Just got back from Texas. Friend of mine bought a 740i, and he bought the hype and got the V1 for his darlin'. I had my 8500 on my car. V1 looks chunky and just plain weird. After several miles, he wanted to switch. I told him he has to buy his own 8500.
Does anybody have an idea what is really happening?
Almost 100% of my Xband alerts (in all environments,rural, urban, interstate, streets, etc have been not police radar related. It is getting so that I only respond to K and Ka band alerts! Almost all of the K and Ka band alerts are police radar.
Is this your first detector? False signals, especilly in 'city' areas, been happening for decades with door openers or buguler(sp) alarm motion detectors - all on X band.
The most persistent false X band reading was in the middle of the CA desert! (I5 and the middle of the NV desert, Mojave) Area 51 to the Northeast or Southeast !! The thing went off almost non stop for app 6 min or 10 miles!
The Ka band went bonkers once but that was a Patrol car trying to net his next customer. He was shielded by an overpass where oncoming traffic probably couldnt see him until it was too late.
I've been noticing more use of radar guns by the highway department where they have construction. They apparently use the radar guns to slow down traffic. I've also seen radar guns just mounted along the road for no apparent reason. Either just to screw with radar detector owners or they are monitoring traffic speed for some nefarious purpose.
Just a heads up! Using a very unscientific polling of the last 10-25 patrol cars of various jurisdictions and 6 states (CA, NV, AZ,CO, NM,Utah) that could "pull the trigger on me" I was amazed to find that app 50% either did not have radar or did not have the radar on during patrol duties. This of course renders even the finest detectors to the status of a lump of plastic and other related materials!
Just can't live (and go back with 8500) without these features and what the Bogey Lock tone means along with the directional arrows...
V1 is designed to track multiple threats. During an alert, when V1 locks on to an additional bogey, it notifies with the Bogey Lock tone ("Dee-Deet"). This sound will never be heard at any other time, not even during the power-on ritual. Whenever this sound occurs, it means that another bogey has been detected and is being tracked. The Bogey Counter shows the number of bogeys being tracked at that time along with the directional arrows.
If I get 1 detection, I make every effort, at my best quickness, to get my speed within the legal limit.
Why would anyone care if there is one or five radar cars around?
And don't tell me that you want to immediately crank it up to +20 over just after going by 3 cars running a major trap. If you don't expect to see one or more just down the road either writting tickets or coming back after turning one loose, you haven't been seeing the traps I've seen.
Obsessed with traffic radar (not a hobby) just like Mr. Mike Valentine.
Radar is out there, skulking (stalking?) around, hiding in the bushes, and I really get a kick out of finding it with V1, finding it first, finding it everytime. I find it compelling. Of course there are other speed measurements for traffic.
There is a very valid reason to know if there are multiple radar sources. For one thing, there is a particular intersection where the stores have intrusion alarms that set off the detector. I expect to get an alarm there every time I drive by there. One time, as I glanced at the remote indicator which is right in my line of sight, I noticed there was an extra source there. Guess what? A clever local officer was using the intrusion alarms for cover and had a good number of people pulled over. It earned it's keep on that occasion.
V1 Innocent of satellite interference; FCC approval pending
Many radar detectors interfere with satellite communications in the downlink frequency range of 11.7-12.2 GHz, according to the Federal Communications Commission. But not Valentine One. By a wide margin, it has for years and years been free of any possible interference.
By October 27, 2002, all detectors offered for sale in the U.S. must comply with new RF radiation limits and be certified, either by the FCC or other designated agencies. Detectors sold after that time must have a certification sticker.
Valentine One has already passed compliance testing. FCC approval is pending.
A not-very-timely second to joe166's response: In my neck of the woods, the state troopers sometimes set up two traps, a mile or two apart, to nail people who speed up after they pass one. With the directional arrows and the bogey counter on the V1 you won't be fooled.
In the Bel 985, in a two trap scenario, again, if both locations are firing/shooting:
as the detector/car moves away from the first point source there is first a warning, graphic and audio, then a signal strength indication:(graphic and audio) [graphic and audio representation would be like (strong) 5 to 1 (weak)]
2. Upon second source firing/shooting, Again a warning, then as you approach the source the graphic/audio representation picks up strength. (faster blinking, faster audio clicking)
While the idea of a graphic representation [ARROWS (V1) and flashing 5's,(Bel 985)] is good, to me it is more intuitive AND FASTER to react to the audio clicks while keeping my eyes on the landscape, especially when I dont want to have to look at gauges. Keep in mind if you are in a pack, most everybody else (other traffic) is trying to avoid being the next customer also!!!
