Best Settings For Xterra 705: Ultimate Essential Guide

Master your Minelab Xterra 705 with these essential settings to unlock its full potential for finding coins, relics, and gold in any environment.

Finding treasure with a metal detector can be incredibly rewarding, but getting the most out of your machine often comes down to understanding its settings. For many, the Minelab Xterra 705 is a beloved companion in the field, known for its versatility and solid performance. However, navigating its various options can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to frustrating days with fewer finds. This guide is designed to demystify those settings, providing you with a clear, step-by-step approach to optimize your Xterra 705 for the types of targets you’re after, whether it’s old coins in a park, historical relics in a field, or even tiny gold nuggets.

Why Xterra 705 Settings Matter for Your Hunt

Understanding the best settings for Xterra 705 is crucial for maximizing your success and enjoying your metal detecting hobby to its fullest. This detector is renowned for its ability to adapt to different ground conditions and target types, but only if you know how to dial it in. Incorrect settings can lead to missed targets, false signals from trash, or unnecessary fatigue from constantly digging junk. By learning to adjust these parameters, you’ll significantly improve your chances of locating valuable items and distinguishing them from the clutter.

The Core of Your Xterra 705: Understanding the Modes

The Minelab Xterra 705 comes equipped with several pre-set modes, each designed for specific detecting scenarios. These modes are your starting point for tailoring the detector to your environment and target of interest. Think of them as pre-programmed recipes that offer a good balance of sensitivity and discrimination for common hunting situations. Choosing the right mode is the first and most critical step in achieving the best settings for Xterra 705.

Coin/Jewellery Mode: Precision for Small Targets

This mode is specifically tuned to pick up the faint signals from coins and small jewelry items. It offers a good balance of depth and discrimination, helping you to ignore larger, less desirable metallic objects. I often start with this mode when I’m hunting in parks or areas where I suspect old coins might be present.

Relic Mode: Unearthing History

Relic Mode is designed to detect a wider range of metallic objects, including larger iron items but also valuable relics. It’s generally more sensitive to deep targets and can be less forgiving with trash, meaning you might dig more junk, but you’re also more likely to find those elusive historical artifacts. This mode is my go-to for exploring old homestead sites or battlefields.

All-Metal Mode: Maximum Depth and Sensitivity

As the name suggests, All-Metal Mode detects all types of metal without discrimination. This mode offers the deepest possible penetration and the highest sensitivity, making it ideal for searching for gold or for sweeping an area thoroughly before deciding on specific discrimination patterns. However, it will signal on everything, so be prepared to dig a lot of iron.

Prospecting Mode: For the Gold Hunter

Specifically designed for gold prospecting, this mode is highly sensitive to the small, low-conductivity signals that gold often produces. It’s engineered to work well in mineralized ground, which is common in gold-bearing areas. If you’re venturing out for a gold hunt, this is the mode you’ll want to select to achieve the best settings for Xterra 705.

Fine-Tuning with Sensitivity: The Key to Depth and Stability

Sensitivity is arguably one of the most important settings on your Xterra 705, directly impacting how deep the detector can “see” into the ground. However, too much sensitivity can lead to unstable signals and false chirps, especially in electrically noisy environments or heavily mineralized soil. Finding the sweet spot is essential for a productive hunt.

Setting Your Sensitivity Level

Start Low and Increase Gradually: Begin with the sensitivity set to a medium level (e.g., 5 or 6).
Listen for Stability: Swing the coil slowly over the ground in your target area. If the detector is producing a steady, stable hum or is silent, you can likely increase the sensitivity.
Push the Limits: Increase the sensitivity by one or two notches at a time. Listen for any erratic noises, chattering, or false signals that appear without a target.
Back Off When Necessary: If you start hearing unstable signals, reduce the sensitivity by one or two notches until the detector becomes stable again. This point of stability, just before it becomes erratic, is your optimal sensitivity setting.

