The Minelab Manticore is a standout addition to the world of high-end metal detectors, combining Minelab’s legendary technology with new features that push the boundaries of what a metal detector can do. Known for its advanced signal processing and excellent target identification capabilities, the Manticore is designed for serious detectorists who want top-notch performance in a wide range of conditions. Here’s a detailed review of its features, performance, and overall value:
Design and Build Quality:
The Manticore has a sleek, modern design that feels sturdy and well-balanced. At around 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs), it’s a bit heavier than some other high-end models, but the build quality is top-notch, and its ergonomic handle ensures comfort during long detecting sessions. The control box is large enough to house a high-quality LCD screen and intuitive controls, but still lightweight enough to prevent any strain on your arm.
The shaft is adjustable, which allows for a customizable fit, and it features a solid, high-quality build that can withstand the elements. The Manticore is also waterproof to 5 meters (16.4 feet), making it an excellent choice for beach hunting and shallow water detecting.
FBS 2 Technology:
One of the standout features of the Manticore is Minelab’s FBS 2 (Full Band Spectrum 2) technology. This multi-frequency system improves target depth, accuracy, and separation by operating on multiple frequencies simultaneously. FBS 2 enables the Manticore to achieve better performance in mineralized soil and among trash-filled areas, offering a clearer understanding of what you’re detecting.
With FBS 2, the Manticore’s ability to identify targets is highly advanced. It provides better separation in highly mineralized environments, allowing for clearer detection of both deep and small targets, like coins, relics, and gold.
Target Identification and Audio Feedback:
The Manticore excels in target identification, offering detailed audio and visual feedback. The large, full-color LCD screen provides clear, easy-to-read target information, showing depth, target ID, and signal strength. The target ID system uses multiple indicators (including a numerical value) to give you a precise idea of what you’re detecting, which is particularly useful when trying to differentiate between valuable targets and trash.
The Manticore’s audio system is also a key feature. With advanced tones and adjustable settings, it gives you clear audio feedback on target depth, conductivity, and composition. The multi-tone audio system allows you to hear a variety of frequencies simultaneously, which makes it easier to distinguish between different types of metal.
Depth and Sensitivity:
The Manticore delivers excellent depth, especially when compared to other detectors in its class. Thanks to the FBS 2 technology, it’s capable of detecting targets at impressive depths, even in challenging soil conditions. Whether you’re hunting for deep coins, relics, or small nuggets, the Manticore has the power to pick up even faint signals that other detectors might miss.
Its adjustable sensitivity settings allow you to tailor the detector’s performance to the ground conditions you’re dealing with. You can crank up the sensitivity for maximum depth, or dial it back when hunting in highly mineralized areas to maintain stable performance.
Ease of Use and Customization:
Minelab has made the Manticore highly user-friendly, with an intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate. The menu system is simple, and all the main controls are easily accessible through the touchscreen and buttons. For those who prefer a bit more control, the Manticore offers a wide range of customization options. You can adjust sensitivity, discrimination, and even tweak your search modes for specific types of targets.
Additionally, the Manticore allows you to save custom settings and programs, which is useful when you need to switch between different locations or ground conditions. Whether you’re in a trashy park or a mineralized beach, the ability to adjust settings on the fly ensures optimal performance.
Battery Life:
The Manticore is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery, which provides up to 12 hours of continuous use on a full charge. This is more than enough for a day of detecting, and you can easily recharge it via USB when needed. The battery life is generally quite good, and the USB charging system is both convenient and eco-friendly.
Final Thoughts:
The Minelab Manticore is an outstanding metal detector that combines cutting-edge technology with excellent performance. Its advanced FBS 2 multi-frequency system offers superb depth and target identification, while its intuitive controls and customizable settings make it suitable for both beginners and experienced detectorists. Whether you’re hunting on land, at the beach, or in shallow water, the Manticore provides reliable, accurate performance in a range of environments.
If you’re serious about metal detecting and want a detector that can handle challenging ground conditions while offering top-tier target identification and depth, the Manticore is an excellent choice. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but the features and performance justify the investment for anyone looking to take their metal detecting to the next level.
Pros:
- Advanced FBS 2 multi-frequency technology
- Excellent target identification and separation
- Full-color LCD screen for clear target info
- Impressive depth capabilities
- Customizable settings for all conditions
- Waterproof to 5 meters (16.4 feet)
- Long battery life (up to 12 hours)
Cons:
- Heavier than some other models (3.5 lbs)
- Price point may be a barrier for casual detectorists
- Not fully waterproof for deeper underwater use