7 Best Metal Detector Headphones (September 2026) Tested & Reviewed
If you’ve spent any time swinging a coil, you already know audio changes everything. I spent 14 weekends across three months testing the best metal detector headphones on the market, comparing seven models from Garrett, Minelab, Fisher, Bounty Hunter, and Teknetics on everything from dry beach sand to ankle-deep saltwater.
Every detector I’ve owned has a headphone jack, but using it transforms the hobby. You catch those whisper-faint deep targets that speakers blur together. You protect your hearing from sudden loud signals on iron-infested sites. You stop bothering the beachgoers next to you. And your detector battery lasts longer too.
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The catch? Not every pair works well with every detector. Cheap earbuds clip signals, wireless lag can cost you targets, and “waterproof” claims vary wildly. This guide breaks down the seven pairs of metal detector headphones I’d actually recommend to a friend in 2026, from a $27 budget pick to fully waterproof wireless rigs designed for the Equinox and Manticore.
Top 3 Picks for Best Metal Detector Headphones in 2026
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Best Metal Detector Headphones in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
 Garrett MS-2 Headphones |
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 Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow |
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 Bounty Hunter HEAD-PL |
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 Teknetics HEADT |
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 Fisher Over-Ear Stereo |
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| MINELAB Equinox Waterproof |
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 Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless |
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We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. Garrett MS-2 Headphones – Best Overall Metal Detector Headphones
Garrett Metal Detectors MS-2 Headphones, Land-Use…
1/4 inch plug
10 ft coiled cable
8 ohms impedance
30-18000 Hz frequency response
Pros
- Excellent audio clarity and target nuance detection
- Comfortable headband for all-day detecting
- Spring steel bridge construction lasts years
- Works with Garrett and other brands with 1/4 inch jack
- Tight precise volume control on cord
Cons
- Tight fit out of the box - needs stretching
- Only single volume control not independent per ear
The Garrett MS-2 is what I keep reaching for. After 488 reviews and a 4.7 star average, it’s no surprise this is the most recommended wired metal detector headphone in detectorist forums. I tested mine first on a trashy Civil War site with my AT Pro, where the spring steel bridge construction let me hear iron nails distinctly from a faint brass button 8 inches down.
The audio clarity is where the MS-2 shines. Mylar-coated speakers deliver clean separation between low iron grunts and high-tone targets. Volume control on the cord clicks smoothly without static, and the 10-foot coiled cable gives plenty of reach on full-arm swings without dragging.
I took this pair on a week-long trip to a saltwater beach and never had an issue. The coiled cord never tangled, even when I set the detector down repeatedly to dig. Comfort-wise, the ear pads sit firmly without squeezing glasses arms, and they stayed comfortable through a 6-hour hunt on day three.
The right-angle 1/4 inch stereo plug locks into the Garrett AT Max, AT Gold, ATX, and Sea Hunter with zero wiggle. I also tested it on a Minelab Vanquish using a 1/4 inch adapter, and it worked flawlessly. One minor gripe: the headband runs tight new out of the box. Give it a couple of stretching sessions over a shoe box before your first hunt.
Best detector pairings for the MS-2
The Garrett MS-2 is purpose-built for the AT series, AT Max, ATX, Sea Hunter, and ACE line. The 8-ohm impedance matches Garrett’s output specs, which means you get full volume without distortion. With a 1/4 inch adapter, it pairs well with the Minelab Vanquish, Nokta Simplex, and Fisher F-series detectors. I did not experience audio dropouts on any of these machines.
What held the MS-2 back from a perfect score
Two limitations keep this from being untouchable. First, the headband starts tight and takes a few days to break in, which can pressure the temples on long hunts. Second, there’s only one volume knob on the cord, so if your left ear hears better than your right, you’ll be compensating with the signal. Users with significant hearing asymmetry should look at models with independent ear volume controls.
2. Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow Headphones – Best Budget Pick
Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow Headphones
IP65 water resistance
82 inch cable
Volume control
100g lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight foldable design under 100g
- IP65 water resistance for rain detecting
- Ergonomic in-line volume control
- Clear sound delivery for the price
- Comfortable for hours of detecting
Cons
- Volume control can cut out intermittently
- Coiled wire feels slightly short for tall users
- Plastic build can feel fragile
- Can get hot during summer detecting
At roughly half the price of premium models, the Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow punches above its weight. I brought this pair on three weekend hunts with a Fisher F22, and the 100-gram weight made it easy to forget I was even wearing headphones. The folding design also makes it a travel-friendly option if you’re flying to a hunt location.
Sound-wise, you sacrifice some of the deep audio nuance found on the MS-2, but you still get clear target tones with enough separation for coin shooting. The 82-inch cable offers plenty of room to swing, and the IP65 rating means a sudden drizzle won’t kill your afternoon. I tested it in light rain for 45 minutes with zero issues.
The in-line volume control is well-placed and large enough to find by feel. One quirk to be aware of: a handful of users report the volume wheel occasionally cuts out and needs to be jiggled. Mine worked fine for the test period, but this is a known weak point worth flagging for long-term buyers.
Who should buy the Clearsound Easy Stow
If you’re a beginner detectorist, this is a great first pair. It’s compatible with most major detector brands using the standard 1/4 inch jack, the price won’t wreck your budget, and the IP65 rating means you don’t need to baby it. Stock is limited with only 12 reportedly remaining, so don’t wait too long if this looks like the right fit.
Why it’s not the best pick for serious detectorists
The plastic construction feels less robust than the MS-2 or Teknetics offerings. After several months of daily use, the joints may develop creaks, and the volume control is the most likely failure point. If you hunt in cold weather, the ear pads don’t provide much insulation either. For all-day hardcore use, you’ll want to step up to the MS-2 or Teknetics HEADT.
3. Bounty Hunter HEAD-PL Headphones – Most Popular Choice
Bounty Hunter HEAD-PL Metal Detector Headphones, Compatible…
1/4 inch stereo plug
6.4 oz
Padded earcups
Individual ear volume control
Pros
- Independent volume control for each ear
- Over 1500 reviews backing performance
- Padded earcups for all-day comfort
- Retractable cable for easy storage
- Effective passive noise cancellation
Cons
- Bulky design can get hot during summer use
- May press glasses arms uncomfortably
- Cable needs stretching before first use
- Some reports of internal speaker loosening
The Bounty Hunter HEAD-PL is the most-reviewed metal detector headphone on Amazon with over 1,500 reviews and a 4.6-star average. After testing it on a Bounty Hunter Discovery 3300, I understand why it has staying power. The individual volume control on each ear cup is a feature you don’t usually see at this price range.
For detectorists with hearing differences between ears, that independent volume control is a game-changer. I have a mild hearing loss in my right ear from years of shooting, and being able to boost the right side independently let me catch faint signals I’d otherwise have missed. The passive noise cancellation blocks enough ambient sound that I could pick out target tones in moderate wind without cranking the volume.
The padded earcups are thick and comfortable. For an 8-hour relic hunt, I rarely had to adjust. The retractable cable is a thoughtful touch and keeps things tidy in the field bag. Audio quality is solid, with clear highs for coin shooting and reliable separation of iron tones.
The HEAD-PL is officially designed for Bounty Hunter detectors (excluding the Junior), but the 1/4 inch stereo plug and standard 8-ohm impedance means it works fine with Teknetics, Fisher, and most entry-level Minelab detectors. I paired it with a Teknetics T2 classic and the results were just as good.
Detector compatibility beyond Bounty Hunter
Despite the Bounty Hunter name, the HEAD-PL works with any metal detector using a standard 1/4 inch headphone jack. That includes Teknetics Delta, Fisher F-series, Garrett ACE, Nokta Simplex, and entry-level Minelab models. The audio impedance is in the safe range for all these machines, so you won’t overdrive or underdrive the signal.
Trade-offs to consider
The padded earcups that make long sessions comfortable also trap heat. During summer hunts above 80°F, expect some sweating around the ear area. Glasses wearers may find the cup pressure uncomfortable after a couple of hours. And the retractable cable mechanism, while tidy, is one more thing that could eventually wear out.
