Replacing Northstar NS-100 VHF with ???

[Windjammer]

Ok, so I'm thinking about making the change and want to stay with the "black box" style. After perusing BOE's site it looks like there are 4 choices:
1. ICOM M400BB $499.99 - doesn't look like this comes with the external speaker which is a feature I'd like to have.
2. Raymarine Ray260 $699.99
3. Garmin VHF 300 $571.71
4. Simrad RS90 $799.00

All appear to have similar features (probably all made in the same factory in China!) but my concern is compatibility with existing equipment (GPS antenna and C80). Does VHF get position from C80 or is there a splitter from antenna to feed each unit? I also suspect that each manufacturer has its own set of connectors - power, NEMA In/NEMA Out/,etc.
Other than price, any unit better than another. Any experiences, helpful hints, or war stories?

 

[Windjammer]

Bump. Who has replaced their NS-100 VHF and what did you replace it with?

 

[Medin]

VHF gets the position from the C80. I have not replaced my NS-100 but I like ICOM M400BB. Seems like a good option. Reasonable price too. If you replace your NS-100 and your handset is ok, I would be happy to buy it from you :thumbsup:

 

[srl]

I replaced my Northstar with the Icom 400bb. You need to crimp on new connectors, 2 wires connect your GPS I have a C120. I used the Northstar speaker you just have to bypass the volume control on the speaker. There is a external speaker connection on the Icom & the volume of both speakers can be independently from the mic (talk to Icom about this instructions are not clear). Took me about an hour including reaming out the mic connector hole in the dash (the Icom needs a bigger hole). Was $400 at BOE a couple of months ago & then a $100 rebate from Icom.

 

[BOEMARINEBRIAN]

I believe that youll be most happy with the Icom 400 BB its a bargain! http://www.boemarine.com/icom-m400bb-vhf-marine-black-box-map-499-99/