Minelab Manticore vs CTX 3030 The Showdown - Real Digs

Here is a very fair comparison with REAL DIGS for the Minelab Manticore and Minelab CTX 3030. This was non-trashy site but everything settles deep due to flooding etc. One machine comes out on top IMO. My final thoughts will be at the very end of the video. Enjoy.
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Gear I've owned, tested, and recommend:
(NEW) Minelab Manticore (new): shrsl.com/3t753
Minelab Metal Detectors:
Minelab GPX 5000: shrsl.com/3t72z
Minelab GPX 6000: shrsl.com/3vhxg
(NEW) Minelab Equinox 900: shrsl.com/3vhxo
(NEW) Minelab Equinox 700: shrsl.com/3vhxn
Minelab Equinox 800: shrsl.com/3t734
Minelab Equinox 600: shrsl.com/3t73l
Minelab CTX 3030: shrsl.com/3p3ps
Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro Pack: shrsl.com/3t74r
Minelab Vanquish 440: shrsl.com/3t74v
Minelab Excalibur II (beach and underwater): shrsl.com/3t74z
Minelab Equinox Carbon Fiber Shafts:
Detect-ED Red Carbon Fiber shaft: amzn.to/3CZXvUJ
Detect-ED Black Carbon Fiber shaft: amzn.to/3ldxGKZ
Nokta Makro Metal Detectors
Nokta Makro Legend: shrsl.com/3t75o
Nokta Makro Simplex: shrsl.com/3t75c
Garrett Metal Detectors
Garrett (New) Axiom (Gold Detector): shrsl.com/3t74f
XP Metal Detectors
XP Deus (Original) w/9" X35 Coil: shrsl.com/3t762
XP Deus (Original Lite) w/9" X35 Coil: shrsl.com/3t76c
XP Deus 2 : shrsl.com/3t5ud
XP Deus 2 WS6 Master: shrsl.com/3t5u7
Pinpointers:
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Z-Lynk: amzn.to/3EYMeZ4
XP MI6: amzn.to/3EyV8Lt
XP MI4: amzn.to/3U9JMmR
Shovels:
Stuline 36" T-Handle: shrsl.com/3t5um
Backpacks:
XP Backpack 280: amzn.to/3tTdVMR
Detecting How-to Books by Andy Sabisch:
Minelab Equinox Handbook: shrsl.com/33vw0
The Simplex Handbook: shrsl.com/3t73n
The XP Deus Metal Detector Handbook: shrsl.com/3t73x
Applications that help me w/KZbin
Canva for Thumbnails: canva.pxf.io/LddrV
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Thank You!
The Mental Metal Channel
/ @mentalmetal
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[@bells1054]

Nice video Scott! Thanks for sharing and the work you do.

[@MentalMetal]

You bet

[@Keepinyoungdiggin]

As an owner of a CTX I can’t see enough of an improvement to justify investing the Manticore at this time. If I was a new buyer that opinion would change. I still like the GPS AND XChange2 .

[@JoeInMemphis]

THIS!!! I loved the GPS and Xchange2. I use a Garmin attached to the Deus 2 now to do my find logging and manually enter the data into Xchange2, I do wish Minelab would come out with a replacement for the CTX.

[@scarsprospecting]

The manticore with the 2d id picture is worth the extra money !

[@tpcomparison]

@@scarsprospecting you know thats standard at the ctx for 10 years? More freq range and second ID…

[@bthom68]

It would depend where you hunt, my manticore let's me go where the ctx can't. Messy poluted areas, the manticore leaves me gobsmacked how it can pick through. Ctx is better on deep bigger targets, really deep stuff. But we don't have the 15 inch for the manticore yet... That.. will be interesting.

[@Bootyhunter1971]

Ctx is slower processor and heavy. The faster processor and light weight are definete upgrades. There are many logging apps for phones that replace the gps gimmick on the ctx.

[@IDigHistoryInIowa]

Great video. I’ve used the etrac for 15 years and it’s just like the ctx. Was made shortly after the etrac to be waterproof basically. Same coin magnet. If you walk around the iron with the ctx it should Null more. Both the etrac and ctx may sound good one direction but if you walk around it then you’ll hear the iron null. Think I might stick with my etrac. It was $1500 15 years ago.

[@MentalMetal]

Thanks for the info!

[@jerrytalley802]

I really like the large display and clear description on the screen. I never got used to the Nox menu and now the Legend menu. Just struggle with them for some reason? I guess it’s because you have to memorize what each little icon means, then the sub menus under each one?

[@christianwelder]

Love your show and it helps me alot so thanks. Now that the update for the Manticore is out, it would be interesting to see the CTX330 and The Manticore test again. I think with the update it changes things a bit. Thanks Glenn AKA Ontario Heritage Hunter

[@MentalMetal]

Thank you I appreciate that. Unfortunately, I no longer have the CTX but no matter what I would show the die hard CTX 3030 owners would never concede and just give me a bunch of crap again LOL, They are loyal which I can appreciate.

