Need a radar detector
02-04-2006, 08:47 PM
#1
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 259
Need a radar detector
Hey guys help me out. I want to get a radar detector. I don’t know much about what to look for in these things. Prices wary greatly, so I need your opinion on what to get. Also, is this a one-time-buy thing or they need to be replaced because police come up with radars? Thanks and don’t hesitate to let me know if I this is a waste of money.
02-04-2006, 09:21 PM
#5
Jammers aren't legal in a bunch of states. Check before you invest in one.
Don't get a cheap radar detector; they tend to give off more false alarms and don't work all that well. Spend the money and get a passport 8500 x50 or valentine 1. They perform a lot better and you can send them in once every couple years to update the software.
Don't get a cheap radar detector; they tend to give off more false alarms and don't work all that well. Spend the money and get a passport 8500 x50 or valentine 1. They perform a lot better and you can send them in once every couple years to update the software.
02-04-2006, 09:27 PM
#6
Mass_Media™
Join Date: Dec 2003
Posts: 2,812
Originally Posted by frankd121
Jammers aren't legal in a bunch of states. Check before you invest in one.
Don't get a cheap radar detector; they tend to give off more false alarms and don't work all that well. Spend the money and get a passport 8500 x50 or valentine 1. They perform a lot better and you can send them in once every couple years to update the software.
Don't get a cheap radar detector; they tend to give off more false alarms and don't work all that well. Spend the money and get a passport 8500 x50 or valentine 1. They perform a lot better and you can send them in once every couple years to update the software.
If you don't want tickets at all get a jammer then you have someway of slowing down. If you dont want to go down the illegal road then get a passport or valentine. I have the passport 8500 x50 blue and i love it
02-04-2006, 10:12 PM
#7
Honestly, i got a whistler for 59.99 from radio shack just to try it out and it works pretty decently. Its got 1 light for K band a diff light for X band, goes off at a lot of traffic lights but its only 1 light- every cop here uses Ka band which is both lights. (i'm in NY too, so every State Trooper, County Sherrif and town police use Ka band) so its easy to see when their coming. works from pretty far off too- im not knocking any of the other brands, im sure Passport 8500 and the Valentine 1 work awesome, i like how the V1 has the arrows so you know where its coming from- if i had the money id love to have it but under a hundred bucks gets you a decent product too. I thought the exact same thing, "60 dollars, is it gonna work?" but it reads from almost a mile away in clear road, before htey can get you. plus 360 deg. laser and VG-2 detector. I wouldnt get a no-name but whistler, cobra, beltronics all have good detectors.
02-04-2006, 11:45 PM
#8
Totally look into the high end Beltronics radar detectors (specifically the RX65). This company is now owned by Escort (maker of arguably the best detectors in the world).They are priced cheaper than the Escorts, but are basically the same thing.
The RX65 is able to keep up with the changing police bands because you can download and upload updates to it through your PC. It also detects the new POP radar which is becoming more popular with the fuzz. It detects the new Ku band too which is used by cops in Europe and is just starting to be used here in the States.
It's basically the best out there, along with the Escort 8500 X50, and some would argue, the Valentine 1.
The prices on these things can be a bit expensive, $200-300 on ebay or other places online. But if you think about it, a ticket or two will cost you this much or more. I would invest some money in one that'll serve you well in avoiding expensive tickets.
Info on these radar detectors is everywhere online. Maybe check out
http://www.bestradardetectors.net/Ra...sons_a/110.htm
and
http://www.comparos.com/comparos_r/c...ries_radar.htm
and
http://couponing.about.com/od/automo...radardetec.htm
Good Luck!
The RX65 is able to keep up with the changing police bands because you can download and upload updates to it through your PC. It also detects the new POP radar which is becoming more popular with the fuzz. It detects the new Ku band too which is used by cops in Europe and is just starting to be used here in the States.
It's basically the best out there, along with the Escort 8500 X50, and some would argue, the Valentine 1.
