The Garrett AT Max is a significant upgrade from the highly regarded AT Pro, providing treasure hunters with enhanced features and improved performance. This review explores the key changes that distinguish the AT Max from its predecessor.
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Garrett AT max vs AT Pro
The Garrett AT Max, introduced at the end of 2017, stands out as the most advanced and user-friendly device in Garrett’s metal detector lineup. It offers a range of settings and features that were not available in earlier models, such as the AT Pro and AT Gold. These enhancements make the AT Max a versatile choice for both novice and experienced detectorists, ensuring they can effectively tackle various treasure hunting scenarios.
In the world of metal detecting, choosing the right device can be challenging, especially when models are closely related. This review will focus on the differences between the Garrett AT Max and the AT Pro to help you make an informed decision.
Wireless Headphones
A significant upgrade in the Garrett AT Max is the inclusion of wireless headphones, which are part of the package. While they are not submersible, their wireless nature enhances convenience and freedom during searches. Users who have tried them often appreciate the lack of cumbersome cords.
Operating Frequency
The Garrett AT Gold operates at 18 kHz, while the AT Pro functions at 15 kHz. The AT Max features a frequency of 13.6 kHz. Although there is a noticeable difference between 15 and 18 kHz, the difference between 15 and 13.6 kHz may not be substantial for most users. Some might consider this aspect a marketing strategy rather than a significant performance enhancement.
Search Depth and Signal Penetration
The manufacturer claims that the AT Max offers improved search depth. However, it uses the same coil as the AT Pro. The enhancement is largely attributed to software improvements rather than hardware changes, which may lead some to question the extent of this upgrade.
Threshold Setting
The threshold setting is another feature that can influence performance. While it is important, many users may not fully understand its purpose. Notably, the Garrett AT Gold also has this feature, raising questions about its necessity in distinguishing between the two models.
Display Backlighting
A backlit display is a practical addition to the AT Max, particularly beneficial for treasure hunters working in bright sunlight. This feature addresses a common complaint from AT Pro users, who often struggled to see their display in sunny conditions.
Volume Adjustment
Another frequently requested feature among AT Pro users was volume adjustment. Garrett listened to customer feedback and added this function to the AT Max, enhancing user experience and control.
In conclusion, while the Garrett AT Max has several enhancements over the AT Pro, including wireless headphones, improved backlighting, and volume control, some features may not represent significant upgrades in performance. It’s essential to evaluate these changes based on your specific needs and preferences to determine which model suits you best.
| Model | Garrett AT Max |
| Weight | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs) |
| Length (Adjustable) | 43″ to 56″ (1.09m – 1.4m) |
| Batteries | 4 AA |
| Headphones | Included, wireless |
| Warranty | 2 year |
| Circuit Type | VLF |
| Standard Searchcoil | 8.5″ x 11″ DD PROformance |
| Operating Frequencies (kHz) | 13.6 |
| Water resistance | Waterproof metal detector |
| Submersion Depth | up to 10 feet |
| Iron Discrimination Segments | 44 |
| Ground Balance | Manual |
| Search Modes | 4 (all Pro Audio) |
| Audio Threshold | Yes |
| Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments | 8 |
| Electronic Pinpointing | Yes |
| VDI (0 to 99 scale) | Yes |
| Build-in flashlight | Yes |
| Enhanced Detection Depth | Yes |
| True All-Metal Mode | Yes |
| Auto Ground Balance Window | Yes |
| Iron Audio™ (Disc. Modes) | Yes |
| All Metal Iron Audio | Yes |
| Fast Recovery Speed | Yes |
| Target Depth Indicator | Yes |
| Battery Condition Indicator | Yes |
| Updatable Software | No |
Last update on 2024-12-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates
Review
The shaft
According to Garrett, the AT Max features a better-balanced design compared to the AT Pro and AT Gold, thanks to enhancements in the device casing and handle. This balance significantly improves user comfort during long treasure hunting sessions by effectively distributing weight, which helps reduce arm fatigue.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the AT Max shares many design elements with the AT Pro. It features an S-shaped shaft, an ergonomic armrest, a control unit, and a coil. However, the most notable change is the transition from a foam handle to a more practical rubber one. This upgrade not only enhances grip but also adds to the overall convenience of using the device.