[@oldArmyVet]

I really like having the ferrous and non ferrous numbers on the etrac and 3030. They show you so much Plus you can decipher from clad and silver coins. Why minlab hasn't incorporated that in the newer machines is beyond me

[@MentalMetal]

Totally agree I wish they would have gone back to the 2 number IDs.

[@Bootyhunter1971]

Because that was a property of FBS and FBS 2, Multi IQ is a totally different process

[@jamiedigsit5312]

Thanks for the review!! I've been watching quite a few side by sides on the Manticore, It only makes me like the 800 even more. To tell you I have not seen any great depth improvements in the dirt (maybe on the beach). Depth is something most people strive for and I would rather have Better discrimination. All the fancy screen stuff is a way to not have control of your machine. Minelab has a hard time with iron next to a good target, But if you pull out of multi and try single freq. you'll have a better chance. I have had the 800 for about 2 years and I almost never run multi anymore. I find that 10khz on the 800 is near the king of freq's. I'm assuming the Manticore can run single Freq. So maybe you can do a video of it in single vs multi to see depth improvements or not. Also running low recovery speed will give you great depth on most machines.I really like your content, you seem to really keep it honest. Also I'm a south eastern PA detector, red clay and iron goodness. Maybe we can cross paths and share some info.

[@MentalMetal]

Great advice thanks Jamie.

[@vonborgestad]

I know I loose some depth on the ctx3030 with Auto sens +3, but I use auto sens if there's more trash in the ground. If I use manual sens 24-27 I get great depth and a pretty stable ctx3030

[@Windsurfingaddict]

From what I see here and other videos the Manticore is still calling iron good targets more so than CTX and other machines, still waiting for someone’s work around or an update to fix it, thanks for comparison 🥳🥳

[@MentalMetal]

Thanks for the info

[@huntinquincy4238]

I’ve had and used the manticore a lot in the last month, I’ve actually found that I’ve dug very little iron. I was worried about this after watching videos where they seemed to dig so much iron that sounded great but personally iron does have its own nuance that I can hear vs the sound of a good ferris target. Just my experience so far, check out my TikTok and you’ll see it’s done very well for me.

[@rogerfarren9946]

@@huntinquincy4238 Investigating a hit a little bit before digging works wonders.

[@brettgas2787]

Well said the ctx seen them as what they was the mani would have you digging crap all day how you can say the ctx came second lol

[@ohiofredl]

Thanks for vid.I. keep hearing about new ctx 3030 coming out in spring.

[@MentalMetal]

I have no insight into that claim.

[@Rodneysmallengine]

Video I’ve been waiting for. Thanks.

[@MentalMetal]

No problem!

[@iggie8144]

The CTX will not always make a tone for a coin in the ground coin mode you are using. It is very clear about this in the manual. If I use this mode I will reference the display anytime the threshold breaks and the see if target trace builds in a acceptable area regardless of any sound at all. If iron nails are above this will almost always happen.

[@DigginDuo]

This makes me wanna pull my CTX out again. Great video

[@MentalMetal]

Go for it!

[@ingeludvigsen7849]

Thanks for your opinion. I do also have both machines. But just got the manticore . Still learning this machine. But as you mentioned. Manticore is more fast. But the CTX is as you say , when you detecting a coin. You do really know what you will get. But anyway. Manticore is just released. Probably updated software soon.

[@MentalMetal]

Use the Manticore long enough and you won't be using the CTX much longer IMO.

[@leroyg24]

CTX imo proven still....

[@paulandresen8671]

Quite the puttanesca of targets. CTX seemed to ID a bit better. Manicore called one of the iron targets good and the CTX didn't. Thanks for the video, I would like to see more like this.

[@PursueTheUnknown]

I own a Manticore, CTX, Deus 2, Legend, Sovereign, CZ21, Vanquish, plus a few PIs. I have no brand favorites, I use what performs best. CTX is the best performer out of all of my VLF machines, with the Sovereign a close second. I'll take rock solid target ID over a tiny bit of extra sensitivity to low conductors any day. The Deus 2, Legend, and the Manticore give good hits on Iron constantly, huge fatal flaw. What's worse, the Manticore gives iron tones on deep non-ferrous targets... which the Legend and Deus 2 don't do. These new machines are trying to eek out every bit of sensitivity, but are becoming unstable with the target ID in the process. If I can't trust the target ID, I'll just use a PI (I'm a beach hunter) and get 3-4 inches more depth. I get it, you want to like the Manticore... but the CTX won your comparison by a mile. IDing iron correctly is the simplest thing you expect of a VLF metal detector, and the Manticore doesn't do it accurately.

[@yomismo5711]

Hi! then... for you is the Minelab CTX 3030 the king VLFs detector, right?. Which PI metal detectors could you recommend me, please?. Gracias!

