A $16 HF Centech is affordable, and does the job. Most of what you read about the Propointer, is hype and coolness factor. Wouldn't bother me at all to go back to the Centech. Even with the speaker hole plug on the Propointer, think it's still too loud. Replaced the beeper in the Centech with a vibrating motor, no noise at all. I understand working with electronics is for everyone, but the Centech is real easy to modify to better suit your preferences. It's not as sturdy as the Propointer, but I don't shove mine in the ground like a tent stake either. My soil is loose, sandy, still don't dig around with it, tip rarely touches dirt. Super-tuning? Why even bring your metal detector, if you can narrow down the target. Usually have a pretty good idea about depth and location, be setting down the machine to dig. Sure, the propinter is a sturdy, really cool gadget, but not really going to stop hunting without it. Something is seriously wrong, if you really need to buy two or more, just to be sure you always have one functional unit. Never had an issue with the Centech, but my Propointer needs to be sent in for repair (7 months of use). $12 Timex, or $2600 Rolex, both keep time...