Ok..... I've read a bunch of threads, and I've read a lot of different opinions. All I want is the best value for the money, and a radar detector that will prevent me from getting tickets. I don't need fancy schmancy vector radar detection (unless, of course, it prevents me from getting a ticket).

So.... which is it? Does all the Valentine technology really help in detecting radar? Or will the Passport work just as well?

Thanks for the input

 

The great tech-nerds evaluated both and both were highly recommended. While debatable (just wait), I think either will do you well.

I wanted a local supplier so that I could return it if it died (most modern electronics have a 3-5% infant mortality). I found a local Escort (Passport 8500) dealer who would match mail-order pricing. I paid taxes but avoided shipping and handling.

Already paid for itself.

Regards,

Al

 

The advantage of the V1 are features like:

-> Very solid construction, built to last
-> Radar directional indicators
-> Remote audio adaptable (great for motorcycles)
-> Always upgradable
-> Easily mutable without looking for a small button


The disadvantages are:
-> Higher cost
-> Slightly larger size

Both the 8500 and the V1 will let you know when there is radar around, whether from police guns or shopping malls... Range has never been an issue for me.

 

Seriously, all the V-1 owners are a bunch of loons!! You don't want to be associated with them. 8500 owners are cool.

Unfortunately, they are so comparable, this is the best argument I can make...

Mark

 

Also the 8500 is more attractive , smells better, and repels mosquitos.

 

I saw an 8500 at best buy today and I was shocked at the size. Is the detector you guys are talking about the one that's about the size of a polish sausage (with bun)? Where would you put such a monster?

 

Actually its about the size of my wallet, and I haven't been doing very well lately

 

Well, since I'm not driving a motorcycle, and size and looks are important (not to mention price), I think I'm gonna go with the 8500. Besides which, it has other unique characteristics that I think make it the cooler radar detector:

• Passport just sounds COOLER than Valentine... PASSPORTS are used for travel - a sophisticated thing, whereas VALENTINES are a school-girl thing
  
• 8500 is a cool number... i've calculated that if you're in 6th gear in your S2K at 8500 RPM, you'd be going about 155 MPH..... that's FAST !!!
  
• The company name is ESCORT.... 'nuff said
  
• If you have a REALLY big mouth, and you're in Canada, and a cop pulls you over, you MIGHT be able to fit it inside..... assuming you know sign language
  
• It doesn't have goofy arrow pointers that look like some kind of high-tech kid's toy from the 1980s
  
• The owner of the company doesn't have his goofy ass picture on his website
  
• The owner of the company doesn't have his goofy ass picture in car mags
  
• I don't know.... if you guys think of more, just add them on !!!

 

I've recently bought both, and ended up w/ the 8500, not b/c it "won", but for other factors (long story).

Both work great, and I doubt you could go wrong either way. I'm missing the arrows, but otherwise 100% satisfied w/ my switch (I've used a V1 for several years).

I need to add, though, that the current V1 form factor is smaller in every dimension but width.