[@rohanmccracken8257]

The manticore does do it accurately, you just haven't learnt the machine yet

[@Findingwithfrequency]

I tend to disagree with you on CTX thing I'm a CTX user it clearly showed the iron targets it's a combination between the sound and the Target ID but even in the sound it was letting you know it was iron you had to actually make the coil make the sound that you were looking for if you were just walking in detecting that scenario would have not happened the manticores been showing it has some iron falsing issues

[@MentalMetal]

Its ok to disagree. I didn't expect everyone to agree.

[@ChristyLand-gt3bz]

SOLD my 3030 Manticore is # 1

[@silverpro8356]

@@ChristyLand-gt3bz It cant compete with the ctx3030 its still the king for finding targets.

[@user-ck8kz7zg4o]

For all.minelab multifrequency machine is start from ctx 3030.. And ctx also has all target separation... Manticore use ferrous coin Ctx had it And for sure ctx can dig more in salt water....😂

[@ChristyLand-gt3bz]

SOLD my 3030 after 8 years, and now its the Manticore #1so light and finding deeper targets , Florida beach..

[@MentalMetal]

Awesome congrats!

[@Z06Fred]

Great video. CTX is my go to detector on land. It's a great machine but heavy and in my case its water proof days are long gone. I really didn't like seeing the Manticore giving that sweet tone right on the payline for the nail in the first dig. All the same I'll likely pick one up for water detecting....

[@metaldetectorinvietnam]

Thanks For your review .

[@MentalMetal]

My pleasure

[@charlieschemmel122]

Nice comparison thanks!!!!!

[@MentalMetal]

No problem!

[@gmbh24]

Thnx for the informative video 👍🏼

[@MentalMetal]

No problem thank you!

[@DCDetector]

Thanks for the video. My 2 cents is I liked the CTXs response. I felt it was a bit more accurate on that first iron the Manticore called good, and I like the tone of the CTX better than the Manticore.

[@sparkyarch77]

Manticore looks like a really nice machine all updated but I do like how the CTX can see that iron a little better.

[@MentalMetal]

For what its worth, you can configure the sound of Manticore to make it sound as sweet as you want.

[@jimzilladetecting]

I have both machines and love them both for different reasons. On the manticore the iron targets will break up the more you sweep over them in the same direction. I think this site is fill. The modern targets are so deep. Have you found anything old here?

[@Pichiheinze]

Gracias por el video! Estaba por cambiar mi equinox 800 por el ctx, pero voy a esperar el manticore!!!! Saludos desde argentina!

[@Deus-Too]

Scott, another great video, thanks. I’m on a list to receive my manticore, but I have one question for you. I’ve seen a few posted comments and photos on several sites showing potential sealant issues with the manticore control box. Do you have any concerns about this, or any concerns about the manticore being 100% Waterproof?

[@MentalMetal]

Nothing heard or seen yet Doug. I'm still good.

[@pigeonbloodruby5330]

What forum has the photos and comments? Tks!

[@donaldphelps536]

Good video, the comparison was pretty good and I agree with your findings. I have been trying to put together a coin program for the manticore that is similar to what I had with the equinox. I just need to get one so I can try it out. I can’t believe how long it is taking Minelab to get them out to us.

[@MentalMetal]

Try this one, but use 2 tones regional as your audio setup. You will love it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJPEfJRnjMmXbLs

[@jaystrongbow6111]

I'm jealous you can dig holes in the ground man! We finally froze over bigtime, but I can dig vicariously through you Scott. Great vid Bro!

[@MentalMetal]

Thanks 👍 I got you covered my friend.

[@kostastitanas3679]

Another great video, I want to buy one of those two, so this is very helpful video, it will be great if You can do this compariton again Greetings from Greece

[@MentalMetal]

Coming soon!

[@paulcoenen7918]

A bit of an old video but im wondering why you're not double checking the targets at 90 degrees as to eliminate most iron falsing. Also with the CTX 3030 you can switch to all metal and see if the signal goes past 90 it is most certainly a pointed iron object. Im just wondering if the 90 degree turn would eliminate most your falsing with the Manticore

[@OP-Taylor]

Excellent video, great honest opinion on the performance of the two machines. I kinda feel like after watching many videos (not owning either machine), that the manticore has taken all of the what the CTX had to offer and refined it that is why they are so close on many things. The manticore is only going to get better as people really learn the machine and software refinements continue.

[@MentalMetal]

I knew this video would be 50-50 haha

[@JoeInMemphis]

@@MentalMetal I hope they refine it better than they did the CTX, all we got in 10 years was a check box for salt water...

[@robertbray7855]

Great videos would like to see you do a comparison with manticore new upgrade

[@otishinson9556]

Good video thanks

[@MentalMetal]

Thank you!

[@lewis1141951]

Looks like the Manticore is still having trouble with the iron coming up as a good target.

[@MentalMetal]

I don't know if I agree I think the long you use it you can start figuring the good from bad targets pretty easy.

[@lionsdejudah]

Depth depth depth!!! Who cares about target separation, if the area is OLD I dig every repeatable deep target, the last old park I hunted I was pulling out some nice finds averaging 13-14” deep. I was using the CTX 17” coil tho.

