How good is the old Spectrum?

[RTIZONI]

I got a friend who is trying to sell his old spectrum, so far i just used the DFX and i really got interested in the offer, now the question is could i have some benefit in buying the spectrum, something more in the relic hunting like depth?

 

[Anonymous]

I used a Spectrum for 10 years, and mopped up alot of relics with it. I have been digging since '82, and the Spectrum has found more for me than any other. Not that it's better than an MXT, or other model. I'd say if the price is right, get it. Doesn't hurt to have a spare.

 

[robert roy]

Is there a NEW Spectrum?
RR

 

[sumrtym]

The original Eagle Spectrum (bigger control box) was one of the best detectors White's ever put out. For their digital models, I found it the deepest detector they ever made with rock solid ID. You lose the easy identification of nickels you see on the DFX and will probably hardly ever dig any, but in my experience with BOTH detectors, you gain stability, depth, and rock solid ID over the DFX you are used to using.

 

[RTIZONI]

Thanks guys, i think i will buy it, i dont know the machine but i read lots of good things about it, like Tesoronut say a spare machine, will be good to have it.

 

[w1ki]

The Eagle Spectrum was a "first cousin" to the XLT that White's still sells. I had one for many years and really enjoyed it. I would say if you get to know either the XLT or the older Spectrum, the transition to the other would be very easy. To me, the major benefit of the XLT over the older spectrum is that the XLT uses 8 size double A batteries while the Spectrum uses 4 Size C. I think the 8 double A's have a longer life than the 4 C cells. I would not hesitate to own another one if I was in the market for a second machine.

 

[jackintexas]

A hunting buddy of mine was hunting with the "big box" spectrum back in the early 90's when I was hunting with another brand. We both got XLT's when they first came out. Even today he says he is not sure if the "big box" was not the better detector.....Jack

 

[Steve from Ohio]

I still have my Spectrum I bought in 1991. I have six other machines . Minelab Explorer SE, Tesoro Sand Shark, Fisher 1280X, White's XLT, Garrett GTI 2500 and an Excalibur II. Bought and sold probably 20 others.

Each machine has it's purpose and I use the Spectrum with the Bigfoot coil more often than any of the other machines. If I want to cover a playground, park or ball diamond, the Spectrum is hard to beat. Even on the beaches, the Spectrum has advantages over the others especially with the Bigfoot coil.

I really think that the old Spectrum was just ahead of its time and still today is a viable machine for many purposes. Previous postings mentioned rock solid ID....they are right. I do find quite a few nickles. Only because I dig for them.

Not as deep as the Explorer, not waterproof as the Excalibur II or the Fisher. But as an all around fast and furious finders of fallen coins, you just cannot beat a Spectrum.

I converted mine to hip mount and I can swing it for 4 hours straight without getting tired. With the Bigfoot coil, it is even lighter than with the standard 950 coil.

Will probably sell the XLT to my brother and keep the old tried and true Spectrum. In my top two of machines that I love. The other is the Minelab Explorer SE updated with the double d coil.