We've been detecting for many years, and have used a variety of machines. Fisher has been in the business the longest, and they make excellent detectors, with 5 year warranty. At $200, the Fisher F2 is an outstanding machine, for land-based and beach detecting. The next one up in the F-series lineep is the F4. Same electronics, but comes with a double-D coil instead of a concentric coil. A little better able to discriminate in trashy areas, would be the main difference.
Garrett Ace 250 is an excellent and popular detector, and is the direct competitor to the F2. About $215. Same turn-on-and-go presets as Fisher, and also user can tweak settings to suit the conditions. 2 year warranty, but excellent reliability and customer service. You'll see Garretts being used on that popular metal detecting TV program.
Garrett and Fisher have built in speakers, and 1/4" headphone jacks. ALways best to use the headphones, to hear the faint (deeper) targets, and not annoy others around you. Garrett's Ace-350 is their next model up, and like the F4, comes with a double-D coil.
These are the detectors I would suggest to look at, as you will find them easy to use, capable and reliable. Other brands have similar products at somewhat higher prices. Let me know if you have any other questions, and happy hunting.
