An ideal first detector,
Type: Heterodyne
Frequency Range: 20-140 kHz
Bandwidth: 8 kHz
Type of Microphone: Ceramic piezo
Outputs: Headphone socket
Size: 14 x 8 x 3.5cm
Weight: 260g
Power: 9V alkaline battery
Also available as a self assemby kit
Read about alternatives to the Magenta Electronics MK2b in the Miscellaneous section.
Author
JoeF Active Member
Registered: June 2007 Location: Near Staithes in North Yorkshire Posts: 33
Review Date: Tue 3, July, 2007
Would you recommend it? Yes |
Total Spent: £52.00| Rating: 7
Strengths:
Good clear audio
Weaknesses:
No illuminated frequency reading
This is one of the cheapest heterodyne detectors on the market and I've reviewed it as such. Physically it's a simple ABS box with volume and frequency controls on the front panel a format which is cheap to make (no custom mouldings) but unfortunately not great for hand holding. It's larger than most other detectors which does not help either. Nevertheless, it can be operated with one hand without difficulty.
One real downside is the lack of an illuminated display. This would really help, not to make identification easier through a more accurate readout, but simply to get back to the 50khz (pipistrelle) position when you have been scanning up and down the range in the dark looking for other species.
Another downside is that the sensitivity drops off at each extreme of the range so Noctules and Horseshoes are harder to detect. This is not a particular fault however as many other detectors are equally insensitive at their extremes.
So whats to like?
Well the audio is very good and can be turned up quite loud making it ideal for use by groups. It's reasonably directional and sensitive so bats are easy to track and 9 times out of 10 you will hear the bats before you see them. Also, the lack of bells and whistles means that battery life is very good, even with the volume up.
It's also equipped with an earphone socket and tape socket so you can listen in peace or make recordings which is a nice touch. I've also found it to be quite rugged and it shakes off the odd knock or splash which is reassuring when your fumbling around in the dark.
So in summary, if you just want to go out and listen to bats, this detector will suit you fine, especially at the price.
------------------------------ If you wish to see you must first learn to walk unseen.
