[Chris Burkard]

I actually like Raymarine, but I do acknowledge that they have their flaws and drawbacks and you pointed most of them out above. I do really like the new Garmin units, but I do not have as much experience with them. I do have a client however that is having an issue with a new Garmin digital HD Radar on a 59' Yacht. Garmin has been to repair it multiple times and have failed to provide a long lasting fix. I guess each manufacturer has their drawbacks and quirks. Furuno has always been more difficult to use, at least on the older machines. I have not had the opportunity to play with the newer Furuno components. My favorite VHF radio is Icom. I agree, the Raymarine VHFs are not that great and yes, the cords disintegrate in the sun after about 5 years.

I have sold nearly every brand of electronics with all of the boats I have sold over the years. They all become obsolete after about 5 years, so if they make it that long, you have done well.

In the end however, I suggest buying what you like and if at all possible, buy and have your electronics installed locally, so you have good service for them in your home port. This can be more important than the brand.