I've owned and hunted with several Explorer models, as well as all three X-Terras. And frankly, there are many similarities. Before I tell you what it is that puts the X-Terra at the top of my list, let me tell you what I think of the Explorer. The 28 frequency Explorer has, without a doubt, the most refined target analyzation circuitry available. Combining the ability to display both ferrous and conductive readings is unique to the Explorer. The Explorer, when set properly and operated by someone who understands those settings, can be one of the deepest coin detectors in the marketplace. The downside for some is not knowing how to set their machine at optimum performance, for a given site. All detectors have somewhat of a learning curve. But the Explorer has so many variable settings that many people are either intimidated by them. Or, they start tweaking them without realizing that they are creating more harm than good. I enjoyed using my Explorers when my health was better.
These days, I find that the Explorer's balance is just too much for this crippled old body to handle.
The single frequency X-Terra 70 VLF detector is also unique in the marketplace, due to the ability to utilize 3 different frequencies of coils. Coming with a standard 9-inch concentric at 7.5 kHz, it serves the needs of coinshooters and relic hunters alike. When you add in one of the 18.75 kHz coils, Prospecting for gold can be added to that list. Particularly with the 6-inch DD at 18.75 kHz. Personally, I like the 9-inch concentric at 3 kHz, for hunting old farmsites. I think all three of the 9-inch concentrics offer comparable depth. But the distinct low tone produced by deep iron targets, when running multi-tone and all metal, makes hunting those old farmsites more productive. Beach hunters seem to do well with the 6 X 10 elliptical DD at 18.75. As with those who prospect, the higher frequencies are better in-tune with gold. For coin hunting in yards and parks, it is tough to beat either of the 6-inch coils. Although the 6-inch concentric at 7.5 kHz serves me well. I usually opt for the 6-inch DD at 18.75 kHz, for the separation characteristics offered by the DD design. Many serious relic hunters sing the praises of the 10-inch DD coils, with the 7.5 kHz version getting the most attention.
The X-Terra is lightweight and very well balanced. It can operate for 35 - 40 hours on four AA batteries and has a very forgiving sweep speed. It offers an adjustable threshold and separate volume settings for use with, or without headphones. The X-70 offers a Coin / Treasure mode that provides an all metal hunt mode, as well as 3 separate Patterns. Each of these patterns can be adjusted to either accept or reject any (or all) of the 28 notch segments. There is a pinpoint mode that helps isolate targets and estimates depth. Instead, I prefer to use the Prospecting mode (with Iron Mask Discrimination) to pinpoint and assist me with determining the size and shape of the target. To properly ground balance the X-terra 70, you have your choice of Auto GB, Manual GB or Track mode. It offers automatic Noise Cancel channels and a fully adjustable Sensitivity control. And, if you like to hunt beaches, there is even a Beach Mode. You can set the audio of the X-70 to report targets in one tone, two tones, three tones, four tones or even a multi-tone mode (28 tones). Like the Explorer, tone ID will greatly enhance your detecting productivity. The two-digit notch system leaves very little margin of error in target ID. I know some folks make posts about how certain trash targets come in where they expected to find a coin. But after 36 years of detecting, I'll tell you that happens with all detectors. The key to having success in this hobby is learning your detector, setting it properly for the site you are hunting and simply enjoying the hunt. The X-Terra makes short work of the first two. Which makes the last one come natural. JMHO HH Randy