The prices on these things can be a bit expensive, $200-300 on ebay or other places online. But if you think about it, a ticket or two will cost you this much or more. I would invest some money in one that'll serve you well in avoiding expensive tickets.
Info on these radar detectors is everywhere online. Maybe check out
http://www.bestradardetectors.net/Ra...sons_a/110.htm
and
http://www.comparos.com/comparos_r/c...ries_radar.htm
and
http://couponing.about.com/od/automo...radardetec.htm
Good Luck!
02-05-2006, 06:23 AM
#12
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2005
Posts: 100
*** VALENTINE 1 ***
I bought it a few months ago and couldn't be happier. You get radar detection all around (not just forward), PLUS it tells you from which direction the signal is coming, AND how many sources there are.
For example, you're driving up to a speed trap and the v1 goes off. You slow down and plan to speed up once you are clear of the trap, but the v1 beeps again and tells you there's another source up ahead - a cop sitting around the corner waiting for people who sped up after the speed trap.
It's saved my butt a couple of times and made me feel safe the other times it was quiet.
My suggestion to you is to go to www.radardetector.net and read up on some of the detectors there. If you do go with the v1 (or any other reprogrammable detector), figure out what settings are best for your area. Here in Miami, the police do not use X-Band, so I just have it turned off completely to avoid a lot of false alerts. Also, a Ka signal is almost *always* a radar gun, so I have the sensitivity on that turned up so I get alerted as fast as possible.
So yeah, v1 ftw.
However... huge price tag at $400
I bought it a few months ago and couldn't be happier. You get radar detection all around (not just forward), PLUS it tells you from which direction the signal is coming, AND how many sources there are.
For example, you're driving up to a speed trap and the v1 goes off. You slow down and plan to speed up once you are clear of the trap, but the v1 beeps again and tells you there's another source up ahead - a cop sitting around the corner waiting for people who sped up after the speed trap.
It's saved my butt a couple of times and made me feel safe the other times it was quiet.
My suggestion to you is to go to www.radardetector.net and read up on some of the detectors there. If you do go with the v1 (or any other reprogrammable detector), figure out what settings are best for your area. Here in Miami, the police do not use X-Band, so I just have it turned off completely to avoid a lot of false alerts. Also, a Ka signal is almost *always* a radar gun, so I have the sensitivity on that turned up so I get alerted as fast as possible.
So yeah, v1 ftw.
However... huge price tag at $400
02-05-2006, 10:42 AM
#14
I used to always have the latest and greatest radar detectors. The last one died about 4 years ago. When I was using the detectors, I actually got more tickets than without because I had a false sense of security and didn't keep my eyes peeled as much as I should have. In the last four years, I've gotten two tickets and I drive 50,000 miles per year for my job. before that I used to get one about every 4-6 months.
02-05-2006, 11:56 AM
#15
Originally Posted by GBAUER
I used to always have the latest and greatest radar detectors. The last one died about 4 years ago. When I was using the detectors, I actually got more tickets than without because I had a false sense of security and didn't keep my eyes peeled as much as I should have. In the last four years, I've gotten two tickets and I drive 50,000 miles per year for my job. before that I used to get one about every 4-6 months.
Only when I've had a radar I've gotten a speeding ticket. Ever since I've gotten rid of mine I am much more attentive and no longer have a false sense of security. But if you really need to get a radar, go with the Passport 8500 x50, V1 or the RX65 like most others have said.
02-05-2006, 12:55 PM
#16
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 259
Thanks for the replies everyone! Have a few questions. How do I find out what bands do cops use in my area and what do different bands mean? How does the whole thing with reprogrammable detectors work? I just send it in and they upgrade it for me or I have to pay something? Also, is there any other differences between x50 Red and x50 Blue but the color?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not getting this so I can drive careless like a maniac. I just don’t want cops busting my A ss for going 20mph over the limit on an empty road.
Originally Posted by GBAUER
I used to always have the latest and greatest radar detectors. The last one died about 4 years ago. When I was using the detectors, I actually got more tickets than without because I had a false sense of security and didn't keep my eyes peeled as much as I should have. In the last four years, I've gotten two tickets and I drive 50,000 miles per year for my job. before that I used to get one about every 4-6 months.
