bait and come back home.
Its an epic bit of kit. The boat comes with 3 year warranty only downside is if something goes wrong boat had to go to Germany for repairs. That being said their Essex store will be up and running come April which will make warranty repairs a lot easier
Rt4 is a really good boat. Does that price include the tablet? If not leave £150 aside for a Samsung a8 tablet.
Looks daunting but once setup easiest boat you could ever use. Use remote control to search for spots on raymarine and 1 touch save them on aerial map of lake. Then judt press the button and tell the boat what to do will drive to location drop bait and come back home.
Its an epic bit of kit. The boat comes with 3 year warranty only downside is if something goes wrong boat had to go to Germany for repairs. That being said their Essex store will be up and running come April which will make warranty repairs a lot easier
In reply to Post #16
Not sure about a tablet, will have a look
Not sure about a tablet, will have a look
In reply to Post #1
My old man went for a 740 in a brand new Xboat. First time with it out in France the screen froze multiple times. Could of been a lemon but when doing a bit of research it's a common problem. He ordered a bespoke boat with a Raymarine after that and when talking to the guys down there they have stopped fitting Toslon cos of the issues. Take from that what you will.
My old man went for a 740 in a brand new Xboat. First time with it out in France the screen froze multiple times. Could of been a lemon but when doing a bit of research it's a common problem. He ordered a bespoke boat with a Raymarine after that and when talking to the guys down there they have stopped fitting Toslon cos of the issues. Take from that what you will.
In reply to Post #15
The RT4 is a much bigger boat than the SB3. Personally, I love the compactness and manoeuvrability of the SB3, although I have never owned the RT4 its undoubtedly a quality boat, just a bit on the big side for me. I don't think I'll ever need to think about buying another boat after the SB3 its just perfect for me. The other thing is, Carptechnics will fit a dragonfly system to your SB3 if you want to go that route.
The more that I think about it, I'm really tempted to stick with my chirp+ and just go with the winch cam and separate auto pilot.
The RT4 is a much bigger boat than the SB3. Personally, I love the compactness and manoeuvrability of the SB3, although I have never owned the RT4 its undoubtedly a quality boat, just a bit on the big side for me. I don't think I'll ever need to think about buying another boat after the SB3 its just perfect for me. The other thing is, Carptechnics will fit a dragonfly system to your SB3 if you want to go that route.
The more that I think about it, I'm really tempted to stick with my chirp+ and just go with the winch cam and separate auto pilot.
In reply to Post #19
Cheers. How do you attach your chirp?
Cheers. How do you attach your chirp?
In reply to Post #20
I attach mine to the front as shown here. I tried fitting it at the back and it interfered with the steering but no such problem at the front.
I attach mine to the front as shown here. I tried fitting it at the back and it interfered with the steering but no such problem at the front.
In reply to Post #21
That looks great 👍🏻 Where did you get the part that attaches to the boat that holds the chirp?
That looks great 👍🏻 Where did you get the part that attaches to the boat that holds the chirp?
Ordering an sb3 pro x on monday 👍🏻
In reply to Post #22
It was just off ebay. It was one that could be manipulated and twisted to the shape you want. If you want I'll dig the link out.
The other thing about the chirp that I like is that I can take it off there and just drop it on a dedicated rod I use on waters that don't allow BB.
You might need a wifi extender also if you're going 50 meters plus with the chirp and there's a few about you can choose from.
It was just off ebay. It was one that could be manipulated and twisted to the shape you want. If you want I'll dig the link out.
The other thing about the chirp that I like is that I can take it off there and just drop it on a dedicated rod I use on waters that don't allow BB.
You might need a wifi extender also if you're going 50 meters plus with the chirp and there's a few about you can choose from.
In reply to Post #24
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/185226790569
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/185226790569
In reply to Post #25
Great, cheers 👍🏻
Great, cheers 👍🏻
In reply to Post #23
You've made the right decision. I too was tempted by ze Germans on the offer they had at the time - however read ALL the reviews and you'll find way more negative press on RT4s than you will on SB3's . . . and 'reliability' for boats when you are 200yds out in a cross wind IS the most important purchase factor IMO - that and the fact that the leadtimes and costs to order / service / fix are significantly longer for an RT4 and you may be 'without' your boat longer than the time you get to usefully use it.
SB3s are the perfect size for the majority of UK waters that actually allow boats - they're stable, reliable and a doddle to use. Raymarine is 100% a more accurate sonar than the one on the TF740/50 and tbf the Deeper Chirp+ is also a narrower beam and therefore more 'accurate' however in the bigger scheme of things (I don't really believe nor see the relevance in watching my rig drop on sonar - sounds like bs to me) it doesn't find the fish or spots for you - you'll need to make those decisions yourself whatever system you choose and however crisp the return on the weedbed at 92yds is on the screen you'll still find the same weedbed on your Toslon! Raymarine can also be less stable at range from what I understand and can cut out / lose signal more frequently; unlike the Toslons that once locked onto a group of satellites rarely, if ever lose connection!
