Let's talk radar detectors.
 

Hi guys, I'm in search for a radar detector, which one is your personal favorite? Read a lot of things online, but I really need real positive feedbacks. I know others are torn aswell with all the products that are available.


Btw, I'm torn between the Valentine and the passport,

Thanks guys!

-ciri-

I have the 9500ci and it has paid for itself several time over. In my wife's BRZ I installed the smartradar which seems to work great for her. Got it cheap, so no remorse there..

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I got a 9500ix, I was torn between that and the V1, I ended up with the Passport because I got it used with an unregistered serial number, so it was quite a deal. If I had to just choose between someone giving me one or the other, I would've chosen the 9500ix, mainly because of the newer features it offers. The arrows on the V1 are nice, but if you get a KA alert it generally doesn't matter cause you'll watch your speed regardless and likely see the bogey as the signal gets stronger. The real key with the 9500ix is the GPS, being able to lockout false alarms from Walgreens and the like is so nice on everyday drives in a town/city, really keeps you from hating your alerts and ignoring them, and helps you focus on actual threats. Redlight/speedcamera location alerts are great in unfamiliar territory, and it can show your speed more accurately. The display options are nice if you wanna go expert mode, and the fact that it reads out "K" or "KA" is helpful to keep your eyes on the road. And, vs the V1, it's much easier to tell what band you're getting hit with at night, as the V1 just lights up a signal red light next to a painted on label for each band, so it's tough to see in the dark; the 9500ix displays and reads it to you, and of course you'll learn how each alert sounds.

I guess, like what a lot of people say, if you live in a town or city and drive there regularly get a Passport, if you live out in the boondocks and drive from middle of nowhere A to middle of nowhere B, get the V1. But, just my 2 cents.

Edit:
Another good thing about the Passport is it only beeps once (or twice if you turn off x-band) when starting the car, this is nice if you have someone else with you and you don't want it to sound like you have R2-D2 on your dash. Oh, and don't worry about sensitivity/range, both of these high end detecters should be more than sensitive enough for you, I was on the blue ridge parkway with mine and it picked up a deputy with KA around the mountain before I entered the curve. And it's picked up bogeys a mile away on a regular highway.

http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=25140

My install

http://i.imgur.com/iyHTROG.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/bICGXWm.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/uqXm6FB.jpg

pretty sure if you choose one of the top brands/models you should be fine.

I personally have a 8500 x50 black edition, I got it for cheap, and I have an old 8500 back in the day that did me well.

My boyfriend and I both have the 9500ix. It's super reliable and like Deatholo said you don't get spam on your commute from random drugstores because it remembers static signals.

Escort Redline was on sale for ~$419 on Amazon today. Passed because I didn't feel that was a great deal and no GPS is a deal breaker when there's only more and more fixed placement speed cameras, red light cameras, turn cameras, and mobile camera vans.

Also, RDD invisibility is a good feature to look for when radar detector shopping, but unnecessary if you don't go anywhere near localities that forbid radar detectors.

Passport Max is the way to go..! The only reason to go with the redline is for the distance, but the Max uses better technology which defeats the purpose


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Sooo that mirror...where'ja get it? That is dang nifty. I am also in love with your controller location. A+

http://www.radar-mirror.com/

The controller location is the one thing i would change if i had it to do all over again, especially since i've added the JDM/EDM armrest cover, not convenient enough to access. i'd like to try and squeeze it behind the seat heater controls...hmmm i might have to find my digital calipers to see if it will fit.

Edit: just measured, 16.75mm. It looks like it would fit, but if i flush mounted it to keep it clean, i would have to relocate the power button (since it would then be under the plastic with the flush mount)

i've seen a how-to for relocating the power button somewhere, not sure i want to go through the trouble though.

I can see how that would be an issue with the JDM armrest. also if you move it there the cop that could pull you over would be able to see it.

I am thinking about hiding it where the tilt adjustment is on the steering wheel.

Both the Valentine and mid- to high-end Escorts are excellent. Can't go wrong with either.