If it works for you that's the bottom line. I don't claim the V1 is the best; it's my first and only detector so I can't make any knowledgeable comparisons. My point is merely that the features of the V1 are not gimmicks.
I didn't think you were making that claim. What I was attempting to do, was to in effect compare your experience with V1 and my experience with Bel 985. Not everyone can or wants to try all the latest detectors and select from those he has tested.
Don't know if they have any left but Radio Shack has to get rid of all there radar detectors. I just picked up a $100.00 on for $15.00 and a $200.00 for $30.00. Don't know how good they are but for that price I could not pass it up. Talked to the store manager and he told me that if he does not get rid of them by the Oct 26 he has to throw them away because they don't comply with FCC.
Cheap is cheap, but I would not recommend bargain detectors. If you get caught speeding, not only do you get a stiff fine, your insurance will go up quite a bit. If you are getting a detector, go for the best one available or none at all.
One of the best I have read about is installing the detector in the third brake light(Valentine 1 installed in the brake light with the remote display unit in the dash). Anybody has done it here? Will it interfere with the working of the detector?
No but I have heard of the units being "hard" wired into the electrical system.
I actually think that a two or three piece system is the way that it will go. The current all in one package system is truly a marvel of miniaturization, but I think there is a market for even smaller units and or multiple pieces that further let you blend the radar unit into the interior of the vehicle.
Is the third brake light mounted high or low in the back window?
Detector performance is enhanced by a high mounting position (windshield or back window). Two reasons. For radar, a longer sight line to the horizon always helps. For laser, moving away from the hood and its sun reflections helps a lot.
Windshield heaters such as FoMoCo's (Ford Motor Co.) InstaClear block radar from passing through the glass (look for a brown tint). So do solar barrier windshields of the type used in GM's Venture-Montana-Silhouette-Trans Sport minivans and on some imported luxury sedans (look for a reddish or copper tint). Same for mirrored sun screens or tinted windows. Detector performance will greatly reduced when it is mounted behind such metallic films.
BTW, I also hard-wired my detector, very easy to do.
Does anyone have experience with the laser jammers that are out there (these are apparently legal unlike radar jammers).
I am considering adding a Lidatek (http://www.lidatek.com) laser jammer to complement my Valentine 1. Escort apparently also makes one but it requires manually "disabling" it after you get shot (basically you want to jam the first hit so you can slow down, then let the user get a speed reading on a subsequent hit so not to draw attention to yourself).
Also, if you have a laser jammer, what type of car is it installed on?
I read the license plate "screens" are a scam. The "active" ones supposedly work (radartest.com and a few other sites have reviewed them). However, I would like to find someone who actually has one to confirm :-)
I've now logged 26,000 miles over the past 12 months with the ~$340.00 Escort 8500 (with the 3 yr. extended service plan), and I've been "illuminated" (e.g., "nailed") a number of times by both laser and instant-on radars, both of which are deadly; luckily, however, I've not yet been pulled over or otherwise ticketed, even while traveling at more than 10 mph over the speed limit. At any rate, I recently decided to try the latest incarnation of the Valentine V1, because I was getting tired of often having no idea which direction the threats were coming from. I also ordered Valentine's optional "concealed display" module, and with 2nd day UPS shipping, the bill came to ~$475.00.
Thus far, here's how I would compare the Valentine V1 to the Escort 8500: 1) Despite the high cost of the V1, its overall build-quality seems rather cheap and flimsy in my opinion. For example, its control knob is not firmly anchored or "collared" onto the front of the unit, allowing it to slop-about and wiggle when it's pushed-in (mute feature) or turned, as if the control knob is loose; the V1's cigarette-lighter adapter looks and feels rather cheap and flimsy, and the curled cord is too short for my 2002 Explorer, while the straight cord is much too long. (The cig. lighter outlet in my 2002 Explorer is situated below the center armrest on the middle console, and I've had to buy a 6-foot, coiled phone cord to run my windshield mounted V1). 2) Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1's suction-cup, window-mounting assembly does not offer a quick-release mechanism which would allow the V1 to be easily removed from window, while leaving the suction-cup assembly attached to the window. I find this to be a major pain, because it requires the user to constantly be add/remove/add the suction cups assembly, which leaves circular imprints all over the windshield glass, and encourages the suction cups to become dirty, deformed, and less likely to reliably stick. In fact, my V1 has actually fallen off of my windshield twice today, and this is simply intolerable! (By comparison, my Escort 8500's suction-cup mount has NEVER let loose, but then it has a quick-release feature, so I don't have to constantly add/remove/add its suction-cups). In addition, the V1's plastic bracket for the window-mount also looks cheap and flimsy, and the detector really bounces up and down when driving over bumps, as if it is not at all well anchored to the window. 