[@lionsdejudah]

Right on brother!

[@freedomdiggersmetaldetecti8964]

Decent comparison. I think the CTX is still the king of Target identification the Manticore is the clear winner in many other categories.

[@MentalMetal]

I would 90% agree with that statement. You have to go real slow with the CTX.

[@chelaonda8810]

In welchen Kategorien?

[@tomtripptree5079]

I was wondering if you could tell me. Does the manticore have a protective screen saver out of the box. Or do you have to put one on

[@fredstiehr5358]

Has blue file on it From factory they give you 3 other screen covers to put on yourself

[@Thesummerof2024.]

It has a cover on that you take of then put a proper one that’s provided in the box with the manticore

[@freedomdiggersmetaldetecti8964]

You have to put it on. They come with quite a few of them though in case you have a hard time getting it on just right. It took me two tries

[@dxradio33]

My Manticore came with a protective film already installed on the machine. In addition, it came with 4 spare screen protectors.

[@Sky1]

I metal detected for over a year with a Minelab Safari, i never was able to master it, switched to a T2 and found gold and silver

[@charlesoutdoors2424]

I watched halfway through and that was all I needed to see the Manticore was getting fooled by deep iron where the CTX 3030 wasn't. You had to get the CTX swing just right to get the high tones but it still showed it wasn't solid on the graph. The Whites Spectrum is the CTX's Great Grandpa lol. I would love to see how the Nox 700 and 900 does against the CTX 3030.

[@dusantomic9983]

Hi, do you happen to have an access to Equinox 900? if you do, it would be great if you could do a comparison with Manticore video please.

[@MentalMetal]

Yeah i do maybe down the road. It takes a lot of time to do these type of videos.

[@dusantomic9983]

@@MentalMetal That would be fantastic, thanks! I greatly appreciate your effort and look forward to it. No pressure :)

[@markkus1134]

I tell You one thing I was out on a river hunt where I have pulled almost 100 silver coins out of a small area me and two other friends. I went back this week with my new 900 and pulled 8 more 7 dimes one seated and a walker half these new detectors separate much better I was getting new signals all over spots we covered with our 800’s. I’ve never used a CTX way too heavy

[@MentalMetal]

The 900 is a significant upgrade to the 800. No doubt.

[@jerrytalley802]

Did you have deep on, on the CTX? It’s so hard because no two machines have the same settings. That first nail sounded good on the manticore, no thanks, after 49 years of detecting, no way I’m digging constant iron/nails. This is the Achilles heel Calabash has been talking about from the beginning, thanks

[@MentalMetal]

Jerry appreciate the comment. I dig nails with all my other machines Deus 2 included but I bet using your machines for 49 years you know what to dig and not to dig. This machine is no different. Once you start using it a lot you can pick out the good and the bad. Everyone gets in an uproar when NO ONE who is showing these videos is an expert on the Manticore. You need at least 100 hours or more before you can really make a good call. I'm getting to the point now where I can determine about 80% of time a good from bad target.

[@jerrytalley802]

Hey MM, yes, all machines over the years had a few targets that fool them all, a bent civil war nail, a deep, wet, civil war nail that’s leeching into the ground for example. So if you’re digging IFFY SIGNALS, civil war relic hunting, you’ll get a few nails. What I’m talking about is when most/all nails give a good sound, then you need some kind of tricks, or 100 hours or 1,000 hours to determine to dig or not. For me, not acceptable, sorry. Before Tesoro came out with the Tejon, they were known for excellent discrimination in iron, but the one I had, even on foil rejection it was banging a good signal on cut nails in a place I’ve hunted since 1973, with no issues. One hunt I dug a double handful of nails, that cured me and the Tejon found a new home. The Minelab Quattro had a similar defect. When introduced, if you swept the coil and hit a nail first but kept the coil swinging, then hit a gold ring, it would skip the good target and stay locked on to the nail. We told Minelab and it seems they changed something like putting lipstick on a pig. I think you had to select the fast option or? Coming from using Explorers for years, this was ridiculous. Then the 3030 came out, I jumped on it, cost me 4 days of beach hunting and hotels, it went crazy in salt water. HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE FROM A COMPANY THAT INVENTED/PERFECTED BBS, FBS, FBS2, ETC. Now it seems the Manticore has similar issues, I’m rooting for them to fix it. I’m rooting for them to have an awesome, deep, fast, NON LEAKING, Water machine.

[@MentalMetal]

I think we are all rooting for the same thing, thanks for your insight. Much appreciated.

[@nunyabidness1972]

I think that extra low frequency they added to these last new detectors from Minelab are what's giving everybody fits in iron. It would be nice if we could choose what frequencies we wanted to use in our own custom multi-frequency programs too. As a crutch, some people have been double checking a questionable target with a higher mono frequency to keep the Multi-Q honest. I'm hoping Minelab can correct this with an update, but who knows when that might be. Just them getting the Manticores shipped to dealers and customers has turned into a months-long fiasco. If I was still waiting on a detector I had paid for months ago, I would be getting pretty upset by now, and those people are............