I have been using the x50 for about 3 years and it's always been spot on. I am thinking about upgrading to the 9500ci, though, for it's stealthiness and laser shifters. Too many police lasers around where I work now.

It's legal in NY, so it's not a problem if they see it. I've got a radar detector since I had my first car and never did an officer comment on the detector in the middle of my windshield in plain sight.

Haha my friends got tickets for having something "hanging on the front window" which is why I am thinking about the 9500ci

Holy, guacamole at the price. I wonder if there's a DIY for embedding the display into the mirror.

Unless it was placed in location that obstructed your view (or in California where you can only have GPS-style mounts on your windshield), I don't see how that ticket can hold its grounds. The officer must be a **** or your friend must've pissed him off.

xjohnx: It isnt complete price gouging if you get the radar detector system + mirror. comes to ~2k for both. You can etch the mirror with the display mounted behind it...but then you get visible lines in the mirror...their selling point is that it is just like the compass built into our mirrors you dont have any etching. but price point makes a difference.

Back on point, OP @Filipino Royale
From my research the 9500ci/beltronics sti are both great units if you are going installed.

9500ci:
http://radartest.com/article_2.asp?articleid=100584
beltronics STiR+
https://radartest.com/BEL-STi-R-Plus-review.asp

laser jamers: (if you want to see how good the 9500 laser interceptors compare to dedicated units)
http://www.guysoflidar.com/july-2008...mmer-test.html

for completeness all of the window mounted units here:
http://www.guysoflidar.com/radar-det...ctor-test.html (there are 2 sections view both)

TM Yea...I am sure sure they'll pissed him off. They are the 'tuners' the cops hate, I am trying to be more tasteful with my modifications(OEM+ style). Which is why I want installed...trying to be incognito.

Oh, didn't realized the cost includes the entire radar system. That makes more sense now.

The article dates back to 2008. The 9500ci comes with the new laser shifter pros starting in 2014 instead of the worthless zr4 laser shifters that it used to come with.



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I'm guessing RVA is Richmond VA? Would explain your need to hide your detector, and have a RDD. Worst state for fast cars, I'm right below you in NC and I hate going up there, only because of the cops.

To everyone else, the only place a detector is illegal in the USA is VA and DC (fuck those places right? ;D ), everywhere else, put em up in plane sight, doesn't matter. I know some states like CA have laws against putting them on your windshield, but that's what blendmounts are for (plus, if you have a homelink mirror, you can tap into the power and it's super seamless). Radar/laser jammers are a different story of course.

Thanks for the info guys. I'll just try the V1 first. Then will just get the passport max thru bestbuy, since they offer financing. :thumbup:

@xjohnx
Oh man! By looking at your build it makes me lean toward to that radar detector.

True, but the way i would flush mount it, it would look VERY close to OEM.

That is a GREAT idea. i need to look into that! thanks for the advice!

there may be a DIY, but it was worth it for me to but the whole package from them for simplicity sake and I knew the warranty would be valid since they're an authorized bel/escort dealer. Hell, the thing goes off 2-3 times and it will have paid for itself in tickets + the subsequent insurance increases.

Yep, worst law ever. Then again, i LOVE this unit. it's rare that i don't get at least 1/2 mile notice, usually more.

Yea if you buy the "mirror system" you get both. if you order the Bel STiR system you get the radar detector strengths of the STiR/9500ci but you can use different laser jammers based off of how good a system you want. That way you arent 'buying' laser jammers in duplicate. but that is up to you.

I am glad they are putting different shifters with the 2014 models...because according to the 08 article...the stock ones on the 9500ci are shit.

+1 for the 8500 X50. For the money it is pretty tough to beat and it has saved my ass several times. I had the old 8500 for years and it was also excellent. That said, I may upgrade to the 9500ix for the GPS features, more of a want then a need admitidly :). My buddy has the MAX and the feature set is pretty cool, but I hate the color display and the size of the housing. The nice thing about upgrading from an 8500 X50 to a 9500ix is that the power cable and mount are identical to each other so I can re use my blend mount and hard wired Smartcord.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.n...65066033_n.jpg
https://scontent-a-sjc.xx.fbcdn.net/...34771723_o.jpg

I'm a huge fan of the V1, but you really can't go wrong with any of the other high-end detectors (8500, 9500, sti-r, Max, Redline).