3) Unlike the Escort 8500 (which comes with a hard-shelled, form-fitted carrying case), the V1 does not come with a carrying case of any kind, and I find this to be inexcusable for a detector costing $400.00. 4) Because my truck's power outlet resides just below the center arm rest, with the Escort 8500's "Smart Cord" (which includes redundant warning lights), I can simply extend my right index finger while my arm is resting on the center arm rest, in order to effortlessly push the Smart Cord's "mute" button, and this is the main reason why I want a mute button at my right hand position while driving. Note however that with the 8500, the detector itself remains fully illuminated when using its included Smart Cord, and if you want to run in stealth mode, you simply enter the 8500's program mode and select this. With the V1's *optional* "concealed display" module, I still have a mute button where I need it, but installing this module obligately defeats the V1's visual display, and it can't be programmed to keep the V1's display lit while using the concealed display module just for the convenience of its remote Mute button. Furthermore, I find that the V1's concealed display module, when *jury-rigged* to the power adapter (which actually requires a 2nd, 3" connecting cord) to be quite bulky, cumbersome, and flimsy. 5) Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1 does not offer city vs. highway vs. auto modes, and unlike the 8500 (which has a clearly displayed set of program menus), the V1 is not easily and intuitively programmable. With the 8500, I can easily change its program modes while driving, but I would never attempt this with the V1. In fact, reprogramming the V1 requires having its owner's manual in-hand if you don't have the tricks memorized. 6) The directional indicators on the V1 are indeed very informative and ENTERTAINING, but they also have the potential to be very distracting of the driver's attention, particularly with respect to the road AHEAD. (When the V1's rearward arrow illuminates, especially during daylight hours, it can be almost irresistable to begin studying the mirrors in an effort to catch a glimpse of any real "bogies", thus possibly reassuring yourself that you made a wise purchase). Furthermore, Mike Valentine writes in the owner's manual that any K, Ka, or laser alert should be taken seriously (i.e., slow down!), so the directional features of the V1 may not always be as helpful as claimed. 7) I've found the *recommended* factory pre-sets of the V1 to be way too sensitive and prone to an almost intolerable amount of constant warnings.
In summary, I personally have come to the conclusion that for what you actually get in the total package, the V1 is (unfortunately) vastly over-priced, but that said, I would probably keep this $400.00+ detector if the manufacturer had paid far more attention to the details I've mentioned above. As it stands now, the cheap, flimsy, and poorly thought-out aspects of the V1 seriously detract from its strong points, which I might have overlooked if it cost, say, $225.00, but for my bill of $475.00, which included the optional concealed display (this should be included at no additional cost), forget about it-- I'm sending back the V1 for a full refund, and my Escort 8500 will go back on my windshield. You be the judge.
Okay, I'll bite. Whew! I guess we know where you stand.
>>Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1 does not offer city vs. highway vs. auto modes<< Sure it does. Read the manual and find out all about how to change the sensitivity and false rejection.
>>In fact, reprogramming the V1 requires having its owner's manual in-hand if you don't have the tricks memorized<<
I only programed it once and forgot about it. What are you doing constantly changing the settings?
>>The directional indicators on the V1 are indeed very informative and ENTERTAINING<<
You are easily entertained.
>>Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1's suction-cup, window-mounting assembly does not offer a quick-release mechanism which would allow the V1 to be easily removed from window, while leaving the suction-cup assembly attached to the window<<
Why can't you just slide the V1 out and slide it back in. It works for me. As for the build quality, I have always liked the feel of the magnesium case and am very impressed with the quality.
As many of us have said in past posts. The V1 is the best and I don't mine paying $100 extra for the best. The 8500 is a great detector also. To each his own.
Back around message #824, I was challenged to directly compare the V1 with the Escort 8500, and I recently did just that, for the reasons I've already stated. Mind you, I was quite excited about receiving the V1, and in fact I so hoped I'd like it better than the 8500 that I actually had a buyer lined-up for my 8500 who was willing to pay $225.00 for my 1 yr. old 8500. Does this sound like someone who already had their mind made-up before ever receiving the V1? (Furthermore, having my credit card billed, and then returning the V1 is an inconvenience I can do without, so if I already KNEW I wouldn't like the V1, I never would have wasted my time and theirs in the first place.