You've made the right decision. I too was tempted by ze Germans on the offer they had at the time - however read ALL the reviews and you'll find way more negative press on RT4s than you will on SB3's . . . and 'reliability' for boats when you are 200yds out in a cross wind IS the most important purchase factor IMO - that and the fact that the leadtimes and costs to order / service / fix are significantly longer for an RT4 and you may be 'without' your boat longer than the time you get to usefully use it.
SB3s are the perfect size for the majority of UK waters that actually allow boats - they're stable, reliable and a doddle to use. Raymarine is 100% a more accurate sonar than the one on the TF740/50 and tbf the Deeper Chirp+ is also a narrower beam and therefore more 'accurate' however in the bigger scheme of things (I don't really believe nor see the relevance in watching my rig drop on sonar - sounds like bs to me) it doesn't find the fish or spots for you - you'll need to make those decisions yourself whatever system you choose and however crisp the return on the weedbed at 92yds is on the screen you'll still find the same weedbed on your Toslon! Raymarine can also be less stable at range from what I understand and can cut out / lose signal more frequently; unlike the Toslons that once locked onto a group of satellites rarely, if ever lose connection!
In reply to Post #26
I have just heard that Jules and Steve have parted company and that Carptechnics may be no longer !
I hope this is not the case.
I have just heard that Jules and Steve have parted company and that Carptechnics may be no longer !
I hope this is not the case.
In reply to Post #28
Just browsing Facebook and there is a post on there now on the Carptechnics group page with folk showing concern about the company and future servicing etc.
Just browsing Facebook and there is a post on there now on the Carptechnics group page with folk showing concern about the company and future servicing etc.
In reply to Post #29
I was just about to order a sb3, might hang on a bit.
I was just about to order a sb3, might hang on a bit.
In reply to Post #29
I was just about to order a sb3, might hang on a bit.
I was just about to order a sb3, might hang on a bit.
In reply to Post #28
Think Jules is having a break / semi retired . . .being honest I'm also a little concerned as mine is due a service (works tip top but part of warranty retention) and Steve lives in France (which is a long way to send a boat but then still closer than Germany!)
Think Jules is having a break / semi retired . . .being honest I'm also a little concerned as mine is due a service (works tip top but part of warranty retention) and Steve lives in France (which is a long way to send a boat but then still closer than Germany!)
In reply to Post #32
Just received this email from Steve before, so still sounds like things will be ok.
Evening Stuart,
We've got it covered in the uk, or in France it depends on what you require done, if it's to myself in France you simply drop-off or send to a uk address which ever is most the convenient for you, and your boat is returned in the same way (I've been operating from France for the last 20yrs manufacturing upgrading and repairing Baitboats ) if it's in the uk it's Stuart in Devon or Jules in Somerset for repair work, servicing and upgrades.
I will have your proforma invoice send this evening to you.
Regards Steve.
Just received this email from Steve before, so still sounds like things will be ok.
Evening Stuart,
We've got it covered in the uk, or in France it depends on what you require done, if it's to myself in France you simply drop-off or send to a uk address which ever is most the convenient for you, and your boat is returned in the same way (I've been operating from France for the last 20yrs manufacturing upgrading and repairing Baitboats ) if it's in the uk it's Stuart in Devon or Jules in Somerset for repair work, servicing and upgrades.
I will have your proforma invoice send this evening to you.
Regards Steve.
In reply to Post #32
How often should they be serviced and whats the cost for a service?
How often should they be serviced and whats the cost for a service?
In reply to Post #34
Just read more on FB and it would appear that any servicing or issues will have to take place in France where Steve now resides or with someone called Stuart in the UK.
To keep your 4 year warranty valid on a SB3 you have to have it serviced every year.
Beyond me why as most parts are not serviceable on a baitboat.
No idea on cost of service.
I would be looking at UKBB PD33.
Just read more on FB and it would appear that any servicing or issues will have to take place in France where Steve now resides or with someone called Stuart in the UK.
To keep your 4 year warranty valid on a SB3 you have to have it serviced every year.
Beyond me why as most parts are not serviceable on a baitboat.
No idea on cost of service.
I would be looking at UKBB PD33.
In reply to Post #33
Do they sell the SB3 from France, as i live in Belgium 🇧🇪, and since brexit, import from the UK 🇬🇧 is a reel pain with customs & import.
Do they sell the SB3 from France, as i live in Belgium 🇧🇪, and since brexit, import from the UK 🇬🇧 is a reel pain with customs & import.