The construction of the AT Max uses high-quality materials designed for durability, ensuring it withstands the rigors of outdoor use. The adjustable shaft length is another beneficial feature, allowing users to customize the AT Max to their preferred height, with an adjustable range from 43 inches to 56 inches (1.09 m to 1.4 m). This adaptability caters to a wide range of users, ensuring that everyone can find a comfortable position for efficient detecting.
The coil
The Garrett AT Max continues to maintain its foundational features, including the coil design discussed in the AT Pro review.
Currently, the AT Max operates at a low frequency of 13.6 kHz, which is lower than the 15 kHz of the AT Pro and the 18 kHz of the AT Gold. This lower operating frequency enhances the device’s ability to perform well in beach hunting scenarios, as it provides greater sensitivity to targets while reducing the occurrence of phantom signals often generated by highly mineralized soils. By minimizing these false signals, users can focus on genuine targets, making their treasure hunting experience more efficient and enjoyable.
The headphones
The Garrett AT Max package includes MS3 Z-Lynk wireless headphones, which can be used both wirelessly and with a wired connection.
These headphones utilize Garrett’s proprietary Z-Lynk technology, providing an impressive 14 ms signal delay, far superior to traditional Bluetooth connections. This minimal delay enhances the responsiveness of audio feedback, allowing users to react quickly while treasure hunting.
The headphones are designed for ease of use, featuring an adjustable volume control to suit individual preferences. With a frequency range of 30 Hz to 18 kHz, they cover nearly the entire spectrum of sounds detectable by the human ear, ensuring that users can clearly hear all relevant audio signals during their detecting activities. Additionally, the MS3 Z-Lynk headphones come with a 12-month warranty, providing peace of mind for users.
While these headphones were designed for the AT Max, they are also compatible with any model of Garrett metal detector. However, to function properly, they require a special GARRETT Z-Lynk wireless communication unit for seamless connectivity.
Each package comes with the headphones, a USB charging cable, and a user manual, making it easy for users to get started right away.
The MS3 Z-Lynk headphones are designed to provide passive noise isolation, allowing users to focus on the sounds generated by the metal detector without background interference. They feature padded ear cups and an adjustable headband for comfort during long treasure hunting sessions. The headphones have a long battery life, often lasting through extended detecting outings, ensuring users stay connected and informed. Many users have noted the convenience of using wireless headphones, especially in crowded or noisy environments, where traditional wired headphones might be cumbersome.
The battery
The Garrett AT Max is powered by four AA batteries, providing a maximum operational time of approximately 20 hours. This impressive battery life ensures that users can engage in extended treasure hunting sessions without frequently changing batteries.
It’s important to note that the device package does not include a power supply module. Instead, it comes with a standard USB cable, allowing users to recharge or power the device using compatible power sources. This flexibility can be especially convenient for those who prefer to charge their batteries on the go or utilize rechargeable AA batteries for even more extended use.
The choice of using AA batteries allows for easy replacement, and they are widely available, ensuring that users can quickly find replacements when needed. The AT Max’s efficient power management allows users to maximize their time in the field, focusing on their treasure hunting without interruptions.
Additionally, for optimal performance, it’s recommended to use high-quality alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries, as they can significantly enhance the overall user experience by providing consistent power levels throughout your outings.
Waterproofness
The Garrett AT Max, like its predecessor the AT Pro, is designed for full submersion in water, with a maximum depth of up to 10 feet. This waterproof feature is essential for underwater treasure hunting and ensures that the device can withstand various aquatic environments.
To achieve this level of waterproofness, both the device’s coil and control unit must be fully leakproof, including the cable entries. Users should exercise caution when plugging in the cables, ensuring they are properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
Regular maintenance is crucial; it’s recommended to periodically check the sealing elements and apply silicone grease to keep them in optimal condition. This practice helps maintain the integrity of the waterproof seal, ensuring that the AT Max continues to perform effectively during underwater explorations.
The control unit
The Garrett AT Max features a control unit that differs significantly from that of the AT Pro. While the overall design appears similar, many of the buttons have been reconfigured to enhance functionality and ease of use.
Control Layout and Functions
The mode of operation is located in the left vertical segment, while the right segment displays the target depth scale. The bottom of the screen includes indicators for battery status and sensitivity levels, while the top features the discrimination scale. In the center, a large VDI (Visual Display Indicator) number shows the detected target’s conductivity.
- IRON DISC: This button allows for the adjustment of iron discrimination. When held in conjunction with the Shift button, it can also adjust NOTCH settings.