Look folks, this forum is meant to provide a free exchange of information, ideas, and opinions regarding these products, unencumbered by the potential conflicts of interest that enthusiast magazine reviews are often subject to. Plenty of prospective buyers come to this particular forum both asking and seeking opinions before spending their hard-earned money on a high-end detector, and I've not only gone to the expense of actually buying and using both units (I drive about 350 freeway and 2ndary road miles/week), but I also took a considerable amount of time to write about, share, and summarize *MY* impressions and opinions regarding the Valentine V1 vs. the 8500. I happen to be the type of consumer who is usually willing to pay a premium for "the best" product if I can afford it, but my willingness here comes with certain minimum expectations. In this instance, I was entirely prepared and willing to pay $475.00 for the V1 system I ordered, as well as to take a loss on the resale of my Escort 8500, if I found that the V1 product clearly stood above its nearest competitor in most areas, and clearly seemed worth the additional cost. At the price-point of the Valentine V1, I feel I have every right to expect that the mfgr. should not only offer its best "wizz-bang" circuitry, but they should also have enough business and aesthetic sensibility to pay careful attention to all other aspects of the product and its accessories, which, when thoughtfully executed and PRESENTED, often go a long way towards fostering and ensuring total pride-of-ownership, satisfaction, and loyalty among the greatest number of customers. As it now stands, I can't help but feel that the makers of the V1 seem to have rested on their laurels after they designed the circuitry, and that unfortunately, certain other DETAILS of their overall product have been given much less attention, which I find hard to swallow, given the asking price.
Sure hope not. I bought the V1 a little over a year ago and it's a gem, besides the fact of how it works. And I've been removing it by moving the lever that peels the suction cups off the glass, in all weather, without any marks or adhesion problems. Still haven't used any of the spare suction cups that came with it.
Please don't anybody tell me they've joined the manufacturing herd in heading for China.
This whole radar detector thread reminds me of some marketing insights I've gained. A manufacturer for lead glass made excellent goblets and wine glasses, comparable if not better than the expensive brands, but at half the price. It didn't sell well. The smart VP for marketing then had an idea. Same glass, just make a little design change in the handle so they can call it a "new line", but charge the same amount as the expensive brands. Wouldn't you know it, it worked. People were now happily buying the "new" and "hot" item at twice the price of the original.
V1 is a good detector. But so is the Bell and the Passport. A lot of people buy V1 because it is the "most expensive and therefore better" detector, then defend their choice with the appropriate fervor of somebody who just paid 20% tp 25% more than the next guy who bought a simillar if not better detector.
I use my money wisely. I chose what I believe to be the best, regardless of whether it is cheap or expensive. And it is NOT a V1. Flame away, V1 owners.
I'm not going to flame you. You just reminded me of another marketing genius. Some 20-30 years ago, the wine makers in California got tired of everyone saying, "they make good wine but it's not as good as French now is it?" Even though California wines won many international awards, they did not get the commercial success they felt they deserved. Some time around then a marketing genius decided to double the prices of the wine and voila, the wine sold much better. Interesting economics!
Anyway your point is well taken. I have always said the passport and the V1 are both great detectors. I just wish non-bias tests could be repeatable so there was no longer an argument about which one gives the greatest warning time. That's what I believe make the best detector.
Thanks but Craig Petterson is hardly an unbiased reviewer. I think he puts way too much emphasis on ergonomics. His review has been debated a great deal on-line. I put very little weight behind what he says. After reading the review, one who is familiar with the V1 can only conclude that he is either stupid or biased. I don't care which, but I put more weight on the tests performed by Car and Driver.
I wonder if anyone knows what causes the K band alarm when going from N 405 to E 520 in Bellevue, WA. It is very strong and always present. There are no cops around and I wonder if it is some kind of survey device.
Could it be a mini weather station or traffic monitoring device that uses radar? I've seen a few of the monitoring devices in the Balt./Wash. metro areas that seem to give off some sort of radar signal. Just a thought.
For the past 18 months, I have been using a BEl Cordless detector. I like the way it performs but I'm always open to new tecnology. Does anyone know if there has been an objective comparison of the new Escort cordless detector and the Bel cordless? Thanks for the info.
i read the debate about the v1 vs. the passport. from my experience i have seen many advertisements for both. in both ads they either have the v1 ranked as #1 and the passport ranked #3 or vice versa. but almost all the time the bel 980 was ranked #2. that's what i bought. i've had it for about 2 years or so now and it has saved me more times than i would like to admit on the net. the only downside to that detector is that it does not have a cordless option and a completely black screen for covert use. but it's dark enough. i've used this thing to drive all over the country and have never had any problems. i will say the false alerts can be high at some time in some places. but better safe than sorry. does anyone know if there are any upgrades for the detector since it is reprogramable? i've never used the v1 or the passport. but i have nothing but high marks for the bel980, both in capabilties and ergonomics.
Two years ago, I compared the V1, Passport 8500 and got the BEL 985. I personally do not think you can go wrong with any of the top three radar detectors. The deciding factor for me was the bang for the buck , a savings of 181/80 respectively. On my wife's diesel, the savings translates to 4,788 / 2,116 miles of fuel! 