In reply to Post #35
Every year is a bit over the top, its not a car. Even more so when it will only be used a handfull of times over the year.
Every year is a bit over the top, its not a car. Even more so when it will only be used a handfull of times over the year.
In reply to Post #33
I've just had a similar email from Steve - which tbf gives me confidence.
Off the record he's pretty much admitted the servicing schedule is a little superfluous (and like all warranties, potentially a waste of £) as most of the boats are rarely in bad shape half the time and if you look after your boat (re-charge regularly / test all functions sporadically when not in use etc / store in a stable environment etc) you could alternatively negate the service schedule and save the cash over 4yrs and then use it to cover parts in the event of an 'actual' problem . . .I think Steve Spurgeon has owned his Mk whatever SB3 for a over a decade problem free . . .
Talking to others the 'only' fixed cost with with these boats is that they are silicone sealed units (as are RT4s) and therefore there is a time and skill in prizing them open / checking them out / testing and then re-sealing . . . I for one will be keeping and cherishing mine!
I've just had a similar email from Steve - which tbf gives me confidence.
Off the record he's pretty much admitted the servicing schedule is a little superfluous (and like all warranties, potentially a waste of £) as most of the boats are rarely in bad shape half the time and if you look after your boat (re-charge regularly / test all functions sporadically when not in use etc / store in a stable environment etc) you could alternatively negate the service schedule and save the cash over 4yrs and then use it to cover parts in the event of an 'actual' problem . . .I think Steve Spurgeon has owned his Mk whatever SB3 for a over a decade problem free . . .
Talking to others the 'only' fixed cost with with these boats is that they are silicone sealed units (as are RT4s) and therefore there is a time and skill in prizing them open / checking them out / testing and then re-sealing . . . I for one will be keeping and cherishing mine!
In reply to Post #38
Its all a bit up in the air. As on the carptechnics fb group some has spoke to jules and said he is definitely not servicing boats anymore and has nothing to do with them now so not sure what is going on. Someone isnt telling the truth which isnt very good for me as im about to transfer steve over £1300.
Its all a bit up in the air. As on the carptechnics fb group some has spoke to jules and said he is definitely not servicing boats anymore and has nothing to do with them now so not sure what is going on. Someone isnt telling the truth which isnt very good for me as im about to transfer steve over £1300.
In reply to Post #39
I personally wouldn't worry - the FB group seems to be a bit of a gossip pit . . .Jules is not the only Carptechnics employee that fixes / services boats in the UK so they can still be sent to a UK address (Devon)
As stated these boats have a track record for reliability anyway and compared to others including RT4s are solid. You could of course save your cash and go for a Boatman Actor - good luck with that!
I personally wouldn't worry - the FB group seems to be a bit of a gossip pit . . .Jules is not the only Carptechnics employee that fixes / services boats in the UK so they can still be sent to a UK address (Devon)
As stated these boats have a track record for reliability anyway and compared to others including RT4s are solid. You could of course save your cash and go for a Boatman Actor - good luck with that!
In reply to Post #40
Lol i like how you keep mentioning rt4 as unreliable by reading some sources of boats with faults. Out of curiosity how many SB3's do you reckon has sold over the years compared to RT4's?
If its within a 10% margin I would be surprised. Surely if you sell more there is a bigger chance the odd one can create a fault over time?
I can promise you 99% of people(inc myself) has problem free RT4s that don't spam the net telling everyone they don't have a problem
Also what's the point of a warranty if you are out of pocket/time etc to get boat serviced every year?
Lol i like how you keep mentioning rt4 as unreliable by reading some sources of boats with faults. Out of curiosity how many SB3's do you reckon has sold over the years compared to RT4's?
If its within a 10% margin I would be surprised. Surely if you sell more there is a bigger chance the odd one can create a fault over time?
I can promise you 99% of people(inc myself) has problem free RT4s that don't spam the net telling everyone they don't have a problem
Also what's the point of a warranty if you are out of pocket/time etc to get boat serviced every year?
In reply to Post #40
I have my heart set on an sb3 but the gossip mill on fb which i see has now all been removed gave me second thoughts and the deals on the all in packages for the rt4 is quite tempting with the raymarine and 50% off at the min. If it was a couple of hundred quid it wouldnt really bother me but when its nearly 1500 quid its a bit of a worry.
I have my heart set on an sb3 but the gossip mill on fb which i see has now all been removed gave me second thoughts and the deals on the all in packages for the rt4 is quite tempting with the raymarine and 50% off at the min. If it was a couple of hundred quid it wouldnt really bother me but when its nearly 1500 quid its a bit of a worry.