[@MentalMetal]

We'll have to wait and see what they do.

[@Lockdown454]

I never pre buy always wait it out

[@dbbsharkey]

To save a programe right behind the base programme ie,,all terrain high conductors,,you could set up a preferred setting over another search mode like beach and flick between the two.

[@MentalMetal]

You could but now its a different setup. I would really like to test my high conductors program against the default high conductors profile but you can't and that is a downer IMO.

[@dbbsharkey]

@@MentalMetal I mean replicate the high conductors stock program exactly & then add your discrimination into it. Or would there be a hidden configuration making it not exactly the same as stock high conductors? X

[@aussieknowhow]

Is it possible if you went out with the CTX3030 first it could have found targets the Mantacore couldn't?

[@MentalMetal]

I doubt it.

[@SandyToesDetecting]

The ctx3030 still rocks. Use it in the sea several times a week. goto detector.

[@iggie8144]

I still use the CTX for beach hunting. You may wait check out this battery leak kit I have to keep it dry. m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZnRnI2ulrOSfJY&pp=ygUTQ3R4IDMwMzAgd2F0ZXIgc2VhbA%3D%3D

[@MrNienh]

I think the manticore is an updated etrac. The CTX identified iron better than the manticore. I think you will dig more iffy targets with the manticore.

[@MentalMetal]

Perhaps but I won't break my arm carrying it around :-)

[@exploracionesconluis102]

@@MentalMetal but you will break your back with so much digging picking up trash with manticore and with ctx no

[@vonborgestad]

@@MentalMetal If you get the armrest in the right position on the CTX3030, the machine will balance very good and you won't get fatigue in your arm. If you have a unbalanced ctx3030 you will have a very short hunt with that machine. My shoulder tends to get a bit unhappy after 3-4 hours with the CTX3030. I often have more fatigue in my arm using the Legend with the 11" coil, but I hope that the LG30 will be give that machine some better balance. For beach hunts I take with me the ctx3030 and the Legend. Both are getting targets other detectorists are missing, but I swing both my machines pretty slow when I'm detecting....

[@masitaatisam3679]

@@vonborgestad Ctx indeed great machine, Target id is very very good. Not like anything else i used before.. in exchange we must carry a little weight , also i think it is a mindset , i like to tell myself that i go detecting and train the arms a bit .. That take a way a bit of the weight

[@MadMaxSURVIVAL9923]

O​@@masitaatisam3679

[@thekeystonechronicler9147]

I wonder how many Manticores are on back order? I placed my order in early December and I am eager to hit the ground running. Anyone know the Minelab production rate vs. back ordered?

[@MentalMetal]

No clue on that sorry.

[@stephencurry599]

The Xterra pro goes to a higher vdi when you pull it off the target also...

[@danielparma6478]

I am a CTX user, you have convinced me to purchase a Manticore, but only for beach use for all inland detecting I will stick to the CTX

[@MentalMetal]

Once you use it for awhile it might change your mind on land. CTX is good but you have to swing at a snails pace. Its just old and out dated now, compared to the other machines. Don't get me wrong its still a hell of a machine but heavy.

[@Prof.Polymath]

Surely the cable found was a point for the ctx. It’s showed it as rubbish, yet the manticore was screaming good ?

[@auroratheXlbully]

Ctx is like anything old ie buildings roads cars, built to last and cant be beaten 😊

[@MentalMetal]

hmmmm maybe.

[@cal4625]

Thousands of dollars worth of detector technology and you're still digging pull tabs, beer cans, and foil.

[@MentalMetal]

and you will be for all the other machines that come out in the future.

[@JoeInMemphis]

@@MentalMetal Maybe Nokta will come out with "Super Duper X-Ray Treasure Vision" so we can see the brand of beer can before we dig it. Personally, if its not a Schlitz I'm not interested. 🤣👍

[@crazycressy7986]

Pull tabs come out the same as gold rings ,cans come out as big silvers, foil comes out as small hammys and gold ,sounds like your missing a lot of targets lol

[@brettgas2787]

The 3030 won that hands down tbo

[@MentalMetal]

Fair but in 2023, the CTX is slow processing machine and with the new update hopefully the Manticore will come into its own.

[@captnse]

Thanks, Scott, for comparing the CTX with your Manticore. For a spot like you hunted with a target here and there, I wouldn’t expect much difference between the two machines……however, I’m suspecting when you get to hunting a spot with higher densities of iron and other low conductive trash, the processing power/target separation of the manticore will outperform the CTX. Manticore tip: Learn the “Long Press” of the noise cancel button. It’s unique to the manticore and could allow your machine more stability and depth (by allowing you to operate at a higher sensitivity with lower EMI levels). I noticed at the beginning of your video, you “short” pressed the noise cancel button 3 times, and the machine chose 3 different noise channels…..when you do a “long press”, the manticore will repeat the noise cancel for as long as you hold down the button, but it’s much different than the short press. When you long press, the machine remembers the emi levels of each channel before repeating the function again, and computes an aggregate noise level from each of the channels, and will eventually arrive at the BEST (quietest) overall channel to hunt……continue to hold down the NC button until the channel stops changing….👍🏼 Tom Dankowski discusses this new manticore feature in detail on his forum, but in a nutshell, when you just simply 'tap' the Noise Cancel button, you will acquire an ‘above average' Noise Cancel channel. When you LONG PRESS.... you will acquire the BEST Noise Cancel channel.

