As someone who spends countless hours swinging an XP metal detector, I’ve tested just about every XP accessory available—including their different headphone options. One of the most common questions I get is: Which XP headphones should I use with my XP Deus, Deus II, or ORX?
The answer? It depends. The right choice comes down to your detecting environment, comfort preferences, and even the season. While some detectorists prefer to go without headphones, I believe they’re essential for catching those faint, deep signals that might otherwise go unnoticed. Below is a detailed breakdown of XP’s headphone lineup, categorized by type and compatible detectors.
Wireless XP Headphones
For XP Deus II
Backphones (Lightweight & Open-Ear Design)
- WS6 – Compact, lightweight, and modular. Can be used as both a headphone and a control module.
- WSA II – Wireless backphones offering clear audio while keeping your ears more open to surroundings.
- BH-01 – Bone conduction backphones designed for underwater detecting. Transmits sound through vibrations while keeping ears free.
Full-Size Headphones (Maximum Noise Isolation & Comfort)
- WSA II-XL – Over-ear wireless headphones providing excellent noise isolation and durability.
For XP Deus and ORX
Backphones (Lightweight & Open-Ear Design)
- WS4 – Modular design with a detachable control module. Great for those who prefer a lightweight option.
- WSAudio – Wireless backphones for users who want an affordable yet effective audio solution.
- FX-03 – Lightweight wired backphones for those who prefer a direct audio connection.
Full-Size Headphones (Maximum Noise Isolation & Comfort)
- WS5 – Full-size, over-ear wireless headphones with outstanding sound quality and noise isolation.
Choosing the Right XP Headphones for Your Needs
Backphones (Lightweight & Open-Design for Situational Awareness)
✔ WS4 & WS6 – Ideal for those who want lightweight, modular, and breathable headphones for long hunts.
✔ WSA II – A great option for XP Deus II users who need comfort and wireless convenience.
✔ WSAudio – A budget-friendly alternative for wireless XP backphones.
✔ FX-03 – A simple wired backphone option for users who prefer non-wireless audio.
✔ BH-01 – Bone conduction backphones, allowing situational awareness while detecting, especially in wet conditions.
Full-Size Headphones (Maximum Noise Isolation & Audio Clarity)
✔ WS5 & WSA II-XL – The best choice for blocking out wind and ambient noise while providing superior sound quality.
How I Choose Which XP Headphones to Use
🔆 Hot, Sunny Days? I go with the WS4, WS6, or FX-03 backphones. They’re lightweight, breathable, and allow me to stay cool without sacrificing too much sound quality.
❄ Cold or Windy Conditions? The WS5 or WSA II-XL full-size headphones are the way to go. They block out distractions and keep my ears warm, making them ideal for winter or breezy beach hunts.
🌊 Underwater or Wet Conditions? The BH-01 bone conduction backphones are a must for Deus II users. They allow for full audio transmission even while submerged, making them perfect for beach and water hunts.
🚶♂️ Need to Stay Alert? If I’m detecting in public places or areas where I need to be aware of my surroundings, I’ll either use WS4, WS6, WSA II, or BH-01 backphones or wear WSA II-XL with one ear slightly uncovered.
Final Thoughts: Which XP Headphones Are Right for You?
XP offers a fantastic lineup of headphones tailored for different detecting environments. If comfort, modularity, and situational awareness are your priorities, the WS4, WS6, WSA II, FX-03, or BH-01 might be your best bet. For those who want the best noise isolation and sound quality, the WS5 and WSA II-XL deliver top-tier performance. And if you’re an XP Deus II user who hunts in wet environments, the BH-01 bone conduction backphones are a revolutionary option.
If you can, I recommend having multiple XP headphones in your gear bag—so you’re ready to adapt to any detecting environment. After all, the more you can hear, the better your chances of unearthing something incredible!
