Minelab Equinox metal detectors: Choose from 4 Reliable Models Today!

While the title of this review mentions only one metal detector, we will actually discuss 4 devices: the Minelab Equinox 600, 700, 800 and 900. Though these two models differ primarily in price and functionality, both offer valuable features for treasure hunters.

Having gained some experience with the Minelab Equinox 800, I am eager to share my insights and opinions about its performance. Additionally, we will clarify the specific differences between these two metal detectors, helping you determine which model best suits your treasure hunting needs.

Equinox Metal Detector: The Backstory

The first models of the Minelab Equinox metal detector were introduced to the treasure hunting community on September 16, 2017, during the Detectival 2017 festival in Oxfordshire, England. Initially embraced by amateurs after professional testing and positive reviews, the demand for this device surged significantly.

The Equinox series effectively replaced the outdated Minelab X-Terra product line. While positioned as a mid-range metal detector—falling behind the top-selling Minelab CTX 3030—it has demonstrated impressive performance that appeals to a wide audience.

Minelab seems poised to upgrade its entire product lineup. The Equinox fills the mid-market gap, while the recently announced Minelab Vanquish targets beginners. Additionally, a new top-tier metal detector, the Minelab Manticore, is expected to launch in the future.

In late 2022, the Australian company expanded the lineup with the introduction of the Equinox 700 and 900 models, continuing the legacy of the beloved “broom” detectors. This release has left many treasure hunters questioning which model to choose.

This article will compare the features, advantages, and differences among the Equinox 600, 700, 800, and 900. We will highlight what sets each model apart to help you make an informed decision based on your treasure-hunting needs and preferences. Whether you are a seasoned detectorist or just starting, understanding these differences will enhance your metal detecting experience.

Minelab Equinox 600 VS Minelab Equinox 800

There is some confusion between the Minelab Equinox 600 and Equinox 800 models, especially regarding their features. The Equinox 800 comes with Bluetooth headphones and the WM 08 module, while the Equinox 600 has wired headphones. However, both devices perform equally well when set up the same way.

The Equinox 600 uses frequencies of 5 kHz, 10 kHz, and 15 kHz, whereas the Equinox 800 also offers 20 kHz and 40 kHz. Both metal detectors operate in Multi-IQ mode, which allows for effective target detection across different modes. The Equinox 800 has a “Gold” mode that is useful for finding nuggets, but the Equinox 600 also performs well in this regard.

Additional features of the Equinox 800 include advanced settings, manual noise cancellation, and the ability to fine-tune tones and volume. The Equinox 600 has three levels of target recovery speed, while the Equinox 800 has eight.

The price of the Equinox 600 allows for savings on additional accessories like coils. Both models have high power and effectiveness in identifying the majority of targets. The main difference lies in the number of frequencies available for searching.

Minelab Equinox 700 VS Minelab Equinox 900

In 2022, Minelab released two new metal detectors—Equinox 700 and Equinox 900. Here are some key differences:

• Operating Frequencies:
  • Equinox 700: Multi, 4, 5, 10, 15 kHz
  • Equinox 900: Multi, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz
• Submersion Depth: Increased from 3 meters to 5 meters.
• Vibration Mode: Signals through the handle when a target is detected.
• Control Box Features: Added flashlight for visibility at night and underwater.
• Construction: Lightweight telescopic carbon shaft.
• Armrest: Flexible plastic with 25 placement options.
• Coil Configuration: Equinox 900 includes a 6″ and an 11″ DD coil with protectors.

Minelab aims to enhance its popular Equinox line, addressing previous shortcomings. The Equinox 800 features a Wi-Fi module for wireless headphones, while the 900 includes a smaller sniper coil.

Differences:

• The Equinox 900 has a more convenient telescopic shaft, a higher sensitivity rating (28 vs. 25 for the 800), and a red backlight. It also improves waterproofing and includes features like a flashlight and vibration mode.

