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It's time for a new radar detector purchase

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Old 05-07-2018, 09:19 PM
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HorsePower Junkie
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Default It's time for a new radar detector purchase

Hi.Guys,

It's time for a new Radar Detector purchase.

So without those who want to start with saying go plow through the 5 million old threads on this, can we please have a nice discussion from Corvette Forum Members who actually have, and frequently use, a Radar Detector / Radar Locator, that you really like, who have tried other brands, and have found one you like better than the others, and describe why please...

Many Thanks!


.
Old 05-07-2018, 09:28 PM
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JonMN
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Lots of options. I have had several of them. I settled years ago on the V1 and am still happy with it. But part of the reason I like it so much is that it fits my driving locations perfectly. I drive almost exclusively in an area that uses Ka, so I cut everything except Ka and then fine-tuned the Ka scanning with my iPhone app to focus on Ka bands in use. Laser is left on too.

Actually thinking about a Radenso remote system . . . if I can figure a way to get a wire thru the firewall.
Old 05-07-2018, 09:35 PM
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saleen556
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The latest Uniden R3 is the new range king. I have it with the blendmount and love it.
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Old 05-07-2018, 09:41 PM
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Suds
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I have used Escort since the early 80's. I have 3 of the older X50's and one of the Max 360's, I keep a radar detector in every vehicle I own.
The new technology that uses GPS to reduce false alerts works well on the new Max 360.

OP, what part of Houston are you in?

Last edited by Suds; 05-07-2018 at 09:42 PM.
Old 05-07-2018, 11:12 PM
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cowboy casey
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Uniden R3 hands down.
Old 05-07-2018, 11:35 PM
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WICKEDFRC
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Escort 9500IX here.

Uniden R3, how long is "long range" when most detectors alert you over a mile out?

Don't need **** beeping for 2 minutes and I am sure you would not need two miles to slow down.

Read reviews before you choose. I just went with the 9500IX based on reviews at that time. A little more expensive than the R3 for sure.
Old 05-07-2018, 11:53 PM
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george vee
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I use the Max360. The arrows let me know where the threat is coming from ,especially if he is coming from behind and then popo backs down when he sees me, figuring I will start to speed.
Another example I have come across is 2 speed traps within a mile of each other, popo figures you past the trap so you start to speed again , the Max 360 will show radar behind you and the the front threat gets picked up. a #2 will appear letting you know there are 2 radar guns in use 1 front and the one you past.
I mount it where it cannot be seen from behind and yes it works fine there.I use velcro and move it from car to car.


Last edited by george vee; 05-07-2018 at 11:53 PM.
Old 05-08-2018, 12:02 AM
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owc6
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george, can you show us a few more pics of your mounting system and cord run? I like the idea, because I live in the DMV, and regularly drive in the two-thirds of this area where they aren't looked upon kindly.

Not sure why you think it needs to be hidden; it's perfectly legal where you are.
Old 05-08-2018, 12:08 AM
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1954
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I've had a V1 for over 10 years but lost faith in radar detectors about a year ago here in Arizona. On a trip from Phoenix to Laughlin I got a speeding ticket and the cop used the old fashion method, stop watch using the mile markers. He had me clocked at the exact speed I was going which was 83 in a 65. Maybe need to go back to the CB radio days- 10-4 good buddy there's a smoky up ahead!!
Old 05-08-2018, 12:13 AM
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Superstar555
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Originally Posted by saleen556
The latest Uniden R3 is the new range king. I have it with the blendmount and love it.
This. End of thread.
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Old 05-08-2018, 12:18 AM
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Superstar555
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Originally Posted by WICKEDFRC
Escort 9500IX here.

Uniden R3, how long is "long range" when most detectors alert you over a mile out?

Don't need **** beeping for 2 minutes and I am sure you would not need two miles to slow down.

Read reviews before you choose. I just went with the 9500IX based on reviews at that time. A little more expensive than the R3 for sure.
The Uniden R3 stomps the Escort in *every* test. They aren't even in the same ballpark any more.

