I goofed , got the TDK's from 'newegg'
Brandx
IF you use a cell phone, computer or any other digital device frequently, understand them well, had little trouble in learning them, could easily see how one function of the machine worked with other functions and enjoyed digging into these devices to learn all that they could do then by all means purchase the upper end machine.
IF you do not find it fun to deal with a simple cell phone and its functions, are uncomfortable with defragmenting your computer or doing a disc cleanup and in general do not like digging into these products to learn or if you have only a small amount of time to devote to metal detecting then purchase a lower end but not bottom of the line machine.
Then again it looks like you want to get into general metal detecting (not prospecting) and if that is the case then by staying with a good mid range detector with any of the manufacturers - Whites, Tessoro, Garret, Fischer - then you want to look at their customer service, warranties, coil selections, EMI interference, total weight of the machine with batteries and coil, and check out various metal detecting blogs for customer complaints about the machine(s) you are looking at. Why? With new modern detectors all these brands produce machines that perform amazing detecting feats with depth of detection, ease of detection, reliability of the detecting information the machine tells the detectorist and they are solid state marvels that will last a long time if treated well (IE: protect them from rain and wet situations, Treat them with respect and care for them well).
Okay, my brain is getting tired and empty. I hope this other way of looking at your desire to metal detect is helpful. When I first started I was building detectors from scratch from plans given in electronics magazines and it was fun but not very useful. I then obtained my first White's, a used 6000 D coinmaster, and even today that analog machine is still making good finds but it is heavy and due to it's guts being mechanical it can loose its responsiveness to targets but a good machine is worth its weight in excitement, fun and will release the user from everyday cares as when I am out detecting my mind is focused on what the machine is telling me and I find it relaxing. Work at your decision and you will be pleased with the results OH, and if this "hobby" proves to your liking then this will be the first of your detectors as with experience and dedication (like after you've found your first silver coin and then a gold ring) you will want to move up to something with greater capabilities.........63bkpkr
P.S. - as you were advised earlier earphones are very useful. First it helps to more clearly hear what the machine is telling you as earphones block out other noises, second it makes the detecting more private (others can not hear it) and third wireless earphones eliminate the cord and that is a true blessing and the ultimate in detecting experience. I have both a good coiled "Detecting Headset" and a wireless set and I prefer the wireless. I purchased a TDK model WR700HP online from
newegg (look for coupons for a discount). The TDK's work perfectly, no lag in signal to coil position on the ground, have wonderful clarity in sound reproduction but for metal detecting I find that most detectors have a 1/4" plug so a 90 degree adapter needs to be purchased to go from the TDK mini plug to the detector 1/4" plug. These earphones are mostly plastic so they need protection when stored so I keep them in a sturdy lidded plastic food storage container (another $6.00 purchase/insurance policy).
So here is a picture of the headphone port on the detector box with the right angle adapter inserted into the detector, the earphone transceiver mini plug plugged into the adapter, the headset wrapped around the detector and the detector is sitting on top of the heavy duty plastic food storage box I purchased at Bed Bath & Beyond, a store chain in California that does not understand they have a metal detecting accessories section in their store!! What is not in the picture would be the headphone cord because there is not a cord with wireless headphones!!!!!!!!
Note: The transceiver needs some support wherever it is plugged in at, I usually use a rubber band to keep it from swinging down into harms way.
In the left side bar from all the replies you've received to your question, look at what detectors these folks are using as another clue as to the type of machine to purchase. Also, Terry Soloman really knows detectors especially the Tessoro brand and although that brand was not one you were looking at you could take a second look at the one he suggested.
. I hope to hear from more.
I agree. Still looking.
