Okay - I _know_ that I can search through past threads in order to do some research on radar detectors. But - what's the sense of that when I can just ask?! Besides, if gives us all a reason to procrastinate even more. So - I am now in the market for a new radar detector.

I had a V1 - it was stolen a while back. I love the idea of having directional indicator and "threat" counter. However, the design is getting a bit dated and I'm afraid ther are better systems out there that cost considerably less:
http://www.radartest.com/DS4HEM.html

I am _really_ close to getting the Passport 8500. Anyone have it? Like/hate it? Good places to mount it?

Thanks!

 

I'm happy with my 8500, sensitivity and performance seem good to sources in all directions. Mounted centered under the rear view mirror - no problems with visual obstruction. Accessory phone-type wire without remote display purchased from Passport routed up underneath the plastic trim down the left side to the under dash fuse box. Use a 1/4 inch spade connector to one of the open plugs in the box that is powered when the ignition is turned on. Ground wired to the ground bolt nearby the box.

 

Try http://www.speedzones.com/ . Radartest.com is a very biased site which will always rate the Passport above Valentine 1.

The general consensus is that if you have the extra $100+ for the V1, get it. If you want to save some money and get something that works just as well, get the Passport 8500. The main thing the V1 has over the 8500 are the directional indicators and the rear antenna to detect radar coming from the back of your car. The 8500 has this as well but it's not as good.

Head to head, they are both nearly identical in performance in most categories with exception of the rear radar advantage in the V1 which I don't get hit with very often. Which is why I opted for the 8500. It's compact and relatively incognito, with a lower sticker price, I was sold.

 

Yeah - I think the directional finding bit is a bit overdone. If the tones go off, I'm hitting the brakes regardless of the direction. Didn't realize that one site was so biased, thanks for the heads up. Don't think I get an additional $100 in value from the V1 - makes me wonder why they haven't significantly updated the unit in years! Isn't that strange?

Did you guys get any of the different cords for the 8500? The standard one with the indicator light is kinds useless for our setup because of our plug in position. Any other creative wiring options?

I see that $299 is the generally quoted price - any place better?

 

I got mine on eBay brand new for $239. And I had the standard cord but I hard wired mine in to the ignition so it only turns on when the motor is running.

 

We recently went through the buying process for a radar detector. After looking at the reviews and considering the costs, we went with the Bel 980. It generally was rated very close to the V1 and 8500, but was available for much less. We paid about $225 (with shipping) for it through a place we found using pricescan. The only complaint about it is that it falses a little more than we would like.

 

If laser is used where you live and you want a remote mount, have a look at the Passport SRX. I don't have one yet but a few others have had some positive things to say. It's a remotely mounted radar detector just like the SR-1 but it will also jam laser. The only bad thing is the cost...so far the best price I've heard of is $750 and then you'd have to do the install. If I have the cash left over when my S2000 arrives, I'm going to get one.

David

 

One thing that was important to me was the remote display mount of the V1. I like having the unit mounted high on the winshield, but keep the display down low to keep the setup "incognito".

- Relson

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RealDeal
[B]If laser is used where you live and you want a remote mount, have a look at the Passport SRX.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Hiroprotaganist
[B]
I am _really_ close to getting the Passport 8500.