Finding the right balance here is crucial for maximizing depth without sacrificing the ability to hear genuine targets. This careful adjustment is a core component of the best settings for Xterra 705.

Discrimination: Filtering Out the Unwanted

Discrimination allows you to set your Xterra 705 to ignore certain types of metal, like iron, typically by assigning them specific “tones” or numbers that you can choose to ignore. This helps reduce the amount of trash you dig, saving you time and effort. However, aggressive discrimination can sometimes mask desirable targets, like thin gold rings or certain types of relics.

Understanding the Discrimination Scale

The Xterra 705 uses a numerical scale for discrimination. Lower numbers generally represent iron and foil, while higher numbers represent coins and pull tabs.

Iron Mask: This setting is designed to ignore iron objects. I usually set this to a level that eliminates common iron trash but doesn’t cut out potential targets.
Foil/Small Trash: You can further adjust discrimination to ignore smaller items like aluminum foil or pull tabs. Be cautious here, as some desirable items can register in this range.

I often run with a lower level of discrimination, especially in relic or gold hunting modes, and rely more on my audio interpretation. This approach helps ensure I don’t miss those marginal targets that can often be the most interesting finds. Mastering this balance is key to achieving the best settings for Xterra 705.

Pinpointing: Locating Your Target Precisely

Once your Xterra 705 signals a target, pinpointing is the process of accurately locating its exact position in the ground. This is essential for efficient digging and minimizing the size of your plug. The Xterra 705 has a dedicated pinpoint mode that greatly assists in this task.

Using the Pinpoint Function

1. Activate Pinpoint Mode: Press the Pinpoint button on your control panel. The detector will usually emit a continuous tone.
2. Sweep Over the Target Area: Sweep the coil slowly from side to side and front to back over the area where you received the signal.
3. Listen to the Tone: The tone will become louder and higher in pitch as you get closer to the center of the target.
4. Mark the Spot: When the tone is at its loudest and highest pitch, you’ve found the center. You can mark this spot with your foot or a digging tool.

Some detectorists also use the “sweep” method without the dedicated pinpoint button by slowly narrowing their sweeps until the signal is strongest in a small area. This precise location reduces the amount of soil you need to move, making your digging cleaner and more efficient. Effective pinpointing is a vital skill for any detectorist using the best settings for Xterra 705.

Ground Balance: Adapting to Mineralized Soil

Ground balance is a critical setting that helps your Xterra 705 ignore signals from minerals in the soil. Different types of soil have varying levels of mineralization, which can cause false signals or reduce the depth of your detector. The Xterra 705 offers both automatic and manual ground balancing, allowing you to adapt to diverse conditions.

Automatic Ground Balance

Most of the time, the automatic ground balance feature on the Xterra 705 works exceptionally well. To perform an auto ground balance:

1. Switch to All-Metal Mode: Ensure you are in All-Metal Mode (or Prospecting Mode for gold).
2. Hold Coil Off the Ground: Hold the coil about 6 inches above the ground, away from any metal objects.
3. Press and Hold the Ground Balance Button: Press and hold the Ground Balance button (often indicated by a small icon) and pump the coil up and down slowly, about 4-6 inches from the ground.
4. Release the Button: Release the button when the detector emits a steady tone, indicating it has balanced to the ground.

This process should be repeated if you move to an area with significantly different soil conditions. Proper ground balancing is foundational for achieving the best settings for Xterra 705.

Manual Ground Balance (Advanced)

While automatic is usually sufficient, manual ground balance gives you finer control. This is particularly useful in highly mineralized ground or when chasing very faint signals. The process involves adjusting the ground balance until the threshold hum is as quiet as possible. Consult your Xterra 705 manual for the precise steps on manual adjustment, as it can be a bit more nuanced.