[@MentalMetal]

Thanks Dan for the info.

[@Whadaa72]

I can't tell you how many times dogs seem to know where coins are buried because the poo is either right next to it or under it. I posted once a really nice barber dime with the poo right behind it just to see if someone would dig that good signal 😀

[@MentalMetal]

LOL It was everywhere.

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

Ever think about dropping a calling card in a hole you located silver ? You know something you can have produced affordably ? It could direct future detectors to your site.

[@MentalMetal]

Interesting idea. Maybe I could get some fake coins with my logo on it and drop them in the holes.

[@danielkemp4187]

What gets better depth equinox 900 or manticore?

[@MentalMetal]

Manticore gets a little more depth.

[@caseynabors6235]

Minelab should’ve put the same shaft as the 3030 on the Manticore and hide the wires looks so much more sophisticated and stronger plus you don’t want loose wires above your coil, coils detect upwards as well and when your wires are not wound tight they can create a false signal plus just looks bad ,however the CTX wires in the shaft solved this issue brilliantly.

[@MentalMetal]

That is an interesting suggestion.

[@davemcgraw5630]

Nice video. Next time LEAD with the CTX and see if the Manticore keeps up...

[@MentalMetal]

Good idea!

[@wesleyezell2361]

I love my ctx

[@MentalMetal]

Its a great machine. Has been for years.

[@naturosaur]

First like then watch :) Greetings from Bosnia!

[@MentalMetal]

Greetings and thanks!

[@wingrovedl]

NO ! the "Manticore" was not showing as a better machine. Sorry . You weren't giving all the numbers on the CTX. That would of been the "Tell" as far as I'm concerned. O.K. I'll give you the lighter weight on the manticore. The custom screens on the CTX are far better, to build & going between programs. The GPS is a savior when going back on very large hunting sites. I think I'll keep my CTX . But, thanks for the comparison test. ✌

[@brownie666007]

It reassuring to read other ctx users saying what I think as well there is one thing nearly all people miss withe the ctx that is the screen and pinpoint target trace the screen give you so much information

[@oldArmyVet]

The etrac is just as good as a 3030

[@MentalMetal]

A lot of people love/loved their Etrac, I never had one but wish I did at times.

[@sidigs344]

Na it really isn't lol

[@tpcomparison]

Nope

[@justinandsheba]

I have both. They really are very similar, but I like the target trace feature of the CTX.

[@stanmarczynski2765]

nice video but i think the" old guys" rule saying and if it " looks good it is good " is applicable here even minelab are haveing a hard time to better the ctx, both machines are great

[@donwhipper8763]

Would like to see what the D2 might find at this site 😊

[@MentalMetal]

On a site like that it would have hit all of those targets just the same.

[@donwhipper8763]

But would the D2 have sounded off iron on the 2 targets the Manticore high tone on?

[@lukemiller2895]

Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. Youre my go to channel. Ill keep my negetive comments to myself, this video says them for me. Please please take your deus 2 back to this same area and dig a handful of coins so I can take the manticore out of the running once and for all

[@MentalMetal]

Thanks Luke I'll be totally honest, this really wasn't a hard place to detect and I assure you that with some trash in the ground the Manticore will out perform the CTX because the CTX is too slow. However, paired up against the Deus in iron the D2 will the slight advantage. Its hard for me to pick just one machine between the 2 because I like them both for different reasons.

[@lukemiller2895]

@@MentalMetal I understand that, id own them all but im not spending all that. I just keep seeing the manticore sound off a great tone and paint non ferrus and then dig a nail. The deus seems to have better ID in iron

[@lionsdejudah]

Just tried the Manticore for the 1st time today. And I’m not impressed. But ima give it a few more try’s. So far the CTX is king. A heavy damaging your shoulder up king.

[@MentalMetal]

You are going to need more than a few times to be convinced, my friend. You CTX owners are a hard sell haha but after a couple months you might come around. You have to give it some time.

[@lionsdejudah]

@@MentalMetal Tried the manticore again today using the stock 11” coil and one of your programs, I was more pleased today than yesterday. I was using the 15” coil yesterday and it was garbage, the depth reading was deep for just about every target so if you rely on the depth gauge like I do it’s best to use the stock coil to get a accurate reading.

[@grosik_tv1]

Czekam na swoją Manticore ☺😁👋👋👋

[@MentalMetal]

Its coming!

[@JonR35]

Curious for Manti updates

[@MentalMetal]

I heard they are working on something. Thats all I know.

[@GarysMetalDetecting]

Beer makes ya smart, it made Budweiser.