- MODE: This button selects the operational mode (discrimination mode) and powers the device on or off when held for one second.
- IRON AUDIO: This feature detects ferrous targets, helping users avoid digging up phantom signals. It emits a tone when an iron-containing target is detected and provides additional signals of varying tones, especially useful in Pro mode.
- SENSITIVITY: Two buttons control sensitivity levels—«+» to increase and «-» to decrease sensitivity. Holding the Shift button while using this control allows users to adjust the sound volume.
- PINPOINT: This function enables precise target detection. When activated, the target depth value is displayed in the right corner of the screen.
- THRESHOLD: This setting adjusts the threshold tone, allowing users to change the background noise level while maintaining the detector’s sensitivity.
- GROUND BALANCE: The AT Max features an automatic ground balance function, with the option for manual adjustment via the NOTCH button.
- FREQ: This button enables a slight shift in the operating frequency, helping users avoid interference from high-voltage power lines or nearby metal detectors. Holding the Shift button while using FREQ also interacts with the NOTCH function to include or exclude segments of the discrimination scale.
To connect the wireless headphones, users can press both the IRON AUDIO and FREQ buttons simultaneously.
Modes of operation
The Garrett AT Max offers four distinct modes of operation: Coins, All Metal, Zero, and Custom. Each mode is designed to cater to specific detecting needs, as suggested by their names.
Modes of Operation
- Coins Mode: This setting is optimized for detecting coin-sized targets, allowing for effective identification and discrimination of valuable finds.
- All Metal Mode: In this mode, the detector picks up all types of metals, providing a constant background noise. This can help users identify a wider range of potential targets but may also lead to more signals from unwanted materials.
- Zero Mode: Similar to All Metal mode in its sensitivity, Zero mode eliminates the constant background noise, allowing for a quieter experience while still detecting all types of metals.
- Custom Mode: This mode allows users to customize settings according to their preferences, enabling tailored detection experiences based on specific target types or hunting environments.
While All Metal and Zero modes share similarities in sensitivity, the key difference lies in the presence of background noise in All Metal mode. This distinction can significantly impact user experience and target identification, allowing detectorists to choose the mode that best suits their hunting style.
Conclusions
The Garrett AT Max stands out as a versatile and advanced metal detector, well-suited for both novice and experienced detectorists. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses, along with examples of competitors in the market.
Advantages
- Wireless Headphones: The inclusion of MS3 Z-Lynk wireless headphones enhances user convenience and eliminates the hassle of tangled cords. The low latency of 14 ms ensures minimal delay, making for a seamless detecting experience.
- Multiple Operating Modes: With four distinct modes—Coins, All Metal, Zero, and Custom—users can easily adapt the detector to various hunting conditions and target types, improving overall efficiency.
- Submersible Design: The AT Max can be submerged up to 10 feet, making it an excellent choice for beach and shallow water hunting.
- Enhanced Sensitivity and Depth: The lower operating frequency of 13.6 kHz allows for better sensitivity in highly mineralized soil, improving detection capabilities in challenging environments.
- User-Friendly Control Interface: The redesigned control unit offers intuitive functions, making it easier for users to adjust settings quickly in the field.
Disadvantages
- Limited Operating Frequency Range: While the lower frequency is advantageous for certain types of hunting, it may not be as effective for detecting smaller targets compared to higher frequency detectors like the AT Gold, which operates at 18 kHz.
- Weight: Some users may find the AT Max heavier than competing models, potentially leading to fatigue during extended use.
- Price Point: The AT Max is positioned in the premium segment of the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Competitors
- Minelab Equinox 800: Known for its multi-frequency technology, the Equinox 800 offers a higher operating frequency range, making it suitable for a variety of targets. It is also submersible and comes with wireless headphones.
- Fisher F75: This model offers exceptional depth and sensitivity with customizable settings. It is lightweight and has a user-friendly interface, making it a strong competitor for those seeking a balance between performance and weight.
- Nokta Makro Simplex: A budget-friendly option that provides many features found in higher-end models, including waterproofing and wireless capabilities. The Simplex+ operates at a frequency of 12 kHz, striking a balance between sensitivity and target separation.
- Garrett Apex: This model offers multi-frequency capabilities, allowing for versatile hunting conditions. It features wireless connectivity, a lightweight design, and user-friendly controls, making it a strong alternative for those who value convenience and flexibility in their detecting experience.