Multi-frequency in detail: XP FMF · Minelab Multi-IQ+ · Nokta SMF
Three manufacturers, three approaches to simultaneous multi-frequency. We show you where the real technical differences lie, what strengths and weaknesses each technology has in practice – and which detector is the right choice for which application.
What is it about? All three technologies transmit several frequencies at the same time through the search coil and evaluate the responses in parallel. What sets them apart is the frequency spectrum, the type of signal processing and the strategic design of the search programs. A classic single-frequency detector handles exactly one type of ground well – a true multi-frequency detector adapts.
The three technologies in detail
What is under the bonnet of the Deus II, Manticore and Legend 2?
FMF
Fast Multi Frequency
XP Metal Detectors · France
How it works
The Deus II transmits many frequencies at once, but depending on the search program it only demodulates the most relevant ones and combines them selectively. Frequencies can be added for the widest target spectrum or subtractedto cancel out conductive ground such as salt water.
Frequency spectrum
4 to 45 kHz
11 multi-frequency programs plus 49 selectable single frequencies.
Strengths
Fully wireless – including the coil
Very light (~930 g), suitable for long days out
Coil and remote waterproof to 20 metres
Very fast recovery speed
49 single frequencies as a trump card against strong EMI
Weaknesses
Complex operation, steep learning curve
Highest price in the comparison
Slightly behind the Manticore on very deep high-conductive coins
Models
XP Deus II · XP ORX (predecessor multi-frequency)
Multi-IQ+
Multi-IQ & Multi-IQ+
Minelab · Australia
How it works
Multi-IQ generates a complex waveform from several base frequencies that is technically quite different from the older BBS/FBS. Multi-IQ+ in the Manticore works with additional transmit power, an extended frequency spectrum and a 2D Target Trace display.
Frequency spectrum
5 to 40 kHz
Multi-IQ profile plus single frequencies 5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz (Equinox 600 without 20/40 kHz).
Strengths
Excellent depth, especially the Manticore
Very high target ID accuracy, even at depth
Manticore with 2D Target Trace display
Strongest performance on high-conductive silver coins
Largest community and most tutorials worldwide
Weaknesses
Diving depth only 5 metres (Manticore/Equinox)
Heavier than the Deus II
Wired coil (not a fully wireless system)
Models
Manticore · Equinox 900 · 700 · 600
SMF
Simultaneous Multi Frequency
Nokta · Turkey
How it works
A true simultaneous multi-frequency method. The Legend 2 provides three independent multi-frequency profiles (M1, M2, M3) preconfigured for different ground types – plus three further multi-frequency variants in the 4 to 40 kHz range.
Frequency spectrum
4 to 40 kHz
Several multi-frequency profiles plus single frequencies 4, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz.
Strengths
Outstanding value for money
Simple operation – "turn on and go"
Several SMF profiles (M1/M2/M3) for different ground
Vibration alert at full diving depth
Regular free firmware updates
Weaknesses
Smaller choice of coils than XP and Minelab
Just behind the Manticore in extreme mineralisation
Head-to-head comparison of the top models Deus II, Manticore and Legend 2
Table scrolls sideways
Criterion
XP Deus II
Manticore
Legend 2
Technology
FMF
Multi-IQ+
SMF
Frequency range
4–45 kHz
5–40 kHz
4–40 kHz
Single frequencies
49
5
5
Recovery speed
Salt-water beach
Deep silver coins
Gold prospecting (nuggets)
Diving depth
20 m
5 m
5 m
Weight (approx.)
930 g
1.300 g
1.400 g
Operation
complex
medium
simple
Wireless system
complete (coil too!)
headphones only
headphones only
Price class
Premium
Premium
Mid-range
Which detector for whom?
Rule of thumb from the field – short and honest
XP Deus II
For mobile detectorists who want a light, fully wireless all-rounder, also want to dive and are prepared to learn the detector properly. Strong in fields, on the beach and under water. If you are out a lot and value low weight – this is your detector.
Minelab Manticore
For users looking for maximum depth and target ID accuracy on historically used land – especially for high-conductive silver coins. A mature detector, established worldwide, with the largest community. Anyone who wants to tell coins and jewellery apart precisely will be happy here.
Nokta Legend 2
For beginners and anyone who wants true SMF performance without a premium price. Get started quickly without wrestling with complex programming. The value for money is unrivalled – and the technology genuinely plays in the top league.
Advice from 30 years in the field
Choosing a multi-frequency technology is always a question of the ground, the finds you prefer and your personal preference in operation. We have tested all three systems in the field. Call or write to us – we will help you find the right detector for where you hunt.
Our top recommendations
The flagships of the three multi-frequency worlds
FMF
XP · Fast Multi Frequency
XP Deus II
The fully wireless all-rounder with FMF technology. Coil and remote submersible to 20 metres, extremely light and suitable for any terrain.