Also, the Uniden can be set to mute unless you are over a certain speed so set it for 65 (or whatever) and it wont make another peep after you stab the brakes 2 miles out from the source.
Old 05-08-2018, 12:28 AM
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GS583
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I have a Uniden R3 and an Escort Max 360c. The Uniden is definitely the more distance responsive of the two but only by about a second or two when they are side by side which actually can cause problems in affecting range from coupling between the detectors. I guess if you are driving at 100 mph in a 55 zone it may make a difference but if you are in the +10 range there really isn't enough difference to worry about unless the cop is using instant on or LIDAR. In that case he probably just handed you your butt in a basket. The Escort is much more civil around town after it begins to learn and mute X band signals in the areas you normally drive. The R3 is not too bad though as I have mine set to give 2 beeps and then go into a quieter alert. Really not too bad to live with. I do like the arrows on the 360 but really not sure if they are all that valuable as you have gotten the warning so should deal with it accordingly if it is Ka band in my town and they do not always indicate the location due to bouncing off other buildings etc. I do like the speed camera/stop camera warnings and both are about on equal terms there. The R3 is definitely the cost effective champion but I do like the capability of over WIFI updates that is available on the 360c. If you are doing mostly highway traveling the R3 is the winner if around town most of the time get the MAX360 but not necessarily the c version if your car does not have a WIFI hot spot. I have never owned a Valentine so cannot comment on those but the folks that have them seem to like them.
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Old 05-08-2018, 12:35 AM
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owc6
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Originally Posted by 1954
I've had a V1 for over 10 years but lost faith in radar detectors about a year ago here in Arizona. On a trip from Phoenix to Laughlin I got a speeding ticket and the cop used the old fashion method, stop watch using the mile markers. He had me clocked at the exact speed I was going which was 83 in a 65. Maybe need to go back to the CB radio days- 10-4 good buddy there's a smoky up ahead!!
You bring up a good point.

A RD is only one tool to try to defeat the revenue collectors. There are many others that help, but still are only tools. The more you have on board, the less likely you are to be "caught." Waze is one, CB is one (it's still viable, BTW), situational awareness is probably the most important tool in the chest. On routes you frequent, knowing the locations where cops are likely to set up shop, and slowing before you get there. KEEP YOUR HEAD ON A SWIVEL (they may sneak up on you from behind), and looking ahead is important. Watch what the traffic is doing; are they braking as they are going around a curve? Maybe they saw a cop on the shoulder.

Are there odd markings on the shoulder? This is a clue that this place may be an area where they time you from both the air or other places. Do you see car on the hill up there, or the overpass you just passed, or the one ahead.

Common sense the the biggest, but often the first tool left behind.

Especially if you are going to be a serious serial speeder.
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Old 05-08-2018, 02:44 AM
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2016C7.paul
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Originally Posted by george vee
I use the Max360. The arrows let me know where the threat is coming from ,especially if he is coming from behind and then popo backs down when he sees me, figuring I will start to speed.
Another example I have come across is 2 speed traps within a mile of each other, popo figures you past the trap so you start to speed again , the Max 360 will show radar behind you and the the front threat gets picked up. a #2 will appear letting you know there are 2 radar guns in use 1 front and the one you past.
I mount it where it cannot be seen from behind and yes it works fine there.I use velcro and move it from car to car.
I am also interested in your mount/cord run. I was originally going with either a Max360 or R3 with blendmount until I saw your image. I really don't want the detector blocking the limited visibility that is available in the cabin.
Old 05-08-2018, 03:37 AM
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joemessman
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I have tried several brands, and currently the Uniden R3 is a little better as far as Ka range than the other good models mentioned above. None of these mentioned models and brands are any good for laser. They just let you know you are going to get pulled over for a citation. (if you were the one the LEO was aiming at).
I have a laser detection system manufactured by AntiLaser Priority. Works like a champ, but you would need the 3 head up front unit. And it is only a valid installation if it is tested against a radar gun after installation. Spendy, but if you are in an area that uses laser guns it is a good investment if you drive over speed limits.
Laser jammers and radar detectors are just toys for me, as I obey the posted speed limits. My recommendation is to go to the track if you want to speed.
If you want to save yourself some money on detection equipment and keep your insurance rates at proper levels, just obey the law. It makes for less stressful driving. I know it is difficult sometimes in these cars we have...
Old 05-08-2018, 06:57 AM
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rrsperry
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V1 guy here. But I'll second the comments about, detector, situational awareness, not being stupid, as main factors of not getting a performance award.
Old 05-08-2018, 07:26 AM
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V1. Set up the same way someone else above mentioned, except I have laser disabled too. I can't have it constantly going off because of the toll lanes in one of the local highways, which was an issue before I disabled laser.

Never seen anything other than Ka used around here, and my V1 has saved me numerous times.

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Old 05-08-2018, 07:30 AM
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Flame Red
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I used to be a V1 guy. Owned 5 of them. Now I switched to the Max 360 with blendmount and mirror tap. There is a newer version of Max360 I believe now. Much better than V1 IMHO.
Old 05-08-2018, 07:50 AM
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chefcg1
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R3
Old 05-08-2018, 08:17 AM
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LT1 Z51
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Had a V1, upgraded to a Redline, now I have an R3.

R3 is the best, hands down, just go get one.


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