Matt,

 

Having a map on the HSI is a huge improvement over a needle and a to/from flag.  I know I sound awfully spoiled, saying an HSI is old tech, my point was if you are going to put a big glass screen in your airplane with a computer and AHRS, you should get more than a flat horizon line.  This started with a comparison of Chelton and Avidyne.

 

I learned to fly IFR with back course approaches with reverse needle sensing, ADFs that wander, flying holding patterns with 3 laps to get the inbound leg right.  Figuring out how to keep your procedure turns inside the maximum distance.

 

The new technology is awesome.  I was flying around the Atlanta Class B with the rings displayed on the MX20, including all the altitudes.  I remember circumnavigating the Los Angeles TCA/Class B with a DME and VOR radials.  I'd never go back!

 

The fact that we can now install radios and autopilots that will enter a hold, fly a full procedure turn, change frequencies, and fly an ILS or WAAA approach to minimums with minimal pilot workload is amazing.

 

Mike