c550

I've had my c550 since January and use it daily for my work and also for personal use.

I really like the TTS function as it helps me find my way around without having to stare at the screen. The screen itself is just the right size and the anti-glare makes it easy to see in just about any lighting condition.

The Bluetooth function isn't all that helpful in my work truck (semi) due to the level of ambient noise but it works OK in my personal pickup truck.

I'm not that much into MP3s so that functionality isn't big on my list. Also, the speakers for the MP3 player can't quite keep up with the noise in the cab of my truck.

The traffic function is sort of useful for the cities I travel in but, as discussed in previous threads, the information supplied isn't all that current.

I've got all the locations in my territory (Southeast US) uploaded to the unit so it's been a lifesaver for my work.

Knowing what I know now, if I would have found a Garmin with the TTS function and anti-glare screen without the Bluetooth and MP3, I would have gone that way.

Gordon,
Thank you for all that information it was very helpful! Can you hear the gps instructions ok over the truck noise? My work truck is an F-350 diesel but not as noisy as a rig like yours. I can hear my i3 pretty good so I would imagine they would be similar. I really want the Nuvi 660 mostly because it has an FM transmitter built-in and plays the sounds over your stereo system but it's expensive and hard to justify the expense. I'll definitely take your advice! From what you say the traffic seems pretty worthless. I drive around Boston quite often and there's always traffic problems so I thought it would be helpful.

Thanx again,
Ray

You may be interested in this link: gps Information on C550

RT

Thanx RT that info was helpful too and they seem to really like it..

Ray

Depends on what you really need, and what you really want. Like Audio books? Language guide? (maybe in Boston you might, lol),Currency calculator? Sat acquisition etc, etc the niceties are neat for sure.

If you have open FM channels you can use just about any plug in FM Transmitter. It is something extra to plug in but, it works. Two speakers are nice, as is the external volume control.

The referenced web site above does a good job, the traffic screen shots are outdated though.

For me in the DFW area traffic system works fairly well. If you get a 550, it comes with the gtm-20 and three months free service. You can try it and decide for yourself.

I've had no major problems with mine. The only thing I'd favor would be screen size and overall size. You know, either way you go, theres not a bad choice.

"If you have open FM channels you can use just about any plug in FM Transmitter. It is something extra to plug in but, it works."

Never thought of that! I have to look into that too. The C550 offers alot for the price. Have found several online dealers for under $350.00..

Thanx,
Ray

I have the C550 and love it. Since I'm a victum of GPS theft, I never take any chances and quite often take the GPS with me (in my pocket). It's huge. I would like ALL the same features but in a smaller size (for my pocket) or while walking through a major city. I like the traffic feature and waiting for my next phone with bluetooth so I can use that feature also. MP3 works great.

Other close Garmin match has audio book feature and currency stuff. I have no need for those.

With the would add some features so it would be more user friendly for geocaching.

Ray if you want nuvi only because the FM transmitter get c550 and buy FM transmiter separately, it's abou $20-30, so you' save some $$$

Hope it helps

I've had the c550 since june, however I'm on my third one. The first two units failed to power on after about two weeks. Garmin replace both of them and the third one seems to be charmed. I like the 550 for use in the car, but knowing what I know now I would have gotten one suited more for motorcycles i.e. supports routes and tracks and blue tooth headsets. I will say that when working the c550 does all it is supposed to do and does it well.

Enjoy
Vic

Hi Vic,
I am surprised you've had so many problems with your 550. I looked into motorcycle gps's and they are very expensive so I decided against that. You also mentioned bluetooth headsets, wouldn't they work with that gps?

Thanx,
Ray

My only thought on these failures (and it may not be applicable) is that the 550 probably can't take the vibration of being on a motorcycle for extended periods since that's not what is was designed for.

Hi MM,
Good point on a possible vibration issue. It is possible for solder joints to crack if exposed to lots of vibration however gps's should be designed to handle vibration because in my work truck it's a pretty rough ride and I've used it daily for the past year with no trouble. I suspect a possible bad batch of gps units may be the culprit.
I'd love to get a zumo but they still are very expensive.

Take Care,
Ray

I have had the C550 for just over 6 months now and I think it is great. I use the TTS voice (very easy to follow). The screen is big enough to see, but not an obstruction and an easy to use touch screen. The bluetooth is outstanding and the updated firmware make s the text messaging even more helpful. On the negative side, I find the MP3 player kind of useless and it would be better if you could input multiple destinations from the beginning. Other than that, its a full thumbs up from me...

Good Luck..

RP

Thanx for your input RP! I value the feedback of poi-factory members....

Ray

The volume of the voice instructions is just fine in the big rig even with the window open. You should have no trouble at all in an F-350.

I have the C530 and am very happy with it. It is essentially a stripped down version of the C550. I find it very accurate and easy to use. I really don't miss the TTS feature, however, if I had it, I am sure I would like it. My unit tells me to turn in 200 feet or so, so it is not all comfusing if it does not mention the street name. The street name I am turning onto is displayed on the screen so you have it to refer to.

The unit is well built and sturdy. If you can live with a GPS that is too large to fit in a shirt pocket, then you should love the c550.

Hi guys, the garmins have never been used on my motorcycle, I just wish I had purchased one that could have been, When I talked to Garmin they told me that both fails where related to a glitch in the software that should have been fixed when I did the webupdate. I updated each unit when I received it but it wasn't until the third one that I noticed a specific file update that fixed the "glitch". So far the third unit has worked flawlessly.

Why don't you like the MP3 feature? It works great ona motorcycle with a bluetooth headset.

I've got the c550 and drive an f-250 diesel. No problems hearing the directions whatsoever!

Hi Tom,
Am I reading you correctly that you can use the C550 with a bluetooth headset on a motorcycle?? I just ordered a C580 with bluetooth so I can do the same thing...

Cool!

Ray