I've never looked at radar detectors and know nothing about what's good and what just doesn't work. I'm looking to get a good one for as little as possible. If you guys could point me to a website that I can buy a good one at and maybe some personal ones used. Thanks

:confused: :eek: :confused:

 

Most use the Valentine 1 but its like $400.

 

Unfortunately good and inexpensive aren't two words that describe the same radar detector. You really get what you pay for. I like the Escort 8500. It will run you about $399.

 

I agree with RDRH8R in saying that you get what you pay for.

I too have the V1 as stated. I didn't shop around and went on the general consensus in the brand. It was simple to hard wire and I ordered the remote display. I mounted that on the console in front of the gas gauge. I took a bit of modeling clay and made a contoured base for the remote display to get the right angle for viewing by the driver. I then used 3M double sided tape to secure it. When I installed the new HU I also ran the wire through the center area and it is a total stealth setup. I ordered a mounting bracket from a vendor, can't remember which one, but it locates the V1 on the passenger side visor fastener. I took a trip to Idaho and through Oregon I was speeding and thought that I was invulnerable to the cops. Bam I got a ticket for 93/65. The detector didn't go off in time. I then used the V1's supplied bracket with the suction cups and mounted it just below the blue tint on the window and to the left of the mirror. I saw that with the other bracket it sat a little high in the blue and it degraded the detection abilities. Since I moved it I am picking them up like I should be.

It works like a charm but it does tend to send a few falses though. Also the ability to detect behind works great also. I also have picked up Laser well in advance with it.

I do recommend the V1 as I am sure most others will as well.

You do get what you pay for and I would not recommend scrimping on this little aspect. If you speed and want to feel a little more secure in you illegal operations then I would go for the gusto... :jester

www.valentine1.com

[Modified by MY2K2C5, 10:13 AM 9/25/2002]


[Modified by MY2K2C5, 10:15 AM 9/25/2002]

 

Good and inexpensive don't go together in the world of radar detectors.

 

If your interested, I'm selling my sons escort 8500. 220$ shipping included.
It's 7 months old. Call me at 573-421-0764 thanks Ed

 

Do not settle for less than a V-1. There is nothing that even compares at ANY PRICE...

 

 

Personally, I think as far as the "bang for the buck" is concerned, I don't think you can really go wrong between Passport 8500 and Valentine 1. :cheers:

 

:iagree:

Either the 8500 or V1, else drive slower.

 

Good and Inexpensive is a combination that doesn't exist in Radar Detectors.
The V1 will save you big bucks in the long run. :steering:

 

Paying $300-$400 for a good detector is cheap compared to paying a ticket and increased insurance premiums. Do the V1 or the Passport 8500. You can get a neat rearview mirror mount for the Passport for about $19.

 

BEL-985 Hard wired. $217 on E-bay :yesnod:
And it is AWESOME! :D

 

For those that are interested in getting the Passport 8500, I have it on sale for $259 with free S/H. :smash: :smash: :smash: Check out my post at http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zerothread?id=480782

Or my online webstore at http://www.tlelectronics.com/catalog...products_id=28

Both of these radar detectors (V1 & 8500) have their own pro's and con's. The Passport 8500 has several features that V1 doesn't, and vice versa.
I offer this deal because I personally feel that at $259 shipped, the Passport 8500 is a much better value than V1 at $399 plus shipping/handling. But with the cost aside, I honestly think all of you will be equally happy with either one. We have as many satisfied 8500 users as the V1.

:cheers:
-Tuan

 

I have had five in the last eight years,from the crappy ones (cobra and such )to the ESCORT 7500 and now the V1. If i knew now what i should of known then ,i could of saved money and tickets and bought the V1. It is the hands down the best thats out there.PERIOD! I get readings in congested areas miles and minutes ahead.It has never disapointed me. It is really an amazing device. :auto:

 

Get either the 8500 or V1, just remember laser is almost impossible to detect and you can't detect instant on radar until they turn it on, and by then it's too late. Detectors are great tools to use to help you drive, but they don't do all the work for you.

 

:iagree:

 

I personally have a Bel Vector 985. It has a two year warranty I believe.
I went to http://www.pricegrabber.com for the best price. Here's another site that rates Radar Detectors and also explains the principals behind it. Very informational no matter what brand you buy. The Bel Vector 985 also has a reflashable Motorola chip for future upgrades in technology.
http://www.speedzones.com/

So far, it has worked great and it rates well in independent tests.

:cheers:

 

Well, no one helped you, so I will. Most did not seem to notice you put "inexpensive" in your topic.

A couple of years ago I bought a Cobra 9100 at BestBuy for about $89 I think. Mine works great! I can pick up radar before I can even see the cop, usually about a mile away on a straight stretch. Is it the "best"? Probably not, but it has saved my azz many times. V1 is the only one with a rear antenna which I think would be great to have, but it's not worth $400 to me. Usually the radar will be coming at you anyways.

So ... if you want a decent "inexpensive one", I'd buy a Cobra. If I were going to spend anymore than $100 on one I'd opt for the V1 :cheers:

 

I got a V1 in the 95 EB Explorer and the new 91 Vette. I love to to hammer the metal... :)

Rob