Really considering DFX or VX3

[Lakemonster]

Over the last few months I have been considering a new detector. I have mainly used analog machines in the past. My current machine is an AT pro. I like the AT... but I want a machine that is more "hands on" as for settings.

I was considering going the Minelab route... but the service issues they have turned me away.

I have instead been reading up and watching instruction videos on Youtube for both the Whites machines.

I like everything about the DFX... but for one issue. You take the battery out and all your customized settings go away?
Does the VX3 do the same?

Another thing I have wondered about is with the VX3, when you choose a single frequency, does it still transmit in all three and only process the one? I understand the DFX tx's, but when set for single freq, only processes the one.

Are there noticeable depth differences between the two models?

Sorry, I know theres several random questions in this post... I wish I had followed Whites more closely.

Thanks for any input you have!

[mgtmadness]

I have the DFX and I know for a fact you do not lose your settings, However It will default back to the Coins Program when you remove and re-install the battery pack. All you would have to do is scroll down and reload your program.
Let's say you make a program and while using your program you change the AC Sensitivity and continue hunting, if you pull out the battery, you will lose your most recent change(AC Sensitivity) if you do not Save it.

[FCCDFEd]

mgtmaadness is right, You do not lose any programs that you have developed and loaded. I will default back to the original but it is just a matter of selecting your choice of programs after changing your battery. I love my DFX and it gives you an unlimited possibilities of programs. Also there are a lot of people using the DFX that have developed programs that will share with you giving you the expertise of many fine MDer's.

[liftloop]

don't own either one of them but i do own a lot of white's detector and to me any white's in your hands and you will come out a winner.

[Lakemonster]

Scored a VX3 from a local dealer today!

Took it out to the local park and nailed some clad and a little silver ring.

I like it... it really handles junk iron well.

I gotta get used to the VDI spread on this thing. Mixed mode is awesome... not great for trashy areas.

[earthmansurfer]

I have not used a DFX and currently have a V3i. I have seen this question asked many times and without a doubt those who have used both say the same thing: There is no comparison, the V3i/VX3 is a MUCH better and EASIER machine to set up. You will have a much harder time to get the same depth out of the DFX. V's are deeper out of the box. If you are on a budget just get the VX3, that is essentially the DFX's replacement. If you get a DFX expert and compare him to a new V3i user, he will probably smoke him, but that can be said of most machines. The V's menu is very very easy to navigate, the DFX I have read have been much much harder for users.

The difference in technology (processor speed) and code is immense. We are talking years of improvements.

The V's only transmit in one frequency if that is what you set it to do. They transmit in 3 at a reduced power output (shared). That said, you will only get slightly better depth (depending on the target) in single frequency. An interesting fact - single frequency machines are usually better in iron. The Minelabs and Fisher CZ's combine their multiple frequencies, the V's do not. It gives you very very good performance in iron - as a single frequency machine would. The V's never combine their frequencies. That said, from what I have read with users who have both the E-Trac and V3i - it is a toss up. The V3i is more flexible, a better gold machine and maybe more complicated but the E-Trac MIGHT be better on silver. I say might cause if you set the V up right, it is an incredible machine - Extremely sensitive. If it wasn't for the weight, I'd have an E-trac. I'll wait for it's lighter and faster replacement.

Hope that was helpful,
EMS

[U.K. Brian]

For any of the Whites machines from Spectrums through to the V3 you don't lose your programmes if you remove your low battery then insert a live pack.
There's a limited time but the internal memory will hold all your settings as long as you are fairly quick in the change.

V3 is way better than the DFX but its down to budget as you can pick up a new DFX for less than half the price of the V3. Its a good cheap entry to twin frequency detecting and it could be all you need.