I am currently not aware of any upgrades to the Bel 980 (985 is just the subsequent model) from their web site.
I agree with the "bang for the buck" argument. One advantage of the 8500 is that you can buy them new on Ebay at a discount. If you're patient, you can find one for sub-$220.00. There's only one place to buy the $399.00 V1 and they don't ever discount it. You can usually find the BEL 985 new for a few bucks less than the Passport 8500. The same company owns both Escort and BEL (and has the Fuzzbuster trademark) so it's unlikely that the two units are all that different. You're paying for the DSP filtering algorithm to cut down on false alarms and I'd be shocked if the two units didn't use the same code.
After my wife cleaned the inside of our winshield with an all purpose cleaner instead of a glass cleaner, the suction cups for my Escort 8500 lost their grip. Can I reorder more from Escort or are they available anywhere else? I might guess they might be not be cheap from Escort. Would cleaning the old cups help or work?
Well, I'm certainly not going to regard very highly the opinion of someone who is incapable of sliding the V1 out of its window mount.
I must admit that I had to go out of my way to keep the mount attached to the window, especially in winter -- I used Automotive Goop. But it's up high where it should be, so no one can see it.
Thanks for taking the time out to share your opinion about your experience with the V1 and the Escort. You obviously took a lot of time and effort putting it together, and I'm embarassed that all you've received in return is a set of flames from some die-hard fans who disagree with you.
I negotiate mergers & acquisitions for a living, so recognizing common cognitive dissonance mistakes is sort of a familiar friend to me. When I studied decision analysis and behavioral framing for my MBA, there were all sorts of great examples of unconscious bias that causes people to misframe rational decision-making processes. Anyway, I digress...
I've spent the last day working my way through the reviews on the major radar websites trying to decide (1) if I should even bother getting one and (2) which one I should get. My last radar detector wasn't remotely state-of-the-art even five years ago, when I bought it. I think it was a Bel, but it's long since been in the hands of my little brother, who "inherited" it from me when he bought his first car (which is far too slow to need one anyway).
I have to admit I never really felt like I *need* a radar detector. I haven't had a speeding ticket in over ten years despite the fact that I drive pretty fast in some cars made to encourage that sort of behavior. So do I really need one?
Still, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to have one, especially because I'm concluding a two-year "hiatus" imposed by an automatic tranny 330i (which has ample power, but never really begs a driver to open it up). The replacement, an 6-speed E46 M3, categorically does exhort a driver to do so.
Having read up a little, my feeling is that a cheap radar detector would be worse than useless, so that puts me in the position of choosing between a Bel (I'm considering the 940 and 960), the Passport 8500 and the Valentine.
The Bel 940/960s seem to have very respectable performance characteristics with a considerable discount from the 985/V1/P8500, plus I can get one from Circuit City just as soon as I decide to pull the trigger. Still, the Speedzones over-the-hill test has me a little worried... the Bels look like solid comps except in that test, which seems to have some real-world validity (I mean, that seems like the logical place for a cop to set up, right?). So I don't know...
The Escort 8500 gets consistently high marks from everyone, and the radarzones reviews makes it clear they like its Ka better than the V1's. Hmmm, maybe this is the way to go...
The V1 gets great user reviews on this board, but seems to have a bit of a fan-boyish element that makes me nervous. Don't get me wrong, popularity beats unsatisfied customers any day, but there's just something intangibly arrogant about the ferocity of the knee-jerk responses that gives me pause.
So I'm leaning towards picking up the Passport 8500, but I'm interested to see if anyone has experience with the Bel 940/960/985s they'd care to share. Once again, thanks to everyone for their opinions, especially to Heintz1. Before anyone bothers to flame me, (1) I don't care, so don't waste your time, and (2) for the more reasonable people who simply disagree with my interpretation of the situation, just look at it this way, Heinz took the time to put up a reasoned, articulate opinion supported by his experience. You may agree or disagree, but he did us all a service either way.
Comments
Almost 100% of my Xband alerts (in all environments,rural, urban, interstate, streets, etc have been not police radar related. It is getting so that I only respond to K and Ka band alerts! Almost all of the K and Ka band alerts are police radar.
Is this your first detector? False signals, especilly in 'city' areas, been happening for decades with door openers or buguler(sp) alarm motion detectors - all on X band.
The most persistent false X band reading was in the middle of the CA desert! (I5 and the middle of the NV desert, Mojave) Area 51 to the Northeast or Southeast
The Ka band went bonkers once but that was a Patrol car trying to net his next customer.
lots of goodies and $165 less then the valentine
Anyone planing on buying a Valent. should think twice
V1 is designed to track multiple threats. During an alert, when V1 locks on to an additional bogey, it notifies with the Bogey Lock tone ("Dee-Deet"). This sound will never be heard at any other time, not even during the power-on ritual. Whenever this sound occurs, it means that another bogey has been detected and is being tracked. The Bogey Counter shows the number of bogeys being tracked at that time along with the directional arrows.