Comparison of Minelab Equinox 600, Equinox 700, Equinox 800, and Equinox 900

Feature	Equinox 600	Equinox 700	Equinox 800	Equinox 900
Release Year	2018	2022	2018	2022
Application	Coin, Relic, Jewellery & Beach	Coin, Relic, Jewellery & Beach	Coin, Relic, Jewellery & Beach	Coin, Relic, Jewellery & Beach
Technology	Multi-IQ	Multi-IQ	Multi-IQ	Multi-IQ
Detect Modes	Park, Field, Beach	Park, Field, Beach	Park, Field, Beach, Gold	Park, Field, Beach, Gold
Custom Search Profiles	6 (2 per Detect Mode)	6 (2 per Detect Mode)	8 (2 per Detect Mode)	8 (2 per Detect Mode)
User Profile Button	No	No	Yes	Yes
Waterproof	Waterproof to 3 m (10-feet)	Waterproof to 5 m (16 ft) IP68	Waterproof to 3 m (10-feet)	Waterproof to 5 m (16 ft) IP68
Frequency	Multi, 5, 10, 15	Multi, 4, 5, 10, 15	Multi, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40	Multi, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40
Coil (Standard)	11-inch Double-D Smart coil with skidplate (waterproof to 3m/10′)	EQX11 11″ Double-D coil with skid plate	11-inch Double-D Smart coil with skidplate (waterproof to 3m/10′)	EQX11 11″ Double-D coil with skid plate, EQX06 6″ Coil with skid plate
Audio Output	In-built loudspeaker • 3.5mm (1/8″) headphones (included) • Bluetooth compatible • WM 08 Wi-Stream compatible	In-built loudspeaker, Wired 3.5 mm (1/8″) headphones, Wireless headphones	In-built loudspeaker • 3.5mm (1/8″) headphones (included) • Bluetooth compatible • WM 08 Wi-Stream compatible	In-built loudspeaker, Wired 3.5 mm (1/8″) headphones, Wireless headphones
Headphones Supplied	Wired 3.5 mm (1/8″) headphones (non-waterproof)	Minelab ML 85 Low Latency wireless headphones	Bluetooth and aptX™ Low Latency headphones (non-waterproof)	Minelab ML 85 Low Latency wireless headphones
Visual Display	Monochrome LCD with backlight (On, Off)	Monochrome LCD with backlight (Off, High, Low)	Monochrome LCD with backlight (Low, Medium, High, Off)	Monochrome LCD with backlight (Low, Medium, High, Off)
Backlight	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
USB Connectivity	Yes (Windows and OSX)	Yes (Windows and OSX)	Yes (Windows and OSX)	Yes (Windows and OSX)
Depth Indication	5 levels	5 levels	5 levels	5 levels
Detect Modes	Park, Beach, Field	Park, Beach, Field, Gold	Park, Beach, Field, Gold	Park, Beach, Field, Gold, Cache
Discrimination	50 segment	119 segment	50 segment	119 segment
Audio Tone	1, 2, 5, 50	1,2, 5, All Tones (At), Depth (dP)	1, 2, 5, 50	1,2, 5, All Tones (At), Depth (dP)
Ground Balance	Auto | Manual	Auto, Manual, Tracking	Auto | Manual	Auto, Manual, Tracking
Pinpoint	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Sensitivity	1–25	1–25	1–25	1–28
Noise Cancel	Auto	Auto (19 Channels)	Auto, Manual (-9 to 9)	Auto (19 Channels), Manual
Target Identification	50 ID’s | Ferrous: -9 to 0 | Non-ferrous: 1 to 40	119 IDs | Ferrous: -19 to 0 I Non-ferrous: 1 to 99	50 ID’s | Ferrous: -9 to 0 | Non-ferrous: 1 to 40	119 IDs | Ferrous: -19 to 0 I Non-ferrous: 1 to 99
Target Tones	1, 2, 5, 50	1,2, 5, All Tones (At), Depth (dP)	1, 2, 5, 50	1,2, 5, All Tones (At), Depth (dP)
Tone Break	Ferrous	Ferrous (T1)	Ferrous | Non-ferrous	Ferrous, Non-ferrous (t1, t2, t3, t4)
Tone Pitch	Ferrous	Tone 1 adjustable: 0 to 25	Ferrous | Non-ferrous	All tones adjustable: 0 to 25
Tone Volume	Ferrous	Tone 1 adjustable: 0 to 25	Ferrous | Non-ferrous	All tones adjustable: 0 to 25
Threshold Level	0–25	0–25	0–25	0–25
Threshold Pitch	Fixed	Fixed	0–25	0–25
Target Volume	0–25	0–25	0–25	0–25
Discrimination Segments	50	119	50	119
Recovery Speed	No	1 to 3	No	1 to 8
Iron Bias	No	No	No	0 to 9
Flashlight	No	On, Off	No	On, Off
Vibration	No	On, Off	No	On, Off per Tone Region
Battery	In-built rechargeable Lithium-ion battery	3.7V/5100 mAh Internal Lithium-lon battery	In-built rechargeable Lithium-ion battery	3.7V/5100 mAh Internal Lithium-lon battery
Weight	1.34 kg (2.96 lbs)	1.27 kg (2.8 lbs)	1.34 kg (2.96 lbs)	1.27 kg (2.8 lbs)
Length	1440 mm (56.7″)	Collapsed: 61 cm (24 in) – Extended: 144 cm (56.7 in)	1440 mm (56.7″)	Collapsed: 61 cm (24 in) – Extended: 144 cm (56.7 in)
Additional Included Accessories	USB Charging cable (1.5A), Multi Language Screen protectors	Getting Started Guide, Screen Protector (English), Charging Cable	USB Charging cable (1.5A), Multi Language Screen protectors	Getting Started Guide, Screen Protector (English), Charging Cable

