Craig:

You really can't beat the value of Garmin products, IMHO. Their customer service beats Raymarine's hands down! Their internet updates for all their products continues for years after you buy a product, so you are always able to download new unit software with many improvements-- and at no cost! When I wanted an update in Raytheon software for a radar it cost me $500 to get it back at the factory in NH.

As for the compass, I would say you do need it for MARPA, and MARPA was (and maybe still is) a great accessory to have! Now, with AIS, it may not be as important as before-- except that vessels without AIS transponders will not show on your plotter, so then the MARPA would come in to play. What you might do is try it without the compass. you can always add it later if you think you need to!

Good luck with your decision!

Rodd