My thoughts on the detector:

1) Get one. $400 is cheaper than a single speeding ticket, so even if it saves you one or two it's paid for itself. I've had my V1 for 4 years and have gotten 2 speeding tickets (and stopped a few times and let off); but it's probably saved me 4 or 5 tickets. Pretty good investment.
2) Get a good one. V1 or Passport 9500 - nothing else. No cheapies.
3) It won't save you from every ticket, just some. A V1 will save you about 99% from lazy cops, 50% from instant-on cops, 20% from laser cops, and 0% from assholes who want to pull you over no matter what just because you're young and in a sports car.
4) If you didn't get it from #3, don't be lulled into believing the detector is going to save you if drive like a jackass all the time.
5) #4 is especially true if you drive like a jackass and don't pay attention to overpasses, on ramps, bridges, stands of trees, and the cars around you.

 

Very well stated. I'm working on my third detector now, and the V1 is by far the best. I've had two Bel's that I was "happy" with, but I realized just how much they really sucked once I got the V1. Range is incredible. But it also depends on how you speed and if you pay attention to your surroundings while you speed. You really need to be aware all the time what kinds of areas are around you while you're speeding. And the concealed display is a great plus. Everyone loves to huddle around a speeder with a detector visibly glaring on your dash at night. With the concealed display you can just slow down with everyone else flying past you. V1 is Just don't be stupid when you speed. If you speed all the time you're still going to get tickets. V1 just helps to minimize those. If you speed alone on a dark highway, you're asking to be shot by laser. Then youre toast... Make sure there are "target" cars ahead of you, at least you have a fighting chance. my 2 cents.