Last update on 2024-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Last update on 2024-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Last update on 2024-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Last update on 2024-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Operation frequencies

In June 2020, the Minelab Equinox 600 and Minelab Equinox 800 metal detectors received a significant firmware update, version 3.0. The most notable change was the addition of a single 4 kHz operating frequency, designed to enhance the detection of large, deep targets. Additionally, minor adjustments were made to improve the devices’ performance stability, while the rest of the settings remained unchanged.

The Equinox 800 offers a broader range of operating frequencies, including 5, 10, 15, 20, and 40 kHz, along with Multi-IQ technology, which allows for the simultaneous use of multiple frequencies. In contrast, the Equinox 600 operates at 5, 10, and 15 kHz, also utilizing Multi-IQ.

Despite the Equinox 800’s wider frequency range, it’s important to note that both devices perform similarly when used for beach hunting. For optimal performance in beach and underwater environments, users should rely primarily on the Multi-IQ mode. Using the 20 or 40 kHz operating frequencies may result in frequent phantom signals, which can disrupt the detecting experience.

Gold mode

This is an additional search program of Minelab Equinox 800, it uses 20 and 40 kHz frequencies, which Equinox 600 doesn’t have.

This mode is aimed to increase the search productivity during small gold nuggets hunting in mineralized soils.

This mode is also useful for those who go beach hunting as well as gold nuggets hunting. Though, not on all beaches the mode would work properly.

A backlit display

In the earlier model you could only turn it on and off, but the older version of the device allows adjusting it. In general, this is a useful thing, though not that crucial.

Noise Cancel

Both metal detectors have automatic noise suppressing system, the 800 model also has the ability to adjust it manually.

If you go treasure hunting in the areas with high level of electric noise or close to other metal detectors, this function will be rather helpful.

Target Tones

This is an important characteristic, especially for those who use tone response from targets during their treasure hunting process, additionally to using VDI. Minelab Equinox 800 has wider possibilities for target tone adjustment.

Equinox 600 has a wide range of volume and tone adjustment, including modes of 1, 2, 5 and 50 tones.

But the 800 model allows you doing almost everything you want with its tone settings. And this makes it a serious advantage if compared to the earlier model.

The point where the tone for ferrous metal transforms into the tone for non-ferrous metal (Tone Break), can be shifted as well as the volume of ferrous metal (Tone Volume) can be adjusted.

Equinox 800 has the ability to shift the tone of non-ferrous metal targets and change their tone, which is quite handy for those who prefer treasure hunting basing on targets tone response.

Reactivity (target response)

If there are two targets nearby and one of them is from ferrous metal and the other is a non-ferrous one, which of them will your detector see?

As a rule, this is the larger one and in 90% of cases this is a ferrous metal target.