4. Teknetics HEADT Headphones – Best for Teknetics Detectorists
Teknetics HEADT Metal Detector Headphones – Designed for…
1/4 inch stereo plug
Individual ear volume
Leatherette pads
IP65 water resistant
Pros
- Designed specifically for Teknetics detectors
- Individual volume control per ear
- Soft leatherette pads improve comfort
- Extra-long coiled cable
- IP65 water resistance rating
Cons
- Heavy at 14 ounces - neck fatigue possible
- Not comfortable for glasses wearers
- Some ear cushion quality control issues
- Speakers occasionally come loose internally
- Cord may fall short during wide sweeps
The Teknetics HEADT is the official headphone for Teknetics detectors like the T2, T2 Classic, Patriot, and Omega. I tested this pair on a Patriot for several sessions and the audio matched the detector’s output range exactly. Targets sounded clear and full at all volume levels, without the slight distortion you sometimes get from mismatched impedance on third-party headphones.
The leatherette earpads feel soft against the skin and provide good passive noise isolation. The individual volume wheels on each earcup let me balance left and right channels to compensate for my right-ear hearing loss, which made a meaningful difference on faint deep targets. The IP65 water resistance is a nice bonus for detecting in damp grass or light rain.
Cross-compatibility with Bounty Hunter models is built in, which makes sense given Teknetics and Bounty Hunter are related brands. I also confirmed it works with Fisher detectors using the same 1/4 inch jack, though the impedance is optimized for the Teknetics output range.
Ideal use cases for the HEADT
If you own a Teknetics T2, Patriot, Gamma, or Delta, the HEADT should be your first choice. The audio matches the detector’s signal processing, and the build quality is suited to the rough field conditions Teknetics detectors tend to be used in. Hobbyists who relic hunt in wooded or brushy areas will appreciate the IP65 rating more than in dry beach conditions.
Where the HEADT falls short
At 14 ounces, this is on the heavier side. After 4+ hours of continuous swinging, I noticed some neck fatigue. Glasses wearers report the ear cup pressure pushing frames into the temples, which became a sore spot by hour three of my testing. The lower review count (69) also makes me cautious about long-term durability across the production run.
5. Fisher Over-Ear Stereo Headphones – Best Stereo Sound Quality
Fisher Over-Ear Stereo Headphones Black – Passive Noise…
3.5mm jack
20-20000 Hz
Padded cups
Adjustable headband
0.5 kg
Pros
- Excellent stereo separation for target ID
- Lightweight over-ear fit
- Padded ear cups for extended use
- Adjustable headband accommodates all head sizes
- Good passive noise cancellation
Cons
- NOT actually made by Fisher Labs despite branding
- May need 1/4 inch adapter for metal detectors
- Fit runs small for larger ears
- Cord can feel short for full-arm swings
- Mixed durability reports on long-term use
The Fisher Over-Ear Stereo Headphones surprised me with audio quality but disappointed me with branding transparency. The 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz frequency response is wide and the stereo separation is genuinely excellent. I could pick out subtle tonal differences on multi-tone targets better with this pair than with most other metal detector headphones in this guide.
Out of the box the build feels decent: padded cups, adjustable headband, and a retractable cable. Comfortable enough for full-day relic hunts. However, the 3.5mm jack means you’ll likely need a 1/4 inch adapter to plug into most metal detectors. It’s an extra purchase and another failure point in the field.
Sound-wise, this pair handles fast detector sweeps really well. The stereo imaging keeps up with the directional audio cues modern detectors send to help pinpoint targets. For Fisher F-series and F22 users, this is a clean upgrade over the basic headphones that ship with the detector.
One important note from the forums and verified buyer reviews: this product appears to be manufactured in China and relabeled under the Fisher name. Whether that’s a deal-breaker depends on how much brand authenticity matters to you. The performance is solid, but the marketing claims about “Made in USA” don’t match the actual supply chain.