If I get 1 detection, I make every effort, at my best quickness, to get my speed within the legal limit.
Why would anyone care if there is one or five radar cars around?
And don't tell me that you want to immediately crank it up to +20 over just after going by 3 cars running a major trap. If you don't expect to see one or more just down the road either writting tickets or coming back after turning one loose, you haven't been seeing the traps I've seen.
Radar is out there, skulking (stalking?) around, hiding in the bushes, and I really get a kick out of finding it with V1, finding it first, finding it everytime. I find it compelling. Of course there are other speed measurements for traffic.
Many radar detectors interfere with satellite communications in the downlink frequency range of 11.7-12.2 GHz, according to the Federal Communications Commission. But not Valentine One. By a wide margin, it has for years and years been free of any possible interference.
By October 27, 2002, all detectors offered for sale in the U.S. must comply with new RF radiation limits and be certified, either by the FCC or other designated agencies. Detectors sold after that time must have a certification sticker.
Valentine One has already passed compliance testing. FCC approval is pending.
SOURCE: V1.com
In the Bel 985, in a two trap scenario, again, if both locations are firing/shooting:
as the detector/car moves away from the first point source there is first a warning, graphic and audio, then a signal strength indication:(graphic and audio) [graphic and audio representation would be like (strong) 5 to 1 (weak)]
2. Upon second source firing/shooting, Again a warning, then as you approach the source the graphic/audio representation picks up strength. (faster blinking, faster audio clicking)
While the idea of a graphic representation [ARROWS (V1) and flashing 5's,(Bel 985)] is good, to me it is more intuitive AND FASTER to react to the audio clicks while keeping my eyes on the landscape, especially when I dont want to have to look at gauges. Keep in mind if you are in a pack, most everybody else (other traffic) is trying to avoid being the next customer also!!!
I didn't think you were making that claim. What I was attempting to do, was to in effect compare your experience with V1 and my experience with Bel 985. Not everyone can or wants to try all the latest detectors and select from those he has tested.
No but I have heard of the units being "hard" wired into the electrical system.
I actually think that a two or three piece system is the way that it will go. The current all in one package system is truly a marvel of miniaturization, but I think there is a market for even smaller units and or multiple pieces that further let you blend the radar unit into the interior of the vehicle.
Detector performance is enhanced by a high mounting position (windshield or back window). Two reasons. For radar, a longer sight line to the horizon always helps. For laser, moving away from the hood and its sun reflections helps a lot.
Windshield heaters such as FoMoCo's (Ford Motor Co.) InstaClear block radar from passing through the glass (look for a brown tint). So do solar barrier windshields of the type used in GM's Venture-Montana-Silhouette-Trans Sport minivans and on some imported luxury sedans (look for a reddish or copper tint). Same for mirrored sun screens or tinted windows. Detector performance will greatly reduced when it is mounted behind such metallic films.
BTW, I also hard-wired my detector, very easy to do.
I am considering adding a Lidatek (http://www.lidatek.com) laser jammer to complement my Valentine 1. Escort apparently also makes one but it requires manually "disabling" it after you get shot (basically you want to jam the first hit so you can slow down, then let the user get a speed reading on a subsequent hit so not to draw attention to yourself).
Also, if you have a laser jammer, what type of car is it installed on?
Thanks.