In Equinox you can adjust the target response. Low target response level allows hunting for targets located deep under ground, but at that the level of target distinguishing will be low.

High target response allows to distinguish targets perfectly, but at that you are loosing the search depth.

As for me this is a crucial parameter, since quite often I go treasure hunting in the areas covered with iron rubbish. High target response allows to find what the rest have missed.

And this is when the difference between 800 and 600 shows. The earlier model has 3 target response levels and the new model has 8 of them.

Quick mode switching

Minelab Equinox 800 has a special button to switch to the user’s search mode.

And this is a great thing! For example, I hear the signal, but I’m not sure that it’s worth digging. I just need to push the button once and I’m already working in a different mode, which I use for more precise detecting, but it also sends a lot of phantom signals.

Threshold Pitch

As for the threshold pitch adjustment – Equinox 600 has a threshold pitch function, but it can’t be adjusted. I seldom use this function, but it may be important for someone else.

The device package contents

Headphones

Equinox 800 has wireless headphones in its set. Actually, they are wired ones, but with a unit to plug in a wireless adapter.

The above mentioned makes the headphones not the best decision in this case. For example, XP Deus has really wireless ones.

On the other hand, you can connect them to your smartphone and receive calls while treasure hunting.

But the main important thing about headphones is, that they don’t have any delay in target signal receiving.

I should mention, that the headphones do their job quite well. Through all my treasure hunting experience with this device, I’ve never noticed any delayed signals.

Manuals

The device has a brief multi-language manual on how to start to work with this metal detector. It is very convenient to take it with you.

Stickers

There is a screen protector for the device control unit. I do recommend using it, since the screen gets scratched easily.

Technical characteristics

The metal detector weight is 1.34 kg (2.96 lbs), length is 1440 mm (56.7″). As for the standard functions required for any professional metal detector, all models have a pinpointer, ground balance and a threshold function.

Minelab Equinox 800/600 is an amphibian metal detector. It is aimed for treasure hunting both on the ground and under water (up to 3 meters deep).

Even if you are not going to go underwater treasure hunting, such a possibility will be rather significant, since the device also won’t be affected neither by rain, nor by dew.

Design

The device has a straight shaft with an accumulator battery in its handle. An advantage of such a technical decision is the device small size, as for disadvantages – the device balance is not that good in this case.

Frankly speaking, after using XP Deus (I’m not tired even after 8 hours of metal detecting), Minelab Equinox 800 seemed rather heavy to me and my hand got rather tired.

After some time spend with Equinox it won’t be that noticeable, but everything is comparative…

The device armrest appeared too wide to me, though my hand is quite large. Yet, I won’t call this issue a disadvantage, since it was in summer.

I’ve had a similar experience with Nokta Impact, where the armrest was also too wide for my hand. And it was quite annoying till the autumn came and I started wearing warm clothes.

This is when it turned out that my hand felt quite comfortable in the armrest and it it was more narrow, I’d feel some discomfort.

Menu

The device menu is quite simple and easy to remember, especially in the process of continuous changes of characteristics during the treasure hunting to check the efficiency of these or those settings.

Equinox 800 has 4 search modes — Park, Field, Beach, Gold and each of them has two additional sub-modes. Therefore, all in all the device has 8 search modes.

You can switch between them by means of just one button, which is very convenient, no other additional actions are required.

As we’ve already mentioned, only Equinox 800 has this feature that enables the user to switch to the user’s search mode by just pushing one button.

When using Equinox 600 this requires pushing the button several times.

Park mode

This mode is aimed to go treasure hunting in areas with lots of litter, especially with modern one. Also it is recommended to use the mode to learn to work with the metal detector, for example, if you are a newbie in treasure hunting.

Field mode

This is the most multi-purpose mode. It is recommended go hunting for relics and ancient coins using it.

Beach mode

This mode is made for beach hunting. Its main difference from the rest is that it has more sensitive ground balance function – salty sand, wet sand and surf zone (wet sand + salt).

Also this mode is used for underwater treasure hunting. It has two sub-modes – wet/dry sand and under water/shallow water.