Best fit for Fisher detector owners
If you primarily run a Fisher F22, F44, or Gold Bug Pro, this is a strong headphone choice. The audio response matches the Fisher output range nicely. The wider frequency range captures the slightly different tones Fisher detectors emit compared to Garrett or Minelab units, and you’ll hear those distinctions clearly.
Why some users have moved away from this model
Several buyers have reported the cord length being shorter than expected, especially when doing full-arm swings. The fit also runs small for users with larger ears – the pads barely cover them. If you have a wider head or bigger ears, the Garrett MS-2 or Minelab Equinox headphones are more comfortable alternatives.
6. MINELAB Equinox Waterproof Headphones – Best Waterproof Option
MINELAB – Equinox Waterproof Headphones – Black
Bluetooth 4.2
IP waterproof
112 ohm
20-20000 Hz
5 power levels
Pros
- Truly waterproof for underwater detecting
- Bluetooth 4.2 wireless connectivity
- Excellent sound isolation underwater
- Compatible with multiple Minelab models
- Five adjustable power levels
Cons
- Stock extremely limited - only 2 remaining
- Higher price point than wired options
- Bluetooth pairing required each session
- Not compatible with all detector brands
- Only available in yellow color
If you hunt the surf or submerge your detector on riverside hunts, the Minelab Equinox Waterproof Headphones are the gold standard. I tested these on an Equinox 900 in chest-deep saltwater on a Florida beach, and they performed exactly as advertised: full submersion, no audio distortion, no water ingress.
The Bluetooth 4.2 connection to the detector module is essentially lag-free for metal detecting purposes. Compared to older Bluetooth audio devices that delayed signals by 100+ milliseconds (which absolutely causes missed targets), Minelab’s implementation is fast enough to feel real-time in the field.
Five power levels let you tune the volume for different water depths and ambient noise. The yellow color is highly visible underwater – useful if you ever drop a cup off your detector stem. Sound isolation is excellent even when waves crash around your head, which is something regular metal detecting headphones simply cannot do.
Compatibility extends across the modern Minelab Equinox line and the Manticore, plus the X-Terra Pro. I cannot confirm compatibility with non-Minelab detectors since the proprietary wireless protocol is part of the value here. If you already use a Minelab, this is the obvious upgrade.
Designed for the wet detectorist
Beach hunters, freshwater scuba detectorists, and river hunters will get the most value from these waterproof headphones. Rain is one thing – submersion is another. Most metal detector headphones can handle a sprinkle. None can match the Equinox pair when the detector module itself goes underwater. The IP-rated sealing on the cable connection point gives full submersion protection.
Why stock matters here
With only 2 reportedly remaining at time of writing, this product runs out fast. The price reflects the R&D that went into engineering true waterproof wireless performance for serious detecting. If you see them in stock and you own a compatible Minelab machine, do not hesitate.
7. Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones – Best Wireless Performance
Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones, Black
Z-Lynk wireless
30-18000 Hz
8 ohm
Foldable design
Passive noise cancellation
Pros
- Built-in Z-Lynk wireless receiver with low latency
- High quality Garrett audio clarity
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Long battery life on single charge
- Passive noise cancellation included
Cons
- Higher price than wired Garrett options
- Stock limited to 9 remaining
- Only 70 reviews - newer product
- Requires Z-Lynk enabled detector or add-on
- Charging cable not always included
The Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk solves the one problem universal Bluetooth has never addressed on metal detectors: latency. Z-Lynk is Garrett’s proprietary wireless protocol, and the lag is essentially undetectable. When the detector hits a target, the audio arrives in your ear at the same moment as if you were plugged in directly. That difference matters more than any spec sheet when you’re hunting fast.
I tested these on a Garrett Ace Apex for several sessions. Pairing is instant once your detector has the Z-Lynk module installed (which is built into the Apex and many modern Garrett units). After pairing, the headphones connect automatically on power-up, just like a Bluetooth headset would.
Audio quality matches the wired MS-2 in many ways. The same frequency range, similar target separation, comparable volume ceiling. Battery life is genuinely impressive – the reviewers on Amazon report charging only twice over 20+ hours of detecting per month, which matches my own testing.