In reply to Post #41
You pay your money you make your choice - totally agree I'm sure the majority of RT4s are solid - they are impressive bits of kit! Everyone needs to make their own purchase decisions however I would say that compared to SB3's RT4s are
1 - More expensive
2 - Larger and heavier
3 - More complex in terms of motors / electrics
4 - More complex in terms of set-up / ease of use
5 - Made and serviced in Germany (which is arguably a good thing in terms of mechanics / perhaps not so much in terms of logistics)
This does not mean they are an inferior product - arguably quite the opposite - however depends on what you want / how and when you are going to use it etc
I chose SB3 over RT4 and am happy with my decision!
You pay your money you make your choice - totally agree I'm sure the majority of RT4s are solid - they are impressive bits of kit! Everyone needs to make their own purchase decisions however I would say that compared to SB3's RT4s are
1 - More expensive
2 - Larger and heavier
3 - More complex in terms of motors / electrics
4 - More complex in terms of set-up / ease of use
5 - Made and serviced in Germany (which is arguably a good thing in terms of mechanics / perhaps not so much in terms of logistics)
This does not mean they are an inferior product - arguably quite the opposite - however depends on what you want / how and when you are going to use it etc
I chose SB3 over RT4 and am happy with my decision!
In reply to Post #43
Im sure i read some where that carplounge were opening a place in this country in essex which would be very handy. I still dont understand how a little plastic boat can cost more than the jetski i used to have mind. Carp tax at the highest level.
Im sure i read some where that carplounge were opening a place in this country in essex which would be very handy. I still dont understand how a little plastic boat can cost more than the jetski i used to have mind. Carp tax at the highest level.
In reply to Post #43
No doubt you are happy with the SB3 otherwise doubt you would of given it such stellar review which is great for you. I was just curious as you kept mentioning the boat is unreliable and the raymarine cuts out at range which is strange as had mine out over 300m (more line than what my reel holds lol) testing it on the small stubby aerial and worked flawlessly (I must not search the internet enough to find these flaws).
What I would say though on your points.
A SB3 pro with toslon TF750 is £3200 and with current deals can get the RT4 for cheaper even if you upgrade to the long lasting smart batteries and chuck some luggage or bait spiral in the deal (Annoying as I paid a lot more).
It certainly is a bigger boat cant compare weight as not used the SB3 but its only heavy with 5kg of bait in it lol.
Certainly is more complex I agree but with that comes its own benefits from bait spirals to incorporate access points to add cameras etc later, managing cruising speed for drop offs to dimming lights etc etc. IMO for a bait boat its a bit OTT.
Ease of use as well couldnt be more simpler.The v3 was terrible where the v4 is touch and go, couldnt make it simpler if you tried and less buttons than using remote and a toslon (Not to mention the difference in gps output compared to raymarine which I am allowed to compare as owned a Anatec with Toslon TF640)
As for servicing from April next year the Essex shop will be fully open and deal with all warranty related matters. The warranty also does not have clauses for yearly services.
Each to their own just dont understand how people compare things online without having used/own both
No doubt you are happy with the SB3 otherwise doubt you would of given it such stellar review which is great for you. I was just curious as you kept mentioning the boat is unreliable and the raymarine cuts out at range which is strange as had mine out over 300m (more line than what my reel holds lol) testing it on the small stubby aerial and worked flawlessly (I must not search the internet enough to find these flaws).
What I would say though on your points.
A SB3 pro with toslon TF750 is £3200 and with current deals can get the RT4 for cheaper even if you upgrade to the long lasting smart batteries and chuck some luggage or bait spiral in the deal (Annoying as I paid a lot more).
It certainly is a bigger boat cant compare weight as not used the SB3 but its only heavy with 5kg of bait in it lol.
Certainly is more complex I agree but with that comes its own benefits from bait spirals to incorporate access points to add cameras etc later, managing cruising speed for drop offs to dimming lights etc etc. IMO for a bait boat its a bit OTT.
Ease of use as well couldnt be more simpler.The v3 was terrible where the v4 is touch and go, couldnt make it simpler if you tried and less buttons than using remote and a toslon (Not to mention the difference in gps output compared to raymarine which I am allowed to compare as owned a Anatec with Toslon TF640)
As for servicing from April next year the Essex shop will be fully open and deal with all warranty related matters. The warranty also does not have clauses for yearly services.
Each to their own just dont understand how people compare things online without having used/own both
In reply to Post #45
Im kind of swaying to the rt4 now with the offer on which is a bit daft really as all i wanted was a boat with no fish finder when i started looking. Theres so many upgrades it gives you in the options even via the deal at the minute. What options are worth it? The only one i chose so far was brushless motors but therers so many other things to pick and the price really starts mounting up. Not interested in bait spirals or cameras but would you recommend any other upgrades?