[@Whadaa72]

My buddy had run the 3030 for 10 years and can never understand why minelab didn't come out with an update on the programming or firmware. Minelab should have came out with a new 3030 like the manticore frame and battery. Let's face it all day with the 3030 and you will know it. Heavy!

[@MentalMetal]

My head hurts just as much too. Lets hope that doesn't happen with the manticore.

[@oceankiwi100]

CTX weights not really an issue because the battery sits behind your elbow and balances the machine beautifully.

[@masitaatisam3679]

@@oceankiwi100 Yeah indeed, ok its heavy its not a lightweight , but greatly balanced and a harnas can do some work for the longer days .. In my experience it is more prone to the constantly repeating swing that give fatique rather then weight alone.. Not speaking about a tesoro or a deus off course since those are feather light..

[@Hamlocks]

@@masitaatisam3679right, I don’t need to swing for 5 minutes to make sure to dig or not with my CTX 😂

[@paulcoenen7918]

I seem to have a permanent knot behind my right shoulder from over doing it with the CTX. I haven't used it in about 3 years but the pain is still there.

[@tedyoh7394]

Well thanks to you and CBD for saving me $1500....I dig enough falsing iron as it is....I'll grab you a case of that PBR you are yearning for......i'll drop it off at camp.

[@MentalMetal]

Don't hold on to it too long, the more you use the Manticore you will see where it shines. I'll be in next week, taking care of stuff for my Dad, I'll be in Wed-Sat.

[@tedyoh7394]

@@MentalMetalcold smoking sausage here next weekend.....I don't have a Manticore....don't really want one either

[@rickvann3489]

I called the can for a good target. I just don't see any great leaps in detectors in the last 10 to 15 years just more eye candy screens. I have old Tesoros from the 80's that run thru iron infested ground as good as my Deus and forget the minelab extrac running through it at any good pace but can be done. I own 13 detectors and it is so unnecessary. Probably my 3 favorite detectors are NASA Tom CZ3D my Omega 8000 4th edition Hot and Chatty even have an extra one new in the box and last but not least is a tie between the Nokta Impact and Whites MXT Nickel finding machine. Fisher F5 is my sleeper machine runs like the Teknetics Omega 8000 with more bells and whistles.

[@scrapiron6870]

Sir faster processor, screen, cosmetic mean nothing if you can’t eliminate to falsing, weight is heavy but manticiore is overrated in performance oh and your comparison to a much older model, I think that’s a consensus and concern, thanks

[@MentalMetal]

Yes I know everyone is hung up on falsing but most of you have never used it so I guess that something to think about. Thanks again for your thoughts.

[@scrapiron6870]

@@MentalMetal point well taken most having not use because minelab can't get thete products on store shelves, shameful as I stated Germany was a huge distributor and they drop them completely go read the story

[@jomon723]

What do you mean the CTX is no good?

[@MentalMetal]

Never EVER said the CTX was no good.

[@jomon723]

J@@MentalMetal Just pulling your chain. agree, too big and too many whistles, worry about leaking too in the water, but did enjoy it. Now it's about High performance and light, :)) Do you need a spare CTX? :))

[@jomon723]

No, do you need an extra one? ....Just can't chuck it :))

[@Yodumeee]

The numbers on the manicore are all over the place. The ctx is way more stable

[@MentalMetal]

The new update fixed the numbers. This video is outdated now.

[@roymanewell4958]

ask yourself 9 months later have you got a rearly slamdunk signal with the core most deeper signals sound irony

[@MentalMetal]

After 9 months on a machine I would hope that by then, you will have figured out the tones and could tell. This machine is no different that the others when it comes to learning how to use it. The problem was that people were putting too much stock in the 2D map. If you really give this machine a chance you will find it to be a very superior machine, probably top 2 on the market. Just my 2 cents.

[@clarkfox7961]

I dont care about brand or cost I just want the best ive had many detectors over the 40 years I've been detecting minelab 705 great detector very deep but far to slow and useless on the beach , tesoro fantastic detectors I would never have changed if they hadn't gone bust , xp deus 1 personally I liked it but the performance wasn't anything special and it wasn't waterproof , then the equinox 800 performance quite good but I sold it as the build quality was shameful and for that reason minelab has lost me as a future customer, I now have the deus 2 it's very deep on both land and beach super light and in my opinion the best metal detector on the market , if this changes then I will buy something else but at the moment the deus 2 is king 🤴

[@MentalMetal]

The Deus 2 is a great machine for sure.

[@tpcomparison]

Manticore is a top mashine but no real successor of the ctx… i have a feeling that ML will come around with another mashine

[@MentalMetal]

Give them a chance to update the Manticore then I think you will see some folks change their minds.

