Quest V80 and V60 EMI Problem: When Silence Isn’t Golden
In my previous review of the Quest V60 and V80, I noted that I hadn’t encountered the EMI noise issues reported by other users. I praised the machines for their solid specifications, good build quality, and excellent performance—and they lived up to that reputation until today!
The Problem
This morning, I tested both the V60 and V80 at the beach, entering near the pier for the first time. Upon powering up the V80, I immediately noticed constant chatter. Noise cancelling had no effect, and switching modes and frequencies didn’t help either. Even lowering the sensitivity to the minimum only slightly reduced the noise, which remained persistent.
The only way to eliminate the noise was to move away from the pier, after which the machines returned to normal performance. This was disappointing, given their previous reliability. The V60 behaved similarly but also quieted down once I moved away from the pier.
In contrast, other detectors I’ve tested, including the Nokta Score, Minelab Equinox, Minelab Vanquish, and Garrett Apex, experienced no EMI issues near the pier, so this problem can’t be dismissed as a general limitation.
I suspect the issue lies in the coil shielding or the control box. Disconnecting the coil didn’t resolve the noise, which suggests a control box issue. Quest’s firmware updates for the V-Series haven’t fixed the problem, and now these models are being discontinued in favor of the new S-Line, which features “double-shielded” coils. Quest’s emphasis on improved shielding implies they believe the problem is with the coil rather than the firmware.
I’ve since determined that a nearby club or bar just down from the pier is the source of the EMI. The issue isn’t present before the club opens but appears once it’s operational.
Conclusions
Quest has not addressed the noise issue affecting V60 and V80 users, instead opting to discontinue these models in favor of a new product line. This decision raises concerns for those who invested in the V-Series, as it appears Quest may have abandoned their existing customers. While the full story is unclear, the optics are undeniably unfavorable for the company.
There are rumors that the new S-Series coils might be compatible with the V-Series, and if true, Quest could potentially offer coil replacements under warranty. However, this information is based on third-party sources, and Quest has yet to respond to my inquiries.
That said, if you own a V60 or V80, it remains an excellent machine. It delivers impressive depth and, in most conditions, can compete with the best detectors on the market. As long as you’re searching in areas free from EMI interference, the V60 and V80 perform exceptionally well.
To be fair, even the XP Deus II occasionally encounters EMI issues, so some criticism may be unwarranted. However, it’s worth noting that none of the Nokta, Minelab, or Garrett models I’ve tested in the same location have experienced similar EMI problems. Coincidence? Perhaps—but it’s certainly worth considering.
Alternatives
If you’re considering purchasing a Quest V60 or V80, I’d advise caution, primarily because these models have been discontinued. While they’re still capable detectors, there are alternatives on the market that offer similar features and come from manufacturers with a stronger track record for customer support.
Below are some excellent alternatives to consider. These are all simultaneous multi-frequency detectors, with some also offering selectable single frequencies:
•Nokta Legend
•Minelab Equinox 700/900
•Minelab Vanquish Series
•XP Deus II
•Garrett Apex
•Rutus Versa
Each of these options provides solid performance, reliability, and support, making them a worthy investment for anyone in the market for a high-quality detector.
Links
Spin A Disc UK Quest Dealer/Distributor
Treasure Hunting World Facebook
A very comprehensive and detailed review indeed , I’ve looked at Quest from a far several times over the last few years but have never took the plunge , having been a detectorist for over 40 years I enjoy trying new machines and always hope there will be something new bought to the table , I’m very much involved with helping people with mental health issues and often take service men out for a few hours , I need a couple of new machines to replace old ones I’m thinking a Q 35 might be a viable option and my chance to dip my toes into the world of quest machines
Quest are fine with their single frequency machines and the Q35 is good all rounder. Their early machines such as the Q20 and Q40 were also good but were plagued by coil issues. Third-party coils sorted that but should customers really be expected to dump the original coil and spend more cash on an aftermarket one? The biggest problem with Quest has always been their customer service and customer engagement. Service is patchy and engagement is non-existent. Getting a response from the company is a complete lottery and has been for years. Now at the tail end of 2024, nothing has changed.