Im kind of swaying to the rt4 now with the offer on which is a bit daft really as all i wanted was a boat with no fish finder when i started looking. Theres so many upgrades it gives you in the options even via the deal at the minute. What options are worth it? The only one i chose so far was brushless motors but therers so many other things to pick and the price really starts mounting up. Not interested in bait spirals or cameras but would you recommend any other upgrades?
In reply to Post #46
I also have the brushless motors. They are a lot louder than the soft motors keep that in mind but they will last a lot longer and are a lot faster. I have my cruise speed at 50% mostly to keep the db levels down and only really use full power in extreme wind or massive lakes. (you can set this on controller and on the tablet). I would say though majority of people seem to like the brushed low noise motors.
Dont get the tablet through them as you can get it cheap as chips on ebay/amazon and just download the app yourself. I am happy to guide you through the setting up process it really is simple and once used once you will get the hang of it. I have never done the mapping function myself as dont see the point. Use the raymarine when i search for multiple spots, save positions on tablet and thats the end. Then use autopilot function rest of trip on tablet.
For me the smart batteries is a must. They are simpler to charge, use and they last forever. I went with 2 x 15mah batteries (Not cheap but what i wanted).
Dont bother with bait spirals. I have a left hardly use it. Bit of a gimmick or if you really want to bait a massive area. Some love it for me not so much.
I think their deals now even include some fox luggage. (only the basic black luggage but its decent non the less and will keep your boat safe)
*One thing to add I bought their Stainless boat stand which is fantastic. Extremely solid and helps with putting rig/bait in boat raised from ground. Obviously also protects the boat and aid with lifting if you fill the thing to the brim with bait. None essential but nice to have
There is lots of extras like zig droppers, pva droppers etc etc. You will have to decide if you want these. I have the zig dropper which works fine but again not used much. Nice thing is you can always buy these on a later date if wanted.
I also have the brushless motors. They are a lot louder than the soft motors keep that in mind but they will last a lot longer and are a lot faster. I have my cruise speed at 50% mostly to keep the db levels down and only really use full power in extreme wind or massive lakes. (you can set this on controller and on the tablet). I would say though majority of people seem to like the brushed low noise motors.
Dont get the tablet through them as you can get it cheap as chips on ebay/amazon and just download the app yourself. I am happy to guide you through the setting up process it really is simple and once used once you will get the hang of it. I have never done the mapping function myself as dont see the point. Use the raymarine when i search for multiple spots, save positions on tablet and thats the end. Then use autopilot function rest of trip on tablet.
For me the smart batteries is a must. They are simpler to charge, use and they last forever. I went with 2 x 15mah batteries (Not cheap but what i wanted).
Dont bother with bait spirals. I have a left hardly use it. Bit of a gimmick or if you really want to bait a massive area. Some love it for me not so much.
I think their deals now even include some fox luggage. (only the basic black luggage but its decent non the less and will keep your boat safe)
*One thing to add I bought their Stainless boat stand which is fantastic. Extremely solid and helps with putting rig/bait in boat raised from ground. Obviously also protects the boat and aid with lifting if you fill the thing to the brim with bait. None essential but nice to have
There is lots of extras like zig droppers, pva droppers etc etc. You will have to decide if you want these. I have the zig dropper which works fine but again not used much. Nice thing is you can always buy these on a later date if wanted.
In reply to Post #47
Cheers 👍🏻 its my first boat and theres so many different option to add and its got me totally confused with what i need. I keep going on the website and adding different options but the price starts getting out of control. Not sure how long the offer is on for either. Are the brushless motors more reliable and is the only advantage the extra speed of the boat?
Cheers 👍🏻 its my first boat and theres so many different option to add and its got me totally confused with what i need. I keep going on the website and adding different options but the price starts getting out of control. Not sure how long the offer is on for either. Are the brushless motors more reliable and is the only advantage the extra speed of the boat?
In reply to Post #48
Yeah brushless motors are more reliable. As mentioned it is considerably louder though. But the benefits are speed and obviously reliability. I went with brushless but a lot of people prefer the brushed motors as its fast enough for UK waters for sure and makes no sound whatsoever
Price can mount up quickly lol. At the end of the day comes down to what you can afford. I just didnt want to buy something and think damn I wish I added this etc. All the additional plug and play things I would say you can always get later on if wanted. But defo get smart batteries even if 10ah. The boat runs on both and you will easily get 3 to 4 days plus on just one set of use.
At the end of the day it is a lot of money and there are many alternative good cheaper boat solutions like a waverunner etc. All depends how much you going to use it and how much toys you want it to come with.
Yeah brushless motors are more reliable. As mentioned it is considerably louder though. But the benefits are speed and obviously reliability. I went with brushless but a lot of people prefer the brushed motors as its fast enough for UK waters for sure and makes no sound whatsoever
Price can mount up quickly lol. At the end of the day comes down to what you can afford. I just didnt want to buy something and think damn I wish I added this etc. All the additional plug and play things I would say you can always get later on if wanted. But defo get smart batteries even if 10ah. The boat runs on both and you will easily get 3 to 4 days plus on just one set of use.