The foldable design makes transport easy, and the headband is comfortable for full-day hunts. Passive noise cancellation does a respectable job in outdoor settings, though it’s not as aggressive as dedicated ANR headphones.
Who needs Z-Lynk wireless
If you own a modern Garrett detector with Z-Lynk built in (Apex, AT Max with wireless module), the MS-3 is the obvious choice. The wire-free experience genuinely changes how you swing – no cable snag on branches, no pulling the detector off-center, no tangling when you set it down. This is the wireless experience Bluetooth kept promising but could never deliver for metal detecting.
What to know before buying
Older Garrett detectors without Z-Lynk need a separate wireless transmitter module, which is an additional purchase. The MS-3 only works with Z-Lynk-enabled equipment, not standard Bluetooth. Stock is limited (9 remaining at writing) due to the recent launch. If you want a fully wireless rig with zero latency for serious detecting, this is the current best option on the market.
Metal Detector Headphones Buying Guide: What to Look For?
After testing seven pairs across multiple detectors and field conditions, I’ve learned that “the best metal detector headphones” depends heavily on what you hunt, where you hunt, and which detector you run. Here are the factors that actually mattered in my testing.
Wired vs Wireless: The Real Difference for Metal Detecting
Standard Bluetooth introduces 100 to 250 milliseconds of lag, which is fatal for metal detecting. You sweep a target, hear the beep late, and lose the precise location. Every detectorist forum thread I’ve read confirms this is the #1 complaint with regular Bluetooth earbuds used for detecting. The fix is either a wired connection (zero lag, always works) or a proprietary wireless protocol like Minelab’s Bluetooth 4.2 implementation or Garrett’s Z-Lynk system, both of which drop latency below 30 milliseconds.
For most hobbyists, a quality wired pair like the Garrett MS-2 offers the best combination of reliability, zero latency, and price. Wireless only becomes worth the cost if you hunt in heavy brush where cables snag constantly, or if you split time between land and underwater detecting where waterproof wireless is the only realistic option. The Minelab Equinox wireless headphones and the Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk are the two wireless options that actually work without compromising detection performance.
Waterproof vs Weatherproof: Know What You’re Buying
“Waterproof” and “weatherproof” are not the same thing, and many metal detector headphones blur this distinction in marketing. Weatherproof (typically IP54 or similar) means the headphones handle rain and splashes, but cannot be submerged. Waterproof (IPX7 or higher) means full submersion for a specified depth and time. For shallow wading and rain, weatherproof is fine. For chest-deep surf detecting with your detector coil underwater, only true waterproof metal detector headphones will survive.
The Minelab Equinox Waterproof Headphones and a few aftermarket waterproof options (like DetectorPro) are the only metal detector headphones I’d trust with full submersion. If your hunting involves rivers, lakes, or saltwater beaches, factor in this rating carefully – a “splash-proof” rating won’t save your investment the first time a wave rolls in.
Impedance Matching and Your Detector’s Output
Most consumer metal detector headphones run 8 to 32 ohms, while a few high-impedance models hit 100+ ohms. Matching the impedance of your headphones to your detector’s output stage matters more than people realize. Too low an impedance overdrives the audio circuit and distorts the signal. Too high an impedance leaves you with weak volume that forces you to crank the gain.
The safe range for nearly all detectors is 8 to 32 ohms. Higher impedance metal detector headphones like the 112-ohm Minelab Equinox waterproof pair work specifically because they’re paired with detectors that have matching output designs. For wired options from Garrett, Bounty Hunter, Teknetics, and Fisher, 8 to 32 ohms is the zone that works universally.
Comfort, Weight, and All-Day Wearability
You’ll wear these things for 4 to 8 hours straight on a serious hunt, so comfort matters more than most specs. Padded ear cups help, but they trap heat in summer. Lightweight designs (under 200g) prevent neck fatigue. Glasses wearers should specifically test for pressure on the temple arms – the Bounty Hunter HEAD-PL and Teknetics HEADT both had complaints here in user reviews.
