What Makes the Nokta Makro Simplex Special
The Nokta Makro Simplex stands out in the entry-level metal detector market for its impressive combination of features and affordability. Released in 2020, this detector quickly gained popularity among both beginners and experienced detectorists looking for a reliable backup machine.
The Simplex operates at 12 kHz frequency, making it versatile for detecting various targets including coins, jewelry, relics, and even some gold nuggets. Its waterproof design up to 10 feet (3 meters) allows you to search in shallow water without worry.
What really sets the Simplex apart is its wireless audio capability. Unlike many detectors in its price range that require wired headphones, the Simplex includes a built-in wireless module that works with Nokta Makro’s WS-1 headphones or any Bluetooth adapter.
Key Features at a Glance
– Fully submersible up to 10 feet (3 meters)
– 12 kHz operating frequency
– Wireless audio capability
– 4 search modes (Park, Field, Beach, Gold)
– 3 target ID modes
– Notch discrimination
– Iron volume control
– Rechargeable battery with 12+ hours runtime
– Lightweight design at 2.8 lbs (1.27 kg)
Unboxing and Initial Setup
When you first open your Nokta Makro Simplex package, you’ll find the detector itself, a coil cover, a rechargeable battery pack, a USB charging cable, and a user manual. The assembly process is straightforward – simply attach the search coil to the lower rod, connect the middle rod, and then attach the upper rod with the control box.
Before your first hunt, charge the battery fully using the included USB cable. The battery indicator on the control panel will show charging status. A full charge typically takes 3-4 hours and provides 12-15 hours of detecting time, depending on usage patterns.
Assembly Tips for New Users
– Adjust the length so the detector rests comfortably at your side when standing upright
– Ensure the coil cable is properly threaded through the lower rod to prevent damage
– Tighten all camlocks securely but don’t over-tighten
– Test the detector’s functions before heading out to your hunting site
Understanding the Control Panel
The Simplex features an intuitive control panel that’s easy to navigate even for complete beginners. The large LCD screen displays essential information including target ID numbers, depth indicators, battery level, and current settings.
Basic Controls Explained
– Power Button: Turns the detector on/off and accesses quick menus
– Menu Button: Enters the main settings menu
– Plus/Minus Buttons: Adjust settings and navigate menus
– Pinpoint Button: Activates pinpoint mode for precise target location
The control panel is designed with practicality in mind – all buttons are large enough to operate with gloves, and the screen is bright enough to read in direct sunlight.
Search Modes and Their Applications
The Nokta Makro Simplex offers four distinct search modes, each optimized for specific hunting conditions and target types.
Park Mode
Park mode is designed for general coin shooting in parks and schoolyards. It features a moderate discrimination pattern that rejects most iron while accepting coins and other valuable targets. This mode is ideal for beginners as it provides a good balance between target acceptance and trash rejection.
Field Mode
Field mode is optimized for relic hunting in agricultural areas and fields. It offers a more open discrimination pattern to detect a wider range of metals, including iron relics that might be valuable to collectors. The sensitivity is slightly reduced compared to Park mode to handle mineralized soil conditions.
Beach Mode
Beach mode is specifically designed for saltwater beaches. It includes ground balancing features to handle the high mineralization found in wet beach sand. This mode is also effective for detecting in freshwater environments like lakes and rivers.
Gold Mode
Gold mode operates with maximum sensitivity to detect small gold nuggets and jewelry. It uses a more aggressive discrimination pattern to reject iron targets while maintaining sensitivity to small gold items. This mode works best in areas known for gold deposits.
Ground Balancing and Mineralization
One of the Simplex’s standout features is its automatic ground balancing capability. This function continuously adjusts the detector’s response to changing soil conditions, allowing you to maintain optimal performance without manual adjustments.
When to Use Manual Ground Balancing
While automatic ground balancing works well in most situations, you might want to use manual ground balancing in extremely mineralized areas. To do this, press and hold the menu button, navigate to ground balance, and follow the on-screen instructions to manually adjust the setting.
Audio Settings and Target Identification
The Nokta Makro Simplex offers several audio options to help you identify targets before digging.
Iron Volume Control
The iron volume feature allows you to adjust how the detector responds to iron targets. You can set it to low, medium, or high, or even turn it off completely. This is particularly useful in areas with heavy iron contamination, as it helps you focus on more desirable targets.
Target ID Numbers
The detector displays target ID numbers from 0 to 99, with different ranges corresponding to different types of metals. For example, coins typically read between 40-60, while iron targets register below 20. Learning these number ranges will help you make better decisions about which targets to dig.
