Radar Detector Opinions

[Mtnman]

I need a radar detector. I would like to know some of your opinions on them. I do NOT want to spend $400+ on one (so basically, no Valentine 1)
I do not mind if it is used, and most likely it will be.
I prefer to discreet mount, or at least wireless or hardwire capability.
I am in North Carolina (they are legal, and normally police dont even have laser technology in car)

What do most of you use, and what would you reccomend?

[Marcus-SanDiego]

You should be able to find a nice, used V1 for about $300.

V1 is all I've ever known. I have not had a speeding ticket since I started using the V1 (ten years ago). Mine are hardwired.

[az3579]

Honestly, it doesn't matter what you use because you can't defend against laser unless you get a jammer. Heck, I've heard reports of even some jammers getting punctured by the laser.
More and more states are using laser if I'm not mistaken. That means the hundreds you spent on a detector goes out the window the second you get hit with instant-on.

Why don't you just... I dunno, slow down perhaps?

[Alphatek45]

Passport 8500 X50

Very happy with it. Direct wired. Can buy em all day @ $150.00 on ebay. (used good shape)


http://s1177.photobucket.com/albums/...t=00846bfb.mp4

I don't really have one so I can speed. I have one so I don't have to stare at my speedometer trying to avoid a $600.00 "super speeder" ticket when passing someone or whatever. Helps for long highway runs as well...its easy to let the car get away from you.

I have been looking into V1 for the ZHP so I can use this one in a different vehicle.

[nk_zhp]

+1 on AZ's post. Passive radar scanning is getting less and less popular by day so might want to invest into a laser jammer.

[MasterC17]

A radar detector, in my opinion is an absolute must if you drive "spirited". It would probably be unnecessary for your mom or wife's X5. You can buy refurbished Valentine 1's directly from Valentine for $350 if you ask - be warned they may say they don't have any even if they do. I have an integrated Beltronics RX-75 Pro and love it. It does both Radar and Laser (w/ Jammer). It's saved me a couple times so far. If you do get hit with Instant-On you're screwed, but many of your "town cops" don't have or won't use instant-on. Personally, I wouldn't drive my car around without a radar detector, it's an extra peace of mind that I enjoy. For me I really like the full integration my Radar Detector offers, but it's also more expensive than a V1. For the money, the V1 is definitely the best radar detector you can get and can also be hardwired. Let us know what you go with

[Marcus-SanDiego]

In California, 95% of the hits I get are from CHP using radar -- not laser. As a result, the V1 is a must here. In areas where there can be laser -- or should be laser -- I simply do not speed.

[Jon D]

In California, 95% of the hits I get are from CHP using radar -- not laser. As a result, the V1 is a must here. In areas where there can be laser -- or should be laser -- I simply do not speed.

Pretty much my experience as well in FL. V1 for me as well.

[mimalmo]

Does CA still have that law that prohibits speed traps?

[Marcus-SanDiego]

Yes. But there are lots of exceptions.

http://law.onecle.com/california/vehicle/40803.html