Hi Karl,
I dont post much lately, I was browsing the ctx 3030 forum then I came here and caught your post, I remember trying to get a starting setting when I got my Exp. II and got the same responses you got, Maybe this will help you get started./
If your new to exp. ferrous might be easier to use for starters -
then try
Iron Mask / -16
Gain 7
thres tone - middle setting
Variability - I use 9 in conductive sounds, and 10 in ferrous usually for park hunting
Noise - try the highest one ,11 I think,if its to noisy do a noise cancel and let the det. choose.
recover- I think fast and deep off is good if you go slow
Response - Normal
Sens- depends on your ground, but if you can run manual at 22 - 24 you might be better off than using auto, but it depends on your location and its the easiest setting to toggle back and forth on,
I'm not to familiar with the pitch hold function , but I wouid probably leave that off till you get used to the target sounds, just my opinion, but I havent used it , I know its there for a reason.
These settings are probably going to get you going allright , and let the deep silver high fluty tone come thru.
Nothing is written in stone , you can change all or any settings as you go..
I use an Ex. II , but they aren't much different I think.
HH