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s846799379's avatar
s846799379
Honored Guest
1 month ago

Low-Frequency Buzzing Issue with Quest 3s Built-in Speakers

My Quest 3s speakers produce a buzzing/rattling sound at extremely low frequencies (approximately 60-40 Hz), both during gaming and video playback. Since most content doesn't frequently utilize such low frequencies, this issue can be easy to miss. In fact, it took me about two months of use to notice the problem, though it likely existed from the moment I unboxed the device. However, when I use headphones, everything works perfectly fine.

 

I have tried almost every troubleshooting method, including system updates and resetting the device to factory settings, but nothing has resolved it. I'm unsure whether this is a hardware issue or a system/firmware problem. If it were a hardware defect, it seems unlikely that both speakers would exhibit the exact same issue, even down to the identical faulty frequency range (both below 60 Hz). Therefore, I'm leaning toward it being a firmware-related problem.

 

3 Replies

  • It's probably more of a design issue; the built-in speakers can't handle much bass. Maybe turn the volume down a notch or use headphones with better bass response. If the problem is constant and a serious problem, you could try a warranty return, but be advised Meta will send you a refurbished unit that might be older than your 2-month old headset. You could try to get a refund, perhaps, especially if you didn't buy directly from Meta, then buy another new headset, but that depends on where you purchased from and their refund policy.

    Given that it took 2 months before you even noticed the issue, I guess it is not serious, so probably just ignore it.

  • Maccyb123's avatar
    Maccyb123
    Expert Trustee

    There is no buzzing in my Quest 3s even at highest volume. It could be firmware but there is a possibility for hardware too. Sometimes a speaker unit can come loose inside and certain frequencies can cause it to vibrate. Is there a chance the speaker arm took a hit or was the headset dropped? As a music freak playing around with audio equipment in my younger days I found that even the slightest movement caused buzzing from a loose speaker. I found this issue even on the tiny speaker on an old Samsung phone I had. I jerry rigged a bit of putty around it and the buzz was gone. I'm not suggesting it is definitely the problem and I don't advise popping it open! 😁 But, you can definitely play Quest 3s at high volume without buzzing. So something isn't right. I'd contact support if I were you as it might get worse over time if it's a hardware problem. 

  • Maccyb123's avatar
    Maccyb123
    Expert Trustee

    Note. I meant to say if, when you are using headphones it's perfect, it's more likely to be a physical problem with the speaker, particularly if it's more noticeable just on one side. If it's both sides, it's likely firmware. You could try a reset maybe?