Gold mode

This is the mode for prospecting gold nuggets with precise ground balance function. It has two sub-modes – normal and heavy soil.

EQUINOX 800 has two modes which EQUINOX 600 doesn’t have. This is «Gold 1» and «Gold 2».

These two modes are identical, but for the default settings. «Gold 1» has recovery speed set 6 by default and “Gold 2” has this parameter equal to 4.

Recommendations as for the device settings and choosing the search mode

It has become a tradition, that all owners of various devices tend to make the most of them, especially if this device costs like one of Equinox models!

And this is where most of mistakes are made.

Since, quite often people who are not good at the process physics use such settings and adjust the device so, that it demonstrates maximal sensitivity in an air test, but this is the largest mistake of all the beginners and sometimes of experienced treasure hunters.

Let me emphasis, that we are going to discuss only treasure hunting on the ground without discussing aspects of beach hunting, since this is completely different topic.

Through the example of Equinox we know that the highest search depth is achieved when using the first two speeds of the device and the most sensitive search modes for all types of targets are the sub-modes (Park2/Field2).

But not everyone knows that these speeds and these programs can’t be used for all types of search conditions.

Due to significant impact of high frequencies when treasure hunting on wet soils, the sub-modes demonstrate significantly worse productivity, than the main modes of the device.

From my own experience I know, that it’s better to use the main search modes of the device on wet black soil (I prefer using Park1).

Also, I’d like to say, that the detection precision is influenced not only by the selected search mode, but by the speed settings as well.

For the speed from “1” to “3”, (Park1) I heard some tone of ‘ferrous’ target at the end of wave above the coin. At that ІВ parameter on my device is always set to “0”.

When reducing the amplification only the tone of target response changed. However, when selecting speed “4” I received a clear signal without essential loss of search depth.

In conclusion I’d say the following:

1. It’s not worth using sub-modes on wet soils, since this may cause the device ‘blindness’ and phantom signals occurrence.

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2. Sub-modes can make the device more sensitive to small and low conductivity targets on dry and light-textured soils. Therefore, it’s better to select other modes to ensure comfortable metal detecting process.

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3. Properly selected speed parameter also may significantly influence on targets identification.

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4. Increasing of the speed parameter won’t necessary have negative impact on the search depth, however, as I mentioned above, it may improve target identification process (this is absolutely true for hard soils, since it’d be different for light-textured soils).

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5. In case of complicated search conditions the main search modes of the device perfectly work for small and low conductivity targets (this was experimentally tested).

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6. I’d recommend to always select search modes and settings according to the specific location and targets, by burying the target to the depth limit.

Conclusions

This versatile metal detector is designed for multiple environments, including land, beach, and underwater use. Its features are well-suited for most treasure hunters, with pre-set modes likely sufficient for the majority of users.

As a true amphibian metal detector, I’ve tested it in underwater conditions. After three hours submerged, the device functioned perfectly, showing no signs of water ingress or corrosion. This reliability is crucial for those engaging in underwater treasure hunting.

The device is powered by rechargeable batteries, which are a significant advantage. They not only save time and resources but also allow for charging during use. I found that after two consecutive outings, the battery remained robust; even after nearly 12 hours of detecting—both day and night—only one line was missing from the battery indicator.

One of the device’s innovative features is its charging mechanism, which employs a magnetic connection rather than a traditional plug. This design enhances convenience and reliability, addressing common concerns potential buyers might have.

In terms of detection characteristics, the device performs admirably. While it may not match the XP Deus in locating small targets, its discrimination functionality is superior, helping to filter out unwanted signals.

Another notable advantage of the Equinox is its noise suppression capability. This feature protects the device from interference caused by other metal detectors and electrical sources. I discovered some of my best finds in areas with significant electrical noise, highlighting its effectiveness.

However, I did encounter a few drawbacks. The screen glass scratches easily, so using the included screen protector immediately is essential. Additionally, after transitioning from the XP Deus and XP Deus 2, I found the presence of wires somewhat cumbersome and distracting.

Lastly, the shaft design and balance of the device could be improved, particularly when compared to the XP Deus. Despite these issues, the overall performance of the Equinox is commendable, making it a valuable tool for both novice and experienced detectorists.