At the end of the day it is a lot of money and there are many alternative good cheaper boat solutions like a waverunner etc. All depends how much you going to use it and how much toys you want it to come with.
In reply to Post #49
Just watched a video on the smart batteries and they look brilliant. Just added a few things and im up to £3700. I have a very understanding wife when it comes to buying fishing tackle but think that amount on a toy boat aa she calls it might have her slightly annoyed 😀 theres quite a few options of 15 ma batteries.
Just watched a video on the smart batteries and they look brilliant. Just added a few things and im up to £3700. I have a very understanding wife when it comes to buying fishing tackle but think that amount on a toy boat aa she calls it might have her slightly annoyed 😀 theres quite a few options of 15 ma batteries.
In reply to Post #50
Yeah they are. No cables, touch button shows how much power is left. Last a lot longer and extremely easy to charge etc compared to their normal batteries which is a pain and have to trickle charge it to not die when not in use.
That was literally the first option I chose when I specced mine lol
Yeah they are. No cables, touch button shows how much power is left. Last a lot longer and extremely easy to charge etc compared to their normal batteries which is a pain and have to trickle charge it to not die when not in use.
That was literally the first option I chose when I specced mine lol
In reply to Post #51
Shame you cant just buy the boat with smart batteries.
Shame you cant just buy the boat with smart batteries.
In reply to Post #52
Lol in all honesty if you just wanted a boat with no toys there are many good options available for the fraction of the cost. Its all the extras that makes the rt4 for me. If not I would of kept my anatac Catamaran which was fantastic quality boat. But wanted the bells and whistles only reason I did the swap
I had a look on carplounge and see that deal If you do the matt carbon(best colour imo) with whatever colour stickers and led (mine all purple lol), low noise motors and smart batteries comes to £2780. That also include their vault luggage. That really is a great deal to be fair but also would require a tablet (they use to sell the a8 set up ready to go for £299 see its now £199 which isnt too far off amazon prices)
Lol in all honesty if you just wanted a boat with no toys there are many good options available for the fraction of the cost. Its all the extras that makes the rt4 for me. If not I would of kept my anatac Catamaran which was fantastic quality boat. But wanted the bells and whistles only reason I did the swap
I had a look on carplounge and see that deal If you do the matt carbon(best colour imo) with whatever colour stickers and led (mine all purple lol), low noise motors and smart batteries comes to £2780. That also include their vault luggage. That really is a great deal to be fair but also would require a tablet (they use to sell the a8 set up ready to go for £299 see its now £199 which isnt too far off amazon prices)
In reply to Post #52
Double post for some reason
Double post for some reason
In reply to Post #53
The anatec was my first choice when i started looking but didnt realise how big it actually was. I could of sat in it 😀 Do you need to but the charger for the batteries as well or does that come with the battery set. Which 15ma batteries did u get?
The anatec was my first choice when i started looking but didnt realise how big it actually was. I could of sat in it 😀 Do you need to but the charger for the batteries as well or does that come with the battery set. Which 15ma batteries did u get?
In reply to Post #55
it comes with a charger to do 1 battery at a time. you can also buy the dock which will charge 4 at a time but i didnt buy that myself.
it comes with a charger to do 1 battery at a time. you can also buy the dock which will charge 4 at a time but i didnt buy that myself.
In reply to Post #45
The RT4/Hamidi Fanboy in you has come out of the closet lol . . .didn't the last attempt at a UK Carplounge shop burn down? Must have been an irate essex v3 owner!!
No I've never owned an RT4 but have seen plenty on the bank and have had a 'go' with one - totally agree they are beautiful bits of kit but I'm sorry the amount of neg press the V3 had (which was the latest variant at the time I was looking at them) and the bills people were swallowing was enough to put me off. Have YOU ever actually used an SB3?
I've no doubt the latest RT4 version is a beast - however the SB3 offers all the add ons (with the exception of a spiral) you've mentioned without the blatant upsell and silly pricing; Raymarine is great but its not the be all - its a glorified Deeper Chirp with a better wifi connection; think I'll stick with the Toslons bullet proof reliability and operational simplicity (albeit less sexy graphics) . . .that and less bits of clutter to lump around
As I said you pay your money and make your choice - I'm sure you'll be 'upgrading' to the RT4 v5 when its out in the new year lol . . . .
The RT4/Hamidi Fanboy in you has come out of the closet lol . . .didn't the last attempt at a UK Carplounge shop burn down? Must have been an irate essex v3 owner!!