Thus far, here's how I would compare the Valentine V1 to the Escort 8500: 1) Despite the high cost of the V1, its overall build-quality seems rather cheap and flimsy in my opinion. For example, its control knob is not firmly anchored or "collared" onto the front of the unit, allowing it to slop-about and wiggle when it's pushed-in (mute feature) or turned, as if the control knob is loose; the V1's cigarette-lighter adapter looks and feels rather cheap and flimsy, and the curled cord is too short for my 2002 Explorer, while the straight cord is much too long. (The cig. lighter outlet in my 2002 Explorer is situated below the center armrest on the middle console, and I've had to buy a 6-foot, coiled phone cord to run my windshield mounted V1). 2) Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1's suction-cup, window-mounting assembly does not offer a quick-release mechanism which would allow the V1 to be easily removed from window, while leaving the suction-cup assembly attached to the window. I find this to be a major pain, because it requires the user to constantly be add/remove/add the suction cups assembly, which leaves circular imprints all over the windshield glass, and encourages the suction cups to become dirty, deformed, and less likely to reliably stick. In fact, my V1 has actually fallen off of my windshield twice today, and this is simply intolerable! (By comparison, my Escort 8500's suction-cup mount has NEVER let loose, but then it has a quick-release feature, so I don't have to constantly add/remove/add its suction-cups). In addition, the V1's plastic bracket for the window-mount also looks cheap and flimsy, and the detector really bounces up and down when driving over bumps, as if it is not at all well anchored to the window. 3) Unlike the Escort 8500 (which comes with a hard-shelled, form-fitted carrying case), the V1 does not come with a carrying case of any kind, and I find this to be inexcusable for a detector costing $400.00. 4) Because my truck's power outlet resides just below the center arm rest, with the Escort 8500's "Smart Cord" (which includes redundant warning lights), I can simply extend my right index finger while my arm is resting on the center arm rest, in order to effortlessly push the Smart Cord's "mute" button, and this is the main reason why I want a mute button at my right hand position while driving. Note however that with the 8500, the detector itself remains fully illuminated when using its included Smart Cord, and if you want to run in stealth mode, you simply enter the 8500's program mode and select this. With the V1's *optional* "concealed display" module, I still have a mute button where I need it, but installing this module obligately defeats the V1's visual display, and it can't be programmed to keep the V1's display lit while using the concealed display module just for the convenience of its remote Mute button. Furthermore, I find that the V1's concealed display module, when *jury-rigged* to the power adapter (which actually requires a 2nd, 3" connecting cord) to be quite bulky, cumbersome, and flimsy. 5) Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1 does not offer city vs. highway vs. auto modes, and unlike the 8500 (which has a clearly displayed set of program menus), the V1 is not easily and intuitively programmable. With the 8500, I can easily change its program modes while driving, but I would never attempt this with the V1. In fact, reprogramming the V1 requires having its owner's manual in-hand if you don't have the tricks memorized. 6) The directional indicators on the V1 are indeed very informative and ENTERTAINING, but they also have the potential to be very distracting of the driver's attention, particularly with respect to the road AHEAD. (When the V1's rearward arrow illuminates, especially during daylight hours, it can be almost irresistable to begin studying the mirrors in an effort to catch a glimpse of any real "bogies", thus possibly reassuring yourself that you made a wise purchase). Furthermore, Mike Valentine writes in the owner's manual that any K, Ka, or laser alert should be taken seriously (i.e., slow down!), so the directional features of the V1 may not always be as helpful as claimed. 7) I've found the *recommended* factory pre-sets of the V1 to be way too sensitive and prone to an almost intolerable amount of constant warnings.
In summary, I personally have come to the conclusion that for what you actually get in the total package, the V1 is (unfortunately) vastly over-priced, but that said, I would probably keep this $400.00+ detector if the manufacturer had paid far more attention to the details I've mentioned above. As it stands now, the cheap, flimsy, and poorly thought-out aspects of the V1 seriously detract from its strong points, which I might have overlooked if it cost, say, $225.00, but for my bill of $475.00, which included the optional concealed display (this should be included at no additional cost), forget about it-- I'm sending back the V1 for a full refund, and my Escort 8500 will go back on my windshield. You be the judge.
Years ago had an acquaintence who's favorite expression was: "Even if it was good, I wouldn't like it."
>>Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1 does not offer city vs. highway vs. auto modes<< Sure it does. Read the manual and find out all about how to change the sensitivity and false rejection.
>>In fact, reprogramming the V1 requires having its owner's manual in-hand if you don't have the tricks memorized<<
I only programed it once and forgot about it. What are you doing constantly changing the settings?
>>The directional indicators on the V1 are indeed very informative and ENTERTAINING<<
You are easily entertained.
>>Unlike the Escort 8500, the V1's suction-cup, window-mounting assembly does not offer a quick-release mechanism which would allow the V1 to be easily removed from window, while leaving the suction-cup assembly attached to the window<<
Why can't you just slide the V1 out and slide it back in. It works for me. As for the build quality, I have always liked the feel of the magnesium case and am very impressed with the quality.
As many of us have said in past posts. The V1 is the best and I don't mine paying $100 extra for the best. The 8500 is a great detector also. To each his own.
