Anyone using this model? pros and cons? Don't need the plotter so interested in sonar capability and performance.

The elite 5xHDI was a good model. It has now been superseeded by the elite 5x CHIRP, which is better.

I'm sure you realise, but the x indicates it is a sounder only model. No GPS.

I have the Elite-7 HDI. I think the sonar is good, although I don't have much experience of others. It is certainly much better than my previous unit, a Garmin 400C, very cheap colour unit. I have used it up to 40m depth. At speed up to my max 22knots, , it shows bottom well and fish sign clearly - sometimes small fish in a mass and sometimes individual fish. The only problem is some interference from the motor wash - I know it s that, as when I trim the motor in its worse and out its less - nothing major, presumably its a bit too close to the prop (small 4.1m boat).
I find the controls rather complicated and long-winded to use, but perfectly doable. . That's made worse because I have a touch screen gps unit as well, and the touch controls are far easier. After trying touch, it would be hard to go back to buttons!
I think 5" screen would be enough for sonar (but for combo incl gps, think 7" is needed).

Replaced my 10+ yr old huminbird with a elite 5    still use the huminbird for gps ....I do miss not having more than 2x zoom...still getting used to it...... regardless nice unit
Also having issues with transducer positioning at speed... but had same issue with the huminbird... has to do with hull design before sounders where common or affordable

Would I buy another one.. yes

oh came with Cmap....do prefer the navonic map on the huminbird

Where are they on special? I'm looking at one too.I have the hds 5 as a combo and looking at getting an extra screen

Hunter- I got mine from Burnsco's trademe store, $750 for elite 5 HDI combo unit with navionics gold card, thought that was a bargain