Here you will find my custom built waterproof metal detecting headphones called the Hydra-HPs. I have several models now depending on your preference and use. There is the M1’s, M2’s and M3’s. Each are unique to their design and are hand made to order.
As you can see these are crafted with care in mind to every detail. I started making these because I started to see that most aftermarket waterproof headphones really lacked comfort, quality and overall dynamics in sound. Many also do not use audio receivers and use peizos that generally sound stale. So out of spite, I decided to make my own and it has evolved over the years to something better than those other “guys” I won’t care to mention.
Hydra-HP-M1
The M1’s are the most common and use the Audiosears receivers for some of the best audio response possible. These particular speakers are waterproofed in a custom made housing and is made to handle wet conditions like hunting in the rain or in deep water. They can get wet and dunked underwater but they are not meant for diving purposes.
The original headset was rated at 33db-28db SNR but the cheap open cell foam is replaced with closed cell foam since it is water resistant and helps keep the same noise ratio.
Hydra-HP-M2
The M2’s are the same but they waterproofed in the front differently in order to withstand the water pressure of diving. As a result, the sound levels are slightly lower but still very acceptable for use with your detector. Nor are these filled with closed cell foam.
However these can be used on the beach or wherever.
Hydra-HP-M3
The M3’s are different as well. They use a piezo driver instead and sound a bit different. They are diving capable but not bright sounding as the other two. These are more recommended for the Excalibur user who likes to hunt in pinpoint/all metal mode. Not as common but some users like these for their response in all metal and can help give a little more distinction to the sounds.
Connector Type:
For the connector type, it will all depend on what you are using.
For the Excalibur, it can come in a couple different ways. But the main thing is, you have to wire it through an end cap. So if you need an end cap, that will be an extra charge and additional fee if you want a connector with it instead of it directly wired through the end cap with out a connector on it.
I don’t recommend a connector on the end cap if its for diving.
For the Minelab Equinox, I make a custom connector to match that of the stock 3.5mm plug type on the M12 connector which can be a straight or 90 connector type.
This connector type will also work on other Minelab detectors like the Manticore and Xterra.
There is the Sea Ghost type as well which will depend on the model, but it uses a M12 with specific pins depending on which one it is. So far I have not seen a difference in the Pinout but I heard they are different for the newer cases like the 700, 900 and Manticore.
Over the years I have made some posts on the various headsets made here so if you want see more, feel free to check out these prior posts as well:
https://detectingunderground.com/upgraded-minelab-waterproof-hydra-hps/
https://detectingunderground.com/new-fully-waterproof-hydra-hp-headphones/
https://detectingunderground.com/hydra-hp-elite-headphones/
https://detectingunderground.com/equinox-and-excalibur-hydra-hps/
Pricing, Ordering & Shipping Info:
Current price is $150.00 plus shipping and I take Zelle, Venmo, or Paypal once they are ready to ship.
By default the Hydra-HP’s come in black. If you want a different color, please let me know and what model number you want (ie M1, M2, or the M3).
Please state your connector type or what kind of detector you are using.
For ordering, please contact me direct or on the forums.
You can contact me two different ways. I go by the username of Saltshaker so if you are on any of the detecting forums, particularly the friendly one, then you can reach me there via PM. Otherwise, email me from the address below. You need to put the email together for:
detectingunderground at yahoo dot com.
Turnaround time can take up to a week. As I said, these are made to order but on rare occasions, I may have some made on hand and can ship within a day. But parts also may be on order so sometimes there could be delays. Either way, I will give you a complete update and ETA. For shipping, I generally will use UPS which can range from $15 on up depending on your location from Florida. If USPS is preferred, then I can try to accommodate that. Please just let me know. If you have any other questions or concerns. Please let me know. Thanks!