Look folks, this forum is meant to provide a free exchange of information, ideas, and opinions regarding these products, unencumbered by the potential conflicts of interest that enthusiast magazine reviews are often subject to. Plenty of prospective buyers come to this particular forum both asking and seeking opinions before spending their hard-earned money on a high-end detector, and I've not only gone to the expense of actually buying and using both units (I drive about 350 freeway and 2ndary road miles/week), but I also took a considerable amount of time to write about, share, and summarize *MY* impressions and opinions regarding the Valentine V1 vs. the 8500. I happen to be the type of consumer who is usually willing to pay a premium for "the best" product if I can afford it, but my willingness here comes with certain minimum expectations. In this instance, I was entirely prepared and willing to pay $475.00 for the V1 system I ordered, as well as to take a loss on the resale of my Escort 8500, if I found that the V1 product clearly stood above its nearest competitor in most areas, and clearly seemed worth the additional cost. At the price-point of the Valentine V1, I feel I have every right to expect that the mfgr. should not only offer its best "wizz-bang" circuitry, but they should also have enough business and aesthetic sensibility to pay careful attention to all other aspects of the product and its accessories, which, when thoughtfully executed and PRESENTED, often go a long way towards fostering and ensuring total pride-of-ownership, satisfaction, and loyalty among the greatest number of customers. As it now stands, I can't help but feel that the makers of the V1 seem to have rested on their laurels after they designed the circuitry, and that unfortunately, certain other DETAILS of their overall product have been given much less attention, which I find hard to swallow, given the asking price.
Please don't anybody tell me they've joined the manufacturing herd in heading for China.
V1 is a good detector. But so is the Bell and the Passport. A lot of people buy V1 because it is the "most expensive and therefore better" detector, then defend their choice with the appropriate fervor of somebody who just paid 20% tp 25% more than the next guy who bought a simillar if not better detector.
I use my money wisely. I chose what I believe to be the best, regardless of whether it is cheap or expensive. And it is NOT a V1. Flame away, V1 owners.
Anyway your point is well taken. I have always said the passport and the V1 are both great detectors. I just wish non-bias tests could be repeatable so there was no longer an argument about which one gives the greatest warning time. That's what I believe make the best detector.
Steve, Host
Michael
I am currently not aware of any upgrades to the Bel 980 (985 is just the subsequent model) from their web site.
After my wife cleaned the inside of our winshield with an all purpose cleaner instead of a glass cleaner, the suction cups for my Escort 8500 lost their grip. Can I reorder more from Escort or are they available anywhere else? I might guess they might be not be cheap from Escort. Would cleaning the old cups help or work?
Karl
I must admit that I had to go out of my way to keep the mount attached to the window, especially in winter -- I used Automotive Goop. But it's up high where it should be, so no one can see it.
I negotiate mergers & acquisitions for a living, so recognizing common cognitive dissonance mistakes is sort of a familiar friend to me. When I studied decision analysis and behavioral framing for my MBA, there were all sorts of great examples of unconscious bias that causes people to misframe rational decision-making processes. Anyway, I digress...
I've spent the last day working my way through the reviews on the major radar websites trying to decide (1) if I should even bother getting one and (2) which one I should get. My last radar detector wasn't remotely state-of-the-art even five years ago, when I bought it. I think it was a Bel, but it's long since been in the hands of my little brother, who "inherited" it from me when he bought his first car (which is far too slow to need one anyway).
I have to admit I never really felt like I *need* a radar detector. I haven't had a speeding ticket in over ten years despite the fact that I drive pretty fast in some cars made to encourage that sort of behavior. So do I really need one?
Still, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to have one, especially because I'm concluding a two-year "hiatus" imposed by an automatic tranny 330i (which has ample power, but never really begs a driver to open it up). The replacement, an 6-speed E46 M3, categorically does exhort a driver to do so.
Having read up a little, my feeling is that a cheap radar detector would be worse than useless, so that puts me in the position of choosing between a Bel (I'm considering the 940 and 960), the Passport 8500 and the Valentine.
The Bel 940/960s seem to have very respectable performance characteristics with a considerable discount from the 985/V1/P8500, plus I can get one from Circuit City just as soon as I decide to pull the trigger. Still, the Speedzones over-the-hill test has me a little worried... the Bels look like solid comps except in that test, which seems to have some real-world validity (I mean, that seems like the logical place for a cop to set up, right?). So I don't know...
The Escort 8500 gets consistently high marks from everyone, and the radarzones reviews makes it clear they like its Ka better than the V1's. Hmmm, maybe this is the way to go...
The V1 gets great user reviews on this board, but seems to have a bit of a fan-boyish element that makes me nervous. Don't get me wrong, popularity beats unsatisfied customers any day, but there's just something intangibly arrogant about the ferocity of the knee-jerk responses that gives me pause.
So I'm leaning towards picking up the Passport 8500, but I'm interested to see if anyone has experience with the Bel 940/960/985s they'd care to share. Once again, thanks to everyone for their opinions, especially to Heintz1. Before anyone bothers to flame me, (1) I don't care, so don't waste your time, and (2) for the more reasonable people who simply disagree with my interpretation of the situation, just look at it this way, Heinz took the time to put up a reasoned, articulate opinion supported by his experience. You may agree or disagree, but he did us all a service either way.