No I've never owned an RT4 but have seen plenty on the bank and have had a 'go' with one - totally agree they are beautiful bits of kit but I'm sorry the amount of neg press the V3 had (which was the latest variant at the time I was looking at them) and the bills people were swallowing was enough to put me off. Have YOU ever actually used an SB3?
I've no doubt the latest RT4 version is a beast - however the SB3 offers all the add ons (with the exception of a spiral) you've mentioned without the blatant upsell and silly pricing; Raymarine is great but its not the be all - its a glorified Deeper Chirp with a better wifi connection; think I'll stick with the Toslons bullet proof reliability and operational simplicity (albeit less sexy graphics) . . .that and less bits of clutter to lump around
As I said you pay your money and make your choice - I'm sure you'll be 'upgrading' to the RT4 v5 when its out in the new year lol . . . .
In reply to Post #56
Ah the dock was the one i seen so that will save some money. Which 15ma batteries did you get as im sure there is a 20, 30 or 60 option in the 15ma batteries. Think its a toss up between the matt carbon and gloss carbon.
Ah the dock was the one i seen so that will save some money. Which 15ma batteries did you get as im sure there is a 20, 30 or 60 option in the 15ma batteries. Think its a toss up between the matt carbon and gloss carbon.
In reply to Post #57
I would love the sb3 pro x as its perfect for what i want a boat to do but what ive just heard has put me off a bit. I cant see why steve would lie to me mind bit i dont know any of them personally.
I would love the sb3 pro x as its perfect for what i want a boat to do but what ive just heard has put me off a bit. I cant see why steve would lie to me mind bit i dont know any of them personally.
In reply to Post #57
If you read my comment you will see I actually mentioned I cant comment on the SB3 as I have never owned or used one. I only comment on things I know or own.
If the V5 tickles my fancy then yes I will buy it. Work hard for my money will splash it as I see fit thanks. As for the fanboy part, if you go read Stuarts original baitboat topic from a while back you will actually see I mentioned the Catamaran is a better quality boat but the RT4 has more gadgets. Again I see myself fit to make this judgement as owned both.
Im glad your SB3 is working out for you
PS i also mentioned the V3 is a dog. I actually have one sitting in my garage perfectly fine just cant be bothered to sell it. Use it as a spare when the v4 goes wrong. From what I have gathered from your expert opinion its not if but when
If you read my comment you will see I actually mentioned I cant comment on the SB3 as I have never owned or used one. I only comment on things I know or own.
If the V5 tickles my fancy then yes I will buy it. Work hard for my money will splash it as I see fit thanks. As for the fanboy part, if you go read Stuarts original baitboat topic from a while back you will actually see I mentioned the Catamaran is a better quality boat but the RT4 has more gadgets. Again I see myself fit to make this judgement as owned both.
Im glad your SB3 is working out for you
PS i also mentioned the V3 is a dog. I actually have one sitting in my garage perfectly fine just cant be bothered to sell it. Use it as a spare when the v4 goes wrong. From what I have gathered from your expert opinion its not if but when
In reply to Post #58
Stuart,
I went with just 2 x 15ah batteries, 30ah in total plenty for a long trip without charging.(My mate just has the standard 10ah batteries and he did a 7 day trip in france having to only charge one battery in that time) Either option is good again depends how much you want to spend as can always buy more batteries at a later date. I have a v3 in gloss silverline and a v4 in matt black trim. If you send me your email will show you comparison, the matt blackline imo looks a lot better. I also have their standard luggage and the fox backpack if you need any info to compare them even though you will get the vault with that deal which is a big f off case i never got or wanted lol
Stuart,
I went with just 2 x 15ah batteries, 30ah in total plenty for a long trip without charging.(My mate just has the standard 10ah batteries and he did a 7 day trip in france having to only charge one battery in that time) Either option is good again depends how much you want to spend as can always buy more batteries at a later date. I have a v3 in gloss silverline and a v4 in matt black trim. If you send me your email will show you comparison, the matt blackline imo looks a lot better. I also have their standard luggage and the fox backpack if you need any info to compare them even though you will get the vault with that deal which is a big f off case i never got or wanted lol
In reply to Post #61
Cheers mate. Its me being thick with the batteries. Ive just realised the 30,45 and 60 are the total amount of batteries you get added together ie 3 batteries is 45 and 4 is 60 in total 😀 nothing to do with the size. I will send you a pm with my email mate. Cheers.
Cheers mate. Its me being thick with the batteries. Ive just realised the 30,45 and 60 are the total amount of batteries you get added together ie 3 batteries is 45 and 4 is 60 in total 😀 nothing to do with the size. I will send you a pm with my email mate. Cheers.
In reply to Post #50
Blimey you could afford a months gas central heating for that!
