Quest V80 and V60 EMI Problem: When Silence Isn’t Golden
In my previous review of the Quest V60 and V80, I mentioned that I had not experienced any of the EMI noise issues reported by other users. And that these machines seemed to be well-specified, have good build quality and performed perfectly—until today!
The Problem
This morning, I took both the V60 and V80 to the beach for more testing, but this time, I entered the beach near the pier. It was my first time testing these machines by the pier. Upon powering up the V80, the first thing I noticed was the constant chatter. I tried noise canceling, but it did nothing. I switched modes and frequencies, but that didn’t help either. I even lowered the sensitivity to the minimum, which only slightly reduced the noise, but it remained persistent.
In the end, the only way to stop the machine from making this awful noise was to move away from the pier. Once I did, normal performance resumed. This was incredibly disappointing, given how well the machines had worked until now. The V60 behaved in exactly the same way but also quieted down as soon as I moved away from the pier.
In contrast, every other machine I’ve tested recently did not suffer from EMI issues near the pier. The Nokta Score and Double Score performed fine. The Minelab Equinox and Vanquish were perfectly silent, and even the Garrett Apex was as quiet as the grave. So, this isn’t a general issue that can just be dismissed.
I suspect the problem lies in the coil shielding on the V60 and V80. The clue is that the firmware updates Quest has released for the V-Series machines haven’t resolved the issue, and now it seems that these models are being discontinued just one year after going on sale, in favor of the new S-Line, which features improved “double-shielded” coils. The fact that Quest is emphasizing the extra shielding suggests they know the issue with the V-Series machines is the coil, not the firmware and are not making the same mistake again with the new machines.
Conclusions
Quest hasn’t resolved the noise issue for V60/V80 owners, instead choosing to discontinue these machines and launch a new product line. This decision raises concerns for those who invested in V60 or V80. They trusted Quest, but it appears the company may have deliberately abandoned them. While the truth may be uncertain, the optics are not favorable for Quest.
I’ve heard that the coils for the new S-Series might be compatible with the V-Series. If this proves true, Quest may replace coils for V-Series owners under warranty. However, this information comes from third parties and Quest hasn’t responded to my inquiries.
My advice to anyone who bought a Quest V60 or V80 is to consider returning it under warranty, as it’s not fit for purpose. You may not have encountered the noise issues yet, but you’ll likely experience them soon, especially when the warranty expires. There’s no official word on a fix, and it doesn’t seem Quest has learned from past interactions with customers and dealers that engaging with them is crucial.
Alternatives
If you’re considering buying a Quest V60 or V80 right now, I strongly advise against it. There are more reliable alternatives available that offer similar or lower prices and come from companies that prioritize excellent customer support.
Here are some alternative options you might want to explore. These are all simultaneous multi-frequency detectors, with some models also featuring selectable single frequencies.
Minelab X-TERRA Elite Expedition Pack – £589.00
Nokta Legend – £599.99
Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack – £499.95
Rutus Versa – £699.00
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.