DR ÖTEK MT12 Metal Detector
Chris Smith from #HADESDETECTING provides an insightful preview of the upcoming DR.ÖTEK MT12 and puts it through its paces inland and on the beach.
DR.ÖTEK do seem to be taking a new direction with this model. The design appears more contemporary compared to their previous releases, incorporating innovative features like the ability to adjust the notch width, allowing multiple sections to be excluded simultaneously.
The coil design also stands out as a bit of a departure from DR.ÖTEK’s usual style, bearing a resemblance to the designs typically seen in Minelab and Nokta models.
Although still a prototype the DR.ÖTEK MT12 presents itself as a promising addition to the market, although its success will largely hinge on its pricing and how it stacks up against the fierce competition in this space.
Specifications
- Operating frequency – 18kHz.
- Modes – All Metal, Discrimination, Notch, Beach, Pinpoint.
- Coil size – 8.5″ x 11″.
- Lengh – 87cm to 132cm (arm section is 30cm).
- Backlit display – Yes.
- Manual ground balance – Yes
- Target ID – 0 – 99
- Power – 2 x 9v batteries.
- Wired headphones supplied – Yes
- Digging tool and carry bag included.
- Note the above specifications are subject to change.
We know that the intended street price of around £150.00 which will include a digging tool, wired headphones and a carry bag is probably a little on the high side but DR.ÖTEK is well known for its special deals and promotions. A more realistic street price would be somewhere around £100.00.
Conclusion
As this is a pre-release version, it’s important to note that certain aspects may still undergo changes before the final launch. DR.ÖTEK is in the process of addressing some issues with the handle on the MT12 and they may also improve on the machines wet sand performance. The recovery speed also seems to be an issue although probably not as it was with previous models.
The competition in this budget end of the market is a lot stronger than it used to be. Minelab and Nokta have entered this arena with their own entry level machines, the Nokta FindX and FindX Pro and Minelab with their rebadged Sunpow OT-MT09 machine, the X-TERRA Voyager. The MT12 may find it hard going unless the price is right.
Price & Availability
As mentioned, the expected retail price is probably going to be around £150.00 but this will no doubt be discounted, hopefully by quite some margin.
Due to the design revisions taking place the MT12 is not expected to hit the retail market before October.
Links
Treasure Hunting World Facebook