Jokes aside, if Steve Lloyd is saying don't worry its business as usual I'd crack on with your original plan. There's hundreds if not thousands of SB3's and SB4's here and in the EU that provides a ready made business for Carptechnics so one way or another they will cater to it.
My SB3 will be going across to Steve next year for a minimum winch cam and auto pilot fitting. It's a fantastic boat and if Steve has one that you can buy then if you don't someone else will.
Just my thoughts on it.
Blimey you could afford a months gas central heating for that!
Jokes aside, if Steve Lloyd is saying don't worry its business as usual I'd crack on with your original plan. There's hundreds if not thousands of SB3's and SB4's here and in the EU that provides a ready made business for Carptechnics so one way or another they will cater to it.
My SB3 will be going across to Steve next year for a minimum winch cam and auto pilot fitting. It's a fantastic boat and if Steve has one that you can buy then if you don't someone else will.
Just my thoughts on it.
In reply to Post #63
Fact is - there's more 'readily available' bad press and disappointed RT4 owners than there are SB3 owners - and I think I'm right in stating that the SB3 has been on the market for a longer time; do the maths / make your own mind up . . .
Fact is - there's more 'readily available' bad press and disappointed RT4 owners than there are SB3 owners - and I think I'm right in stating that the SB3 has been on the market for a longer time; do the maths / make your own mind up . . .
In reply to Post #57
While I don't want to get in the way of two grown men arguing over toy boats
Have you used a Raymarine echo? The ‘better graphics' that you comment on is far more information and detail being picked up and displayed for you to use. How you interpret that data is up to you, but a combination of the raw sonar and Downvision is a little more powerful than a Deeper. You are showing a lack of understanding here, both use Chirp technology, but the spec is very different.
As for reliability, let's not forget that Raymarine are made for actual boats rather than Tolson remote control boat equipment. They are designed to be left out in all weathers in conditions much more extreme than we will ever get in the UK.
If you are able to use a Raymarine you will see that there is no comparison. Whether you NEED a Raymarine on a remote controlled boat is another question.
While I don't want to get in the way of two grown men arguing over toy boats
Have you used a Raymarine echo? The ‘better graphics' that you comment on is far more information and detail being picked up and displayed for you to use. How you interpret that data is up to you, but a combination of the raw sonar and Downvision is a little more powerful than a Deeper. You are showing a lack of understanding here, both use Chirp technology, but the spec is very different.
As for reliability, let's not forget that Raymarine are made for actual boats rather than Tolson remote control boat equipment. They are designed to be left out in all weathers in conditions much more extreme than we will ever get in the UK.
If you are able to use a Raymarine you will see that there is no comparison. Whether you NEED a Raymarine on a remote controlled boat is another question.
In reply to Post #64
The maths says carplounge sells 350 boats a month so there will be the odd quality control issue no doubt. If 300 sb3's get sold a year probably seen as a good year. My point I was making is you actively said the boat is unreliable including the raymarine whilst never owning one. Furthermore when asked you mentioned your comparison is to the v3 which isn't even the boat the author asked about lol.
Anyways I'm not having an argument over a boat on a forum. Each to their own
The maths says carplounge sells 350 boats a month so there will be the odd quality control issue no doubt. If 300 sb3's get sold a year probably seen as a good year. My point I was making is you actively said the boat is unreliable including the raymarine whilst never owning one. Furthermore when asked you mentioned your comparison is to the v3 which isn't even the boat the author asked about lol.
Anyways I'm not having an argument over a boat on a forum. Each to their own
In reply to Post #65
Lol - fair point - I do have a German car that I really like if that's ok?
Again have owned a couple of Chirps and have witnessed Raymarines detail on the bank (not the new elements/side vision however) and both are more detailed but to your point in terms of relevance I agree. Comparing with Chirp+ I think I probably caught more fish using a basic lucky sonar on a boat than with the narrow beamed Chirp - sounds daft I know but its primarily because I think the topography detail makes you waaay more 'picky' in terms of spot selection and that you start to reject areas that you think may not be as effective because of this . . . for me the Toslon TF740 is the perfect balance as an all round and effective carpers tool
As stated all opinions and horses for courses!
Lol - fair point - I do have a German car that I really like if that's ok?
Again have owned a couple of Chirps and have witnessed Raymarines detail on the bank (not the new elements/side vision however) and both are more detailed but to your point in terms of relevance I agree. Comparing with Chirp+ I think I probably caught more fish using a basic lucky sonar on a boat than with the narrow beamed Chirp - sounds daft I know but its primarily because I think the topography detail makes you waaay more 'picky' in terms of spot selection and that you start to reject areas that you think may not be as effective because of this . . . for me the Toslon TF740 is the perfect balance as an all round and effective carpers tool
As stated all opinions and horses for courses!
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