Comparing the Minelab Manticore, Equinox 900 and Equinox 600 Detectors
by MetalDetector.com Staff
When it comes to metal detectors, Minelab stands out with its innovative designs and high performance. The Minelab Manticore, Equinox 900 and Equinox 600 offer varying levels of technology and features to cater to different needs and experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned detectorist or just starting, there's a Minelab model for you.
Minelab Manticore:
The Minelab Manticore is the top-of-the-line option for those seeking advanced features and versatile performance. It is designed for users who want the very best in metal detecting technology.
- Search Modes: Includes All-Terrain, Beach, and Goldfield modes with specialized profiles.
- Frequency: Utilizes advanced Multi-IQ+ technology for simultaneous multi-frequency detection.
- Sensitivity: Highly adjustable, ranging from 1 to 35 for precise control.
- Depth Indicator: Provides detailed depth information with a range of arrows based on target depth.
- Unique Features: Advanced Target ID Map and Target Trace for enhanced target identification and depth measurement.
Minelab Equinox 900:
The Equinox 900 is an upgrade from the 600, offering improved features and flexibility. It's ideal for users who need a balance of advanced functionality and customization.
- Search Modes: Park, Field, Beach, and Gold modes with two profiles each for customized settings.
- Frequency: Multi-IQ with options for single frequencies (4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz).
- Sensitivity: Adjustable from 1 to 28, focusing on achieving the highest stable setting.
- Depth Indicator: Shows approximate depth with a varying number of arrows.
- Unique Features: Customizable profiles within each mode, offering flexibility for different conditions.
Minelab Equinox 600:
The Equinox 600 provides good performance at a more reasonable price. It is a great choice for beginners and hobbyists who want good functionality on a budget.
- Search Modes: Park, Field, Beach, and Gold modes for versatile detecting.
- Frequency: Multi-IQ technology with single frequencies (4, 5, 10, 15 kHz).
- Sensitivity: Adjustable up to 25 levels, optimizing for a range of detecting conditions.
- Depth Indicator: Displays approximate depth with varying arrows.
- Unique Features: Simple interface with essential features for effective detecting.
Key Comparison Table
| Feature | Equinox 600 | Equinox 900 | Manticore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Search Modes | Park, Field, Beach | Park, Field, Beach, Gold | All-Terrain, Beach, Goldfield |
| Custom Search Profiles | 6 (2 per mode) | 8 | 10 |
| User Profile Button | No | Yes | Yes |
| Operating Frequencies | Multi, 4, 5, 10, 15 kHz | Multi, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz | Multi-IQ+, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz |
| Noise Cancel | Auto | Auto (19 Channels), Manual | Auto, Continuous Auto, Manual (−9 to +9) |
| Ground Balance | Auto, Manual | Auto, Manual, Tracking | Auto, Manual, Tracking (−9 - 99) |
| Sensitivity | 1 to 25 | 1 to 28 | 1 to 35 |
| Target Volume | 0 to 25 | 0 to 25 | 0 to 25 |
| Threshold Level | 0 to 25 | 0 to 25 | 0 to 25 |
| Threshold Pitch | Fixed | 0 to 25 | Adjustable, 1 to 50 |
| Target Identification (TID) | Ferrous: −9 to 0; non-ferrous: 1 to 40 | Ferrous: −19 to 0; Non-Ferrous 1 to 99 | Conductive: 0 to 99 w/ ferrous indication |
| Target Tones | 1, 2, 5, 50 | 1, 2, 5, All Tones (At), Depth (dP) | 1, 2, 5-Tone | 1, 2, 5-Region All Tones |
| Tone Break | Ferrous | Ferrous, Non-ferrous | Ferrous, Non-ferrous |
| Tone Pitch | Ferrous | All tones adjustable: 0 to 25 | Ferrous Pitch: 1 to 50, Target Pitch: 1 to 50 |
| Tone Volume | Ferrous | All tones adjustable: 0 to 25 | 0 to 25 |
| Recovery Speed | 1 to 3 | 1 to 8 | 0 to 8 |
| Iron Bias | 0 to 3 | 0 to 9 | Upper: 0 to 14 | Lower: 0 to 9 |
| Depth Indicator | 5 levels | 5 levels | 5 levels |
| Discrimination Segments | 119 segments | 119 segments | 99 segments (Conductive) |
| Pinpoint Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Shaft System | Adjustable, aluminum | Adjustable, aluminum | Adjustable, carbon fiber |
| Weight | 1.34 kg/2.96lbs | 1.27kg/2.8lbs | 1.5 kg |
| Battery Life | ~12hrs | ~12hrs | ~10hrs |
| Waterproof | Yes - 3m/10feet | Yes - 5m/16ft | Yes - 5m/16ft |
What Sets Each Model Apart
Minelab Manticore: This model is the pinnacle of Minelab technology with its advanced Multi-IQ+ frequency system and specialized modes. Ideal for experienced detectorists seeking the highest level of detail and performance.
Minelab Equinox 900: An excellent choice for those who want advanced features and customizable settings at a slightly lower price point than the Manticore. It offers flexibility with customizable profiles and a range of frequencies.
Minelab Equinox 600: Perfect for beginners and casual users, offering a reliable and straightforward detector with essential features. It provides great value without compromising on performance.
Explore these models to find the one that best fits your detecting needs. Whether you're after the ultimate in technology or a solid, reliable option, Minelab has a detector to match your requirements.
For more Minelab Metal Detectors, check out our collection of Minelab products.