I personally prefer the V1 for a few reasons:

• Arrows are extremely useful - not only for locating the threat, but also for identifying falses. I used an 8500 x50 for years before upgrading to the V1, and I honestly don't know how I made it without the arrows. I definitely could not go back.

• The Bogey Counter displays up to 9 individual signals. Combine that with the arrows, and it makes it quite easy to quickly determine if a "beep" constitutes a legitimate threat.

• No planned obsolescence. If a newer version of the V1 gets released tomorrow, I can send mine in to get upgraded for much less than a new detector would cost. That way I can stay on the cutting edge without breaking the bank.

• It doesn't compromise sensitivity for comfort. It may be a bit more talkative than the Escort models (okay, it is), but I never have to worry that it might be ignoring a weak (but actual) threat. I'd much rather know too much than not enough. That said, the Valentine is still pretty easy to quiet down with a couple of different accessories:

- Savvy connects to your OBD port and is then able to mute the Valentine1 below a certain speed threshold. This makes it silent even in parking lots. As an added bonus, Savvy powers the V1, so you don't have to worry with a hardwire kit!
- V1Connection is a Bluetooth dongle that allows you to control the V1 from your Android smartphone (or iPhone, but you'll need a different V1C version). This lets you program "custom sweeps" to further improve the V1's sensitivity to the threats specific to your area, and also opens the door to more advanced functions with the enthusiast-built YaV1 app - which adds things like Savvy emulation, remote display options, muting options, and GPS+frequency-based lockouts. The latest beta version of YaV1 even has an intelligent learning algorithm to automatically lock out the false alerts you drive past on a daily basis!

The V1 is a very, very good detector - and adding in those custom sweeps and YaV1-powered functionality turns it into a superhero.

Important to note that this statement doesn't apply to the V1's ability to remain hidden from Radar Detector Detectors (i.e., spectre). The V1 is detectable by spectre elite units, so for anyone driving through VA/DC, i'd recommend not using the V1.

I was faced with a similar conundrum. I went with a V1 based on my experience borrowing a friend's on a road trip from Dallas to California many years prior. It saved me from 3 tickets then & countless others ever since I purchased one.

Very true, and definitely something to consider if you frequent those areas. I neglected to mention it here as the OP is apparently in New York.

My V1. Works great and has never failed me. I ended up getting one after watching a friends in action. The ability to update when newer versions get released is also nice. The direction arrows come in handy. I also looked at 9500 and redline but I picked up this v1 on ebay for 175.00 so I really couldn't pass it up.

I prefer the custom look of a built in or hidden radar detector.


No wires to see & no detector in sight for thieves & don't have to hide it when parked


I went with whistler pro 3600 order from Walmart $220
Detects everything all bands & laser...


Receiver mounts behind grille and readout fits by driver window vent it is tiny and mini speaker behind drivers left ear so you can hear when it alerts with stereo on.


Led mounts thru the top of instrument console cover , very straight forward install. Put a 12v accessory plug on the power cord and plug in behind the glove box.. Yes there is a extra 12 cigarette lighter behind glove box when you pop it out


Can post pics if you like.


BTW you can add gps module and rear modules & laser modules if you want to add those features later SO it really has it all for a couple hundred bucks

That actually sounds like a pretty good setup for the price, and for someone who doesn't need all the enthusiast features of the Redline or Valentine. It's definitely a lot cheaper than any of Belscort's remotes.

http://veilguy.blogspot.com/2011/03/...tlers-new.html



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My V1 has paid for it's self at least 100 times over in the 2 years I've had it. The arrows are nice since you can see where the signal is coming from. Ultimately you can't go wrong with either the V1 or 9500 just your preference at that point.

Not a bad little review. I wonder if it is invisible to Spectre. If so, i'll have to keep that in mind for when I buy my beater.