02-05-2006, 01:19 PM
#17
Valentine 1 generally has slightly better range than the other top detectors, but a ton more false alerts.
Escort's Passport 8500 X50 and Beltronics Pro's RX65 will give you range that is almost as good (if not totally equal) with fewer false alerts, and for a lot less money. They are identical except that the RX65 has voice alerts, is more easily upgradeable, and detects Ku-band radar without an upgrade (no one's using Ku yet but they say they will within a year or so).
Radar jammers are ILLEGAL in ALL states because they emit what the FCC considers to be "malicious interference" to radio signals. Laser jammers, however, are legal in most states; check your local laws.
Escort's Passport 8500 X50 and Beltronics Pro's RX65 will give you range that is almost as good (if not totally equal) with fewer false alerts, and for a lot less money. They are identical except that the RX65 has voice alerts, is more easily upgradeable, and detects Ku-band radar without an upgrade (no one's using Ku yet but they say they will within a year or so).
Radar jammers are ILLEGAL in ALL states because they emit what the FCC considers to be "malicious interference" to radio signals. Laser jammers, however, are legal in most states; check your local laws.
02-05-2006, 01:25 PM
#18
Originally Posted by i30ish
How do I find out what bands do cops use in my area and what do different bands mean?
Originally Posted by i30ish
How does the whole thing with reprogrammable detectors work? I just send it in and they upgrade it for me or I have to pay something?
Originally Posted by i30ish
Also, is there any other differences between x50 Red and x50 Blue but the color?
02-06-2006, 07:18 PM
#20
02-09-2006, 09:20 AM
#22
Originally Posted by Mungo
Has anyone hard wired their detector in? Maybe spliced into the moonroof or overhead lights? I want to put my detector up there, out of sight from cops and thieves and have no visible wire.
Fat
02-09-2006, 09:24 AM
#23
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2002
Posts: 2,836
Originally Posted by Mungo
Has anyone hard wired their detector in? Maybe spliced into the moonroof or overhead lights? I want to put my detector up there, out of sight from cops and thieves and have no visible wire.
I hardwired mine a few years ago.
02-09-2006, 10:20 PM
#26
I have the Beltronics RX65 and Its a great detector. I hardwired mine as well. My display sits in the bottom of my guage cluster. The speaker is behind it. I mounted the buttons on the open space to the right of my steering column. I put the front sensor in the rear view mirror and the rear sensor in the 3rd brake light. It took me taking the detector apart, but I like the fully integrated setup that I have now.
02-10-2006, 12:11 AM
#27
ive read that the x50 out performed the V1 in filtering false alerts and range. the V1, i hear is awesome because of the arrows. but is it worth that extra $100? i am extremely happy with my x50 but i dont rely on it that much at all. like some people have stated before, your eyes are your detectors. drive smart, be aware of your surroundings, and look for speed traps. dont rely on the detector so much like some people do. thats the mistake they make.
just dont buy those cheapy ones. you get what you pay for. its a piece of crap. save that money and buy either the passport x50 or valentine 1. its the best money can buy. jammers and shifters work as well but the cost is pretty high. read up in which states its illegal in, which will most likely be all. just dont get caught with one so hide it well. good luck!
just dont buy those cheapy ones. you get what you pay for. its a piece of crap. save that money and buy either the passport x50 or valentine 1. its the best money can buy. jammers and shifters work as well but the cost is pretty high. read up in which states its illegal in, which will most likely be all. just dont get caught with one so hide it well. good luck!
02-11-2006, 04:47 AM
#28
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: a charming town in Connecticut first settled in the 1600s
Posts: 4,956
Originally Posted by NightRider
I have the Beltronics RX65 and Its a great detector. I hardwired mine as well. My display sits in the bottom of my guage cluster. The speaker is behind it. I mounted the buttons on the open space to the right of my steering column. I put the front sensor in the rear view mirror and the rear sensor in the 3rd brake light. It took me taking the detector apart, but I like the fully integrated setup that I have now.
