Let me pick your brain.....

[Wyatt Earp]

I don't really have a dog in this race. I think Joanne will be able to figure out which machine she's able to interface with the best. That has much to do with being successful in this hobby. You have to reach a point where you are comfortable with your machine and understand it's language. The detector with the lesser learning curve is the one I'd be looking for.

Wyatt

[Out4gold]

I have been familiar with the Garrett line since the late 60(s).
The ace 250 is without a doubt one of their best efforts. This being one of their most reasonable they have produced.
I got to use one on a club hunt and it beat my 350 out for targeting and weight. There is a side to them that some men may find offensive it being yellow and all, but it can be seen for quite a ways.
Women may find it attractive though. That little yellow fellow is showing up at more and more hunts!

If you decide on a 250 you may have to wait on it there is quite a demand for them. That is unless your distributor has them in stock. I think that as unlikely.

Good luck on your next machine.

Out4gold