[@tpcomparison]

@@MentalMetal sure - its possible. But you know minelabs Update policy… its a shame

[@chelaonda8810]

CTX der Beste

[@scrapiron6870]

Question, a company like minelab just can’t engineer a machine without falsification, my goodness they can’t even get products to stores, very disappointing, minelab to busy always sueing xp deus and notka, fix the problems with updates , or do they test machines im sure not good sir

[@MentalMetal]

Here is a great opportunity for you to come in and develop a better machine. :-) I'm not bound by any company but man, some of you guys are quick to bash without having giving it a fair shake. Maybe I'll eat crow but I'll bet the update will address most if not all of the these falsing concerns.

[@scrapiron6870]

@@MentalMetal im not an engineer sir, or a paid tester or spokesman, however its a problem and its not about perfection u no it. 1500.00. Minelab more concerned about notka that there losing focus and distribution in Germany thankyou

[@1CarsonChris]

Dang can

[@googleuser1456]

Expensive pullrab finders

[@guitawrizt]

Thanks, Sir for saving Me $1600 plus tax. Equinox 800 wins the day.

[@MentalMetal]

You can buy them cheap you might as well stock up on them while you can.

[@MentalMetal]

Fort Bedford has a pile of them they want to get rid of if you need a back up.

[@guitawrizt]

@@MentalMetal Holding out for Manticore II- which I expect to feature x-ray imaging ! (I appreciate the work & entertainment you and Rocky bring).

[@ilichanell8116]

But e trac still Best of the Best 😁

[@steve-ns2bb]

CTX audio seem far better to my ear & seem to match performance. Only thing on CTX is screen glare. Manticore Way Better?? Nah.😉

[@gary12penn]

CRAP CRAP CRAP HA HA HA good one

[@brettgas2787]

Let’s be perfectly frank minelab are just pushing this overpriced machine as much as they can I own a ctx but if I upgrade I think I would not go for that when there are good machines half the price I think the deus 2 is as good

[@MentalMetal]

Fair point, but the D2 is still around the same price :)

[@user-ck8kz7zg4o]

Ctx can be manticore But manticore cannot be ctx 3030...trust me ctx 3030 had it all This comparism is not fair... Did tou change target separation on ctx to ferrous coin? No is it... ..

[@kennethhuffman2288]

Wow, hate to hear this

[@MentalMetal]

hate to hear what, that I picked the Manticore over the CTX?

[@kennethhuffman2288]

@@MentalMetal yea because I just bought the 3030. Tried to start with the best out of the gate, lol

[@saper53rus]

Был у меня ctx 3030 продал его так как он не видит серебрянную монету между двух гвоздей на разном уровне если они лежат. Потом у меня был эквинокс 800 даже он лучше чем ctx 3030 Теперь у меня мантикора которая в сто раз лучше чем ctx 3030)))

[@tpcomparison]

😂😂😂 good joke

[@AdventuresInMetalDetecting]

If you think that was a fair test, you're nuts. You called 3 targets "good" on the CTX3030 that NO experienced CTX3030 pilot would dig. You even called one "good" AND "very big"... so big in fact that it shouldn't rate a second look. It's clear that you are biased to the Manticore with your "pet name"... the beast... I know 5 CTX3030 pilots from back in the day that would dance circles around your beloved Manticore with their 3030s and custom modes. The Manticore is too expensive and missed on enough of the targets in your video to not justify the cost to replace my 3030. Now, that being said, I do believe the Manticore shines over the whole Equinox line up. If I hadn't had 8 years on an E-Trac, or wasn't familiar with the Fe-Co display, I might be convinced to get a Manticore. But bottom line, the 3030 is a Pro level machine, manticore is a hobbyist machine. A 3030 in the hands of someone who really KNOWS the machine would kick the manticore's arse...

[@MentalMetal]

Thanks for the comment 👍.

[@lanenebraska3322]

Manticore with 20 sensitivity 😂you’re kidding me right?

[@MentalMetal]

I did catch that and fixed it but you probably only watched 30 secs so you wouldn't know.

[@phrunt]

@@MentalMetal Have you worked out yet lower sensitivity gives you better ID and doesn't lose much depth at all, 20 was perfectly fine, in fact it probably performed better for you in 20 than it would have if you were higher.

[@user-nq4uk8js4p]

CT’s was all over the place it’s a nothing burger

[@Si_digs]

As if 😂

[@scarsprospecting]

The nox 800 does better than the 3030 . Crazy !

[@sidigs344]

As if lol

[@davidskidmore8612]

😆 someone has been drinking again

[@oceankiwi100]

not really!!

[@tpcomparison]

😂😂😂😂 loud lol

[@markbaeten4734]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@thomasnappo6309]

BOTH WELL OVERPRICED PLASTIC..

[@JoeInMemphis]

Yea, I prefer my 1988 Garrett Master Hunter 5, they weren't giving out free duck calls back then, but at least it is METAL 🙄

[@justinandsheba]

Carbon fiber

[@vova_69_96]

What kind of small spatula do you have? Where can I buy one?

[@MentalMetal]

I got it over at backwoodsmetaldetectors.com/ you can reach out to the guy to see if he can still get them made. If he still makes them have him curve the tip slightly. They work great.

[@vova_69_96]

@@MentalMetal Thank you !