02-12-2006, 10:14 AM
#33
Originally Posted by CoolMax
Is everyone a
?
02-12-2006, 05:35 PM
#34
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
Posts: 43
I wish I found a Radar Detector Thread earlier....I bought the Rocky Mountain Radar. It has a jammer and it talks and has 3 functions highway, city 1 and city 2 (I don't really know the difference in City 1 and City 2 maybe someone can help me with that). It has X, K, Ka Band and I think another one lol I forget. But I guess its pretty good and they pay your ticket if you get caught in a reasonable speed (they give you a list of examples) of course they don't pay for court fees and higher insurace. Got it for like $170.
02-12-2006, 06:54 PM
#35
Member
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 45
[QUOTE=happyricefob]drive speed limit then u won't need a radar detector. your eyes are the best radar detector.
I agree with happyricefob. A radar detector isn't going to keep you from getting a speeding ticket. You're going to have to keep yourself from getting a ticket.
If you still want and end up getting a detector then don't B**** and M*** when you get pulled over for speeding.
I don't believe in radar detectors. I already know when I'm driving too fast.
I agree with happyricefob. A radar detector isn't going to keep you from getting a speeding ticket. You're going to have to keep yourself from getting a ticket.
If you still want and end up getting a detector then don't B**** and M*** when you get pulled over for speeding.
I don't believe in radar detectors. I already know when I'm driving too fast.
02-13-2006, 05:26 AM
#36
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2000
Posts: 1,308
[QUOTE=90EightSE]
the thing is, you guys don't get "speed traps" in cali like we do over here on the east coast. they hide and wait for you and in the cover of darkness too. you're pretty much toast. especially when you're the only car out there or traffic is dispersed. sure, a crowded 405 or 5 everyone is doing about 80-90mph on average driving is different over here in my opinion.
Originally Posted by happyricefob
drive speed limit then u won't need a radar detector. your eyes are the best radar detector.
I agree with happyricefob. A radar detector isn't going to keep you from getting a speeding ticket. You're going to have to keep yourself from getting a ticket.
If you still want and end up getting a detector then don't B**** and M*** when you get pulled over for speeding.
I don't believe in radar detectors. I already know when I'm driving too fast.
I agree with happyricefob. A radar detector isn't going to keep you from getting a speeding ticket. You're going to have to keep yourself from getting a ticket.
If you still want and end up getting a detector then don't B**** and M*** when you get pulled over for speeding.
I don't believe in radar detectors. I already know when I'm driving too fast.
03-14-2006, 02:02 PM
#38
Originally Posted by amimaxima
passport solo s2 end of story
no bogey counter
no direction arrows
no POP technology
Get the V1..you'll toss your Passport in the trash.
...end of story? LOL
03-14-2006, 06:14 PM
#39
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2003
Posts: 996
Originally Posted by DaBlackMaxx
I wish I found a Radar Detector Thread earlier....I bought the Rocky Mountain Radar. It has a jammer and it talks and has 3 functions highway, city 1 and city 2 (I don't really know the difference in City 1 and City 2 maybe someone can help me with that). It has X, K, Ka Band and I think another one lol I forget. But I guess its pretty good and they pay your ticket if you get caught in a reasonable speed (they give you a list of examples) of course they don't pay for court fees and higher insurace. Got it for like $170.
I did a lot of research when I bought my last detector. I came up with 3 units that were worth the money. V1 / 8500 X50 / RX65 pro. I bought the X50 and have been very happy with the unit. The V1 was my second choice due to the size of the unit (only thing I did not like about it) The RX was just coming out and had very good reviews, but limited track record at the time.
Keep in mind a detector can't protect you if you don't protect yourself. When the police have their units running I get enough notice that I wonder when I'm going to see them. The police know we have detectors and use " instant on" to suprise detectors. Laser detection is more of notice that your getting a ticket than protection.