I doubt that it is; that tends to be a rather pricey feature - and I'm sure they'd boast about "RDD/Spectre Invisibility" or similar on the product page: http://www.whistlergroup.com/radar-d...ct.aspx?id=280

I had my 8500 X50 red edition since christmas last year...it treat me well and does all the jobs. my brother has 9500ix on his M3, I bearly see no big difference beside the GPS feature.

8500 X50 and 9500ix both have the same distance from radar receiving. but my 8500 x50 only cost $200 when I bought it..so cheap and it works.

About the best review of V1 I've read anywhere.

I've run with most of the detectors mentioned in this thread and when I had it to do over again (V1 stolen while stored in glove box) stayed with V1.

There's something to be said in favor of their patented situational awareness display and durable magnesium chassis. The best detectors are similar in laboratory measured detection ability, but only one has the features most helpful in real world driving conditions...V1.

I am sold on the V1. Thanks for the info fellas.

I believe the 9500 only difference from the 8500 x50 is the gps feature but the redline has a longer range. They eventually combined the two to make the escort MAX which is the radar detector I upgraded to from the x50. In my opinion it's the best detector I have ever used period.

Thanks!

Of course, the patent that covers the arrows has recently expired - but don't fret! Mike Valentine has also somewhat-recently filed an application for a patent on an updated display, as well as an improved microwave filter. The buzz around the countermeasures boards is that we may see a significant platform update in the next 6-18 months. I'm pretty excited about what the future may hold!

Glad to help!

I think the 9500ix has the same range as the 8500 x50 BLACK, but its Ka range is supposedly greatly improved over that of the x50 SILVER. The Redline does have a range improved even over that, but its big strength is its reactivity as well as its Ka band segmentation (similar to the V1's Custom Sweeps) (and which also increases the Ka band reactivity and perceived range). That said, the Redline is very much an enthusiast setup, and the other Escort offerings are likely perfectly good for the majority of users.

The MAX brought some really cool things to the table - particularly the digital signal processing (DSP) which makes it significantly more effective at filtering out false alerts. If you want a reliable detector that's not going to pester you to death with false beeps, the MAX is a fantastic option. Glad you're enjoying yours!

Oh, wasn't aware of the new patent application. That is exciting!

Care to share your favorite countermeasure board(s)? I've been so content with my V1 that maybe it's complacency.

Time to get back up to speed on the latest and greatest (V2?).

As many will say, to each their own. V1 I've heard many good things about them, especially when they say what direction the threat is coming from. I currently run the Escort 9500ix in my daily driver and the Escort 9500ci (intigrated with laser shifters) in my FRS. I love them both. But if you are in the market and looking for the top end radar detector available you might want to check out some reviews on Escorts new Passport Max with OLED display. It has the newest technology for radar and laser detection.

If you are looking for an installed one (like the Escort 9500ci) the Beltronics STiR Plus is pretty nice too. It is pretty much the same thing as the 9500ci but with a red display. The only difference is that the shifters are not included (RX45 Shifter Pack) but can be added for around $250. https://www.beltronics.com/store/stir-plus.html

I haven't heard much on the Laser Interceptor products but some of the stats looked kind of nice. http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=688361 & http://www.laserinterceptorusa.com/

Some of the best sourced sites I can recommend are listed below:
1.) http://www.speedzones.com/opening_page_12.html
They do all the testing (speed measurements lab) on law enforement radar and laser equipment.

2.) http://www.1stradardetectors.com/bes...or/index.php#h
Here are some rest results for radar detectors and laser shifters from 1st Radar Detectors

It would be something to see Escort combine V1's expired patent arrows into Passport Max. That might get me to jump ship.

The primary one I hang out on is www.rdforum.org. Lots of really hardcore geeks who do very intensive real-world testing, often with results that contradict the folks who actually get paid to do the testing. Take from that what you will ;)

(FWIW, in a lot of their tests the Max lagged behind both the Redline and V1 (when running Band Segmentation / Custom Sweeps particularly) in reactivity and range, but it did of course blow the non-DSP units away with selectivity (filtering false alerts).