Coil Selection: The Right Tool for the Job

The coil is the “eyes” of your metal detector, and choosing the right coil for your target and environment can dramatically impact your success. The Minelab Xterra 705 is compatible with a range of coils, each offering different advantages. Using the appropriate coil is a crucial part of achieving the best settings for Xterra 705.

Common Xterra 705 Coils and Their Uses

7×10 inch DD Coil: This is often the stock coil and is a great all-rounder. It performs well in moderately mineralized ground and offers good depth and coverage. It’s excellent for general coin and relic hunting.
9-inch Concentric Coil: Concentric coils tend to offer a bit more depth on non-ferrous targets (like coins) than DD coils of the same size, but they have a narrower detection pattern and are more susceptible to ground mineralization. This can be a good choice for cleaner ground.
10×5 inch DD Coil (Elliptical): This smaller, elliptical DD coil is fantastic for maneuvering through thick brush, tight spaces, and highly trashy areas. It offers excellent target separation and is less affected by mineralized soil. It’s a favorite for many relic hunters.
15-inch DD Coil: For maximum depth, especially in less mineralized soil, the larger 15-inch coil is the way to go. It covers more ground with each sweep, making it efficient for open fields, but it can be heavier and more prone to picking up EMI (Electromagnetic Interference).

Always ensure your detector’s settings are optimized for the specific coil you are using, as different coils have different electrical characteristics.

Advanced Settings: Notch Filter and Noise Cancel

Beyond the basic modes, the Xterra 705 offers advanced features like the Notch Filter and Noise Cancel that can further refine your detecting experience. These settings are particularly helpful in challenging environments or when dealing with persistent interference.

Notch Filter: Targeted Discrimination

The Notch Filter allows you to accept or reject specific target IDs within a narrow range. For example, if you’re consistently getting signals from small iron nails that fall into a specific ID range, you can “notch out” that range. This is more precise than general discrimination and can be very effective for cleaning up specific types of trash.

Noise Cancel (EMI Reduction)

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from power lines, other detectors, or electronic devices can cause your Xterra 705 to chatter erratically. The Noise Cancel feature helps to mitigate this by finding the least noisy frequency for your detector to operate on. You typically run this feature by pressing and holding a button and then sweeping the coil. It’s a lifesaver when detecting in areas with high EMI.

These advanced features can make a significant difference in your hunt, especially when you’re trying to eke out every last bit of performance from your Xterra 705. They are essential for truly mastering the best settings for Xterra 705.

Putting It All Together: Recommended Settings for Common Scenarios

Now that we’ve covered the individual components, let’s look at some practical, optimized settings for common hunting situations. Remember, these are starting points, and you should always fine-tune them based on your specific environment and the signals you’re getting.

Scenario 1: Park Hunting (Coins & Jewellery)

Mode: Coin/Jewellery
Sensitivity: Set to the highest stable level (usually 7-9).
Discrimination: Set Iron Mask to around 25-30. You might experiment with a slight notch out for pull tabs if they are a persistent problem, but be cautious not to cut out small rings.
Ground Balance: Auto ground balance in an open area.
Coil: 7×10 inch DD Coil.

This setup prioritizes finding common modern coins while filtering out a good amount of iron and foil.

Scenario 2: Old Field/Relic Hunting

Mode: Relic
Sensitivity: Set to the highest stable level (can be 6-8, as relic sites can be more mineralized).
Discrimination: Set Iron Mask low (15-20) or even lower if you’re willing to dig more iron. Consider using the Notch Filter to reject specific iron ID ranges if you know what to expect.
Ground Balance: Auto ground balance, repeating if necessary in different spots.
Coil: 7×10 inch DD Coil or 10×5 inch Elliptical DD Coil for better target separation.

Here, the goal is depth and the ability to detect a wider range of metallic objects, accepting that more trash will be encountered.

