Whites Metal Detectors Discontinued

In February 2020, Whites Electronics announced they were closing after 70+ years in business. This shocked the metal detecting community.

What Happened: - Whites was acquired by Garrett in 2020 - The Sweet Home, Oregon factory closed - Production of all Whites models ceased - Service/parts became limited

Legacy: Whites pioneered many technologies we take for granted today: - First VLF discriminator (1960s) - Ground-canceling technology - Professional prospecting detectors

Current Situation: - No new Whites detectors being made - Used models still available - Parts increasingly scarce - Many owners seeking alternatives

The Whites MXT was a legendary all-purpose detector known for its coin-shooting prowess.

Best MXT Alternatives:

Minelab Equinox 800 ($899) - Multi-frequency covers all MXT strengths - Better waterproofing - Wireless headphones included - Modern Target ID system

Nokta Legend ($599) - Excellent coin response - Multi-frequency technology - More affordable option - Very similar ergonomics

Garrett AT Pro ($629) - Similar price point to MXT - True all-terrain capability - Pro Audio features - Made in USA like Whites was

Bottom Line: The Equinox 800 is the closest modern equivalent to the MXT's versatility.

The Spectra V3i was Whites' flagship with its advanced display and multiple frequencies.

Best Spectra Alternatives:

Minelab Manticore ($1,599) - 2D Target ID surpasses Spectra's - True simultaneous multi-frequency - Modern touchscreen interface - Best discrimination available

XP Deus II ($1,399+) - Wireless design - Multiple frequency options - Fast recovery speed - Customizable to extreme degree

Minelab Equinox 900 ($1,099) - Control Pod+ adds functionality - Multi-IQ simultaneous frequencies - Better value than Manticore - Handles all Spectra's use cases

Note: Nothing truly replaces the Spectra's unique interface, but modern detectors offer better performance.

The TDI (Turn-on-and-Dig-It) was a popular pulse induction detector for gold prospecting.

Best TDI Alternatives:

Minelab GPX 6000 ($5,999) - The gold standard for PI prospecting - Incredible sensitivity to small gold - Lighter than older PI units - No manual ground balance needed

Garrett ATX ($2,195) - Military-grade durability - Similar PI technology - Folds compact for travel - Excellent in salt water too

Nokta/Makro Gold Kruzer ($499) - VLF alternative, not PI - Budget-friendly option - 61 kHz for small gold - Waterproof to 15 feet

Budget Option: For casual prospectors, a high-frequency VLF like the Minelab Gold Monster 1000 ($899) offers good performance at lower cost.

The MX Sport was Whites' waterproof offering, popular for beach hunting.

Best MX Sport Alternatives:

Nokta Simplex+ ($279) - Fully waterproof to 10 feet - Better value - Similar weight and ergonomics - Wireless headphones available

Minelab Vanquish 540 ($449) - Multi-IQ technology - IP68 waterproof - Multiple coil options - Lightweight design

Garrett AT Max ($799) - True all-terrain performance - Z-Lynk wireless - Better ground handling - Built-in backlight

Best Value: The Simplex+ offers 90% of the MX Sport's capability at 40% of its original price.

With Whites out of business, should you still consider used models?

Pros of Buying Used Whites: - Great detectors at lower prices - Proven performance - Strong community knowledge - Parts still available (for now)

Cons: - No manufacturer support - Parts becoming scarce - No warranty - Technology not advancing - Resale value uncertain

Models Still Worth Buying Used: 1. MXT ($300-500 used) - If in good condition 2. DFX ($200-400 used) - Classic relic hunter 3. Spectra V3i ($600-900 used) - If you want that display

Our Advice: Unless you find an exceptional deal on a well-maintained Whites, put your money toward a new detector with warranty and support. The Nokta Simplex+ at $279 new outperforms many used Whites models.