Pinpointing and Recovery Speed
The pinpointing function is essential for accurately locating targets once you’ve received a signal. Press and hold the pinpoint button while sweeping the coil side to side over the target area. The detector will emit a constant tone when directly over the target, and the depth indicator will show approximately how deep the target is buried.
Improving Recovery Speed
The Simplex has a respectable recovery speed, allowing you to detect targets close together. To maximize this capability, keep your coil parallel to the ground and maintain a consistent sweep speed of about 3-4 feet per second. Overlapping your sweeps by about 50% ensures you don’t miss any targets.
Coil Options and Accessories
The standard coil that comes with the Simplex is an 11-inch concentric coil, which provides excellent depth and target separation. But Nokta Makro offers several additional coil options for specialized applications.
Recommended Accessories
– Nokta Makro WS-1 Wireless Headphones: Designed specifically for the Simplex’s wireless capability
– Extra Battery Pack: For extended detecting sessions
– Coil Cover: Protects your search coil from scratches and damage
– Digging Tool: A sturdy trowel or shovel for recovering targets
Practical Tips for Getting the Most from Your Simplex
1. Practice in Your Backyard First
Before heading to your favorite hunting spot, spend some time practicing with your Simplex in your backyard. Bury different types of metal objects at various depths and practice identifying them using the target ID numbers and audio tones.
2. Learn to Interpret Signals
Not all signals are created equal. Pay attention to the signal’s strength, consistency, and repeatability. A good target will give a repeatable signal when you sweep over it from different directions, while trash targets often produce inconsistent signals.
3. Master the Pinpointing Technique
Effective pinpointing saves time and reduces damage to the recovery area. Practice the “X technique” – sweep the coil in a cross pattern over the target area to pinpoint the exact location before digging.
4. Keep Your Coil Parallel to the Ground
Maintaining proper coil control is essential for optimal performance. Keep the search coil parallel to the ground and at a consistent height (about 1-2 inches above the surface) throughout your sweep.
5. Use the Right Search Mode
Don’t default to Park mode for every situation. Experiment with different search modes to find what works best for your specific hunting location and target type.
Maintenance and Care
The Nokta Makro Simplex is built to withstand tough conditions, but proper maintenance will extend its lifespan and ensure reliable performance.
Cleaning After Use
After each detecting session, especially in saltwater environments, rinse the coil and lower rod with fresh water and dry thoroughly. Avoid using high-pressure water directly on the control box, even though it’s waterproof.
Battery Care
To maximize battery life, avoid completely draining the battery before recharging. The lithium-ion battery pack performs best when kept between 20% and 80% charge. Store the detector with a partial charge if you won’t be using it for extended periods.
Storage Tips
Store your Simplex in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If possible, disassemble the detector for long-term storage to prevent stress on the connection points.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
False Signals
If you’re experiencing false signals, check for electromagnetic interference from power lines or other electronic devices. Reduce sensitivity if necessary, and ensure your coil cable is properly connected and not damaged.
Weak Signals
Weak or inconsistent signals can result from low battery power, improper ground balancing, or excessive mineralization. Check your battery level, try automatic ground balancing again, and reduce sensitivity if hunting in highly mineralized soil.
Audio Problems
If you’re experiencing audio issues with wireless headphones, ensure they’re properly paired with the detector. For wired headphones, check the connection and try a different pair to rule out equipment issues.
Comparing the Simplex to Other Detectors
The Nokta Makro Simplex competes directly with detectors like the Garrett Ace 400, Fisher F22, and Minelab Vanquish series. While each has its strengths, the Simplex stands out for its waterproof capability, wireless audio, and overall feature set at its price point.
Simplex vs. Garrett Ace 400
The Ace 400 offers slightly better target separation and a wider frequency range, but it’s not waterproof and lacks wireless audio capability. The Simplex is generally considered more versatile due to its waterproof design.
Simplex vs. Fisher F22
The Fisher F22 is another waterproof option, but it lacks the wireless capability and has a smaller LCD screen. The Simplex offers more advanced features and better overall performance.
Who Should Buy the Nokta Makro Simplex?
The Simplex is an excellent choice for:
– Beginners looking for a feature-rich detector that will grow with their skills
– Experienced detectorists needing a reliable waterproof backup detector
– Detectorists who want wireless audio capability without spending a fortune
– Anyone planning to detect in shallow water or wet conditions
Final Thoughts
The Nokta Makro Simplex represents exceptional value in the metal detecting market. It combines professional-level features like waterproofing, wireless audio, and multiple search modes with an entry-level price point. Whether you’re just starting out or adding to your detector collection, the Simplex offers the performance and versatility to support your detecting adventures for years to come.
Remember that the best detector is the one you’ll use regularly, and the Simplex’s combination of features, ease of use, and affordability makes it a detector you’ll be excited to take out on every hunt.