Scenario 3: Gold Prospecting

Mode: Prospecting
Sensitivity: Push this as high as it will go while maintaining stability. This might be lower (4-6) in highly mineralized ground.
Discrimination: Set to minimum or use All-Metal mode. Gold signals are often faint and can be masked by discrimination.
Ground Balance: Crucial here. Perform a precise auto ground balance, or use manual if you have experience. Re-balance frequently.
Coil: 7×10 inch DD Coil or a specialized smaller gold coil if available and compatible.

Prospecting requires maximum sensitivity to faint signals, often in challenging ground, so ground balance and stability are paramount.

Tips for Maximizing Your Xterra 705 Experience

Beyond just the settings, a few practical tips can significantly enhance your time in the field with your Xterra 705. These are the kind of nuggets of wisdom that come from years of swinging a detector.

Listen Carefully: Your ears are your best tool. Learn the different tones your Xterra 705 produces for various metals. A stable, repeatable signal is usually a good one.
Dig All Good Signals: Especially when starting out or in new areas, dig every repeatable signal that isn’t clearly iron. You’ll be surprised what you might find that doesn’t sound like a “perfect” coin signal.
Slow Down: Don’t rush your sweeps. Overlapping your sweeps and moving the coil slowly allows the detector more time to analyze the target.
Learn Your Coil’s Sweep Pattern: Understand how your coil detects targets. DD coils are generally more sensitive to targets directly under the center, while concentric coils have a more focused “sweet spot.”
Understand Target ID: The Xterra 705’s target ID numbers are guides, not gospel. Different target shapes, depths, and orientations can alter the ID. Always dig to confirm.
* Check Your Battery: A low battery can cause erratic behavior and reduced performance. Always start your hunt with fresh batteries.

These practices, combined with the best settings for Xterra 705, will lead to more successful and enjoyable hunts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Xterra 705 Settings

Here are answers to some common questions beginner detectorists have about optimizing their Xterra 705.

Q1: What is the best setting for general use on the Xterra 705?

A: For general use in parks and yards, the Coin/Jewellery mode with a sensitivity set to the highest stable level (around 7-9) and Iron Mask around 25-30 is an excellent starting point. Auto ground balance is usually sufficient.

Q2: How do I deal with false signals or chattering?

A: False signals are often caused by EMI or overly sensitive settings. Try reducing sensitivity by one or two notches. If EMI is suspected, use the Noise Cancel feature. Ensure your ground balance is set correctly for the soil conditions.

Q3: Can the Xterra 705 find gold?

A: Yes, the Xterra 705 has a dedicated Prospecting Mode designed for gold hunting. It requires careful ground balancing and running at the highest possible stable sensitivity to detect small gold nuggets.

Q4: Should I use the highest discrimination possible to avoid trash?

A: No, it’s generally not recommended to use the highest discrimination. High discrimination levels can mask good targets, especially thin rings, small gold jewelry, and certain relics. It’s better to dig more targets and learn to identify them by sound.

Q5: How often should I ground balance my Xterra 705?

A: You should perform an auto ground balance whenever you start detecting in a new area with different soil conditions, or if you notice the detector’s threshold tone becoming unstable. It’s a quick process that can significantly improve performance.

Q6: What does the ‘F’ on the target ID screen mean?

A: The ‘F’ on the target ID screen typically indicates a ferrous target, meaning iron. While the Xterra 705 has an Iron Mask setting, some very small or oddly shaped iron items might still register with an ‘F’ or a low-conductivity number.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Minelab Xterra 705 for Maximum Finds

The Minelab Xterra 705 is a remarkably capable detector, and understanding its settings is the key to unlocking its full potential. By carefully adjusting your mode, sensitivity, discrimination, and utilizing features like ground balance and pinpointing, you can transform your detecting experience. Remember that the “best settings for Xterra 705” are not static; they evolve with the terrain, target types, and your own growing experience. Practice, patience, and a willingness to experiment with these settings will undoubtedly lead to more rewarding hunts and a deeper connection with the world beneath your feet. Happy hunting!