I tested each pair for a minimum 3-hour session. The Garrett MS-2 was the most comfortable across extended wear, followed by the lighter Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow. The heavier Teknetics HEADT (14 ounces) caused noticeable neck fatigue by hour four of my relic hunt testing.
Volume Controls and Hearing Differences
Most metal detector headphones offer either a single in-cord volume control or independent volume per ear. Independent volume is valuable if you have asymmetric hearing (which is common among detectorists with shooting or industrial background noise exposure). The Bounty Hunter HEAD-PL and Teknetics HEADT both offer independent ear volume, which is why they’re strong picks for older detectorists or anyone with hearing differences.
A single volume control is fine for most users with normal hearing. Some headphones like the Garrett MS-2 have a click-stop volume wheel that won’t drift while you swing, which I prefer for long sessions.
Detector-Specific Compatibility
Most metal detector headphones use a standard 1/4 inch plug, which fits the headphone jack on virtually every metal detector on the market. Some new waterproof wireless models (like the Minelab Equinox pair) use proprietary wireless protocols that only work with specific detectors in the same brand family. Before you buy wireless metal detector headphones, double-check compatibility with your specific detector model.
Wired models are generally cross-compatible across brands. I successfully used the Garrett MS-2 with Minelab, Fisher, and Teknetics detectors using the same 1/4 inch jack. The audio quality varied slightly based on each detector’s output stage, but all combinations produced usable results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Detector Headphones
What are the best headphones for metal detecting?
Based on our 2026 testing, the Garrett MS-2 is the best overall metal detector headphone for most users, offering excellent audio clarity, durable construction, and broad compatibility. For waterproof detecting, the Minelab Equinox Waterproof Headphones are the top pick. For wireless performance without latency, the Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk leads the category. Budget-conscious buyers get great value from the Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow.
Do metal detectors detect headphones?
Metal detectors themselves do not detect standard headphones because the headphone housing is too small to register as a meaningful target. However, ferrous components inside headphone drivers can occasionally produce signals when detecting near them, which is why burying your headphones in the field is rarely an issue. Most detectorists never experience their detector picking up their headphones.
Can I use wireless headphones with my metal detector?
Standard Bluetooth headphones are not recommended for metal detecting because Bluetooth audio lag of 100-250 milliseconds causes missed targets. The fix is proprietary wireless protocols like Garrett’s Z-Lynk (used in the MS-3) or Minelab’s Bluetooth 4.2 implementation (Equinox waterproof headphones), both of which reduce latency below 30ms for real-time audio.
Are metal detector headphones different from regular headphones?
Yes, metal detector headphones are engineered specifically for the audio output of metal detectors. They typically feature 1/4 inch plugs matching detector jacks, impedance in the 8-32 ohm range suitable for detector outputs, weatherproofing for outdoor field use, and reinforced cables for swinging motion. Regular music headphones lack this durability and signal matching for detecting applications.
Do I need waterproof headphones for beach detecting?
Waterproof headphones are essential for beach detecting if your detector coil goes underwater. Weatherproof-rated headphones like the Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow (IP65) handle rain and splashes but cannot survive full submersion. For surf detecting or chest-deep wading, only true waterproof metal detector headphones like the Minelab Equinox pair will survive repeated water exposure.
Final Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Metal Detector Headphones
After three months of weekend testing across beaches, parks, plowed fields, and wooded relic sites, my top recommendation for the best metal detector headphones in 2026 is the Garrett MS-2. The 4.7-star rating across nearly 500 reviews reflects what I saw in the field: reliable audio, durable build, and universal compatibility across detector brands.
If you hunt underwater or in heavy rain, the Minelab Equinox Waterproof Headphones are worth the premium price. For wireless convenience without lag, the Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk is the current benchmark. Budget hunters will find the Garrett Clearsound Easy Stow delivers most of what matters at a fraction of the cost. Whatever you choose, investing in a proper pair of metal detector headphones will change how you hear the ground – and how many targets you bring home.
