A parallel seismic tester utilizing a cone penetrometer to test the depth of a foundation or the like comprises three important elements: the cone penetrometer which houses a receiver, an impactor to impact the structure, and data gathering and analyzing equipment. The receiver may comprise a hydrophone, a geophone, or accelerometers. In the case where the receiver is a hydrophone, the hydrophone is embedded in a plastic, water filled container within the cone penetrometer head, and the head retracts prior to running tests.