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What radar detectors do you guys use?

Old 02-20-14, 12:23 PM
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mecheng10
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Default What radar detectors do you guys use?

While I am in the process of my build, I began to think how am I going to stay out of trouble with the 5-0?
If you know ohio you know it is flat and straight. its really hard not to go fast. (that's why my daily isn't a fast car!)

so what are your experiences with radar detectors?
What one do you guys recommend?
Old 02-20-14, 12:25 PM
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jwin
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I have a k40 calibre radar but i think it is kinda outdated now and I will probably get a passport concealed one next.
Old 02-20-14, 12:58 PM
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Mine came with a K40 built in. Installed by the Lexus dealership when new. I also have a Beltronics V8 sitting in the trunk for faster driving because it has more modern Laser technology.
Old 02-20-14, 03:29 PM
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Dream36
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Those gps memory system ones sound real promising. I used to have a v2 but in this car I have a $25 unit I picked up on a road trip years ago. It works fine enough, all kinds if hot spots around here so having the volume down is important. Mine is hidden behind the mirror
Old 02-20-14, 08:20 PM
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I currently use an Escort 9500ix. I actually bought it for my LS but use it in the SC fron time to time.

The GPS helps so much. I'll probably buy another to use in my SC.
Old 02-20-14, 08:56 PM
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Originally Posted by jwin
I have a k40 calibre radar but i think it is kinda outdated now and I will probably get a passport concealed one next.
I've been looking into them but never got one because they all stick to the windshield or something, I dont like that. What do you mean by 'concealed'?
Old 02-21-14, 08:32 AM
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Kira, I had the 9500ix for a minute. I had to downgrade to the 8500 because my detector kept powering off. We thought it might be an alternator or fuse issue. How'd you get yours to not randomly shut off? Mine was going throughout the cig lighter, for clarification.

ScEnf, Escort and Valentine make small add on units that you can hide in the instrument cluster or under the mirror. They're totally plug and pray, so all is good.

I modified my 8500 with a clip from one of those sunglasses visor holders. It was a two part thing... I hated the hot GA sun kept heating the suction cup and I'd find my detector on the seat or the floor (not to mention I hated the wire dropping down and being visible). Also, since I have it clipped to the passenger sun visor and the SC sits so low, cops never see it unless they're looking directly at it.

I can post pics if you'd like. But reserve judgement, because the girl is dirty right now. Too much ice and gravel here in the DSM as of late.

EDIT: I forgot to add, if you're going to invest in a high end one, make sure it's an upgradable one. Valentine, Beltronics and Escort make theirs so you can either flash them yourself or send them back to the manufacturer. Also, Escort has an Android and Apple app that you can download and it will show you speed cameras and allow you more... POWER!!

Last edited by brerrabbit; 02-21-14 at 08:34 AM. Reason: ...
Old 02-21-14, 08:41 AM
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I'm interested in seeing pics of these concealed ones..
Old 02-21-14, 09:11 AM
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I'll post some this weekend.
Old 02-21-14, 11:31 AM
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Kira X
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Originally Posted by brerrabbit
Kira, I had the 9500ix for a minute. I had to downgrade to the 8500 because my detector kept powering off. We thought it might be an alternator or fuse issue. How'd you get yours to not randomly shut off? Mine was going throughout the cig lighter, for clarification

EDIT: I forgot to add, if you're going to invest in a high end one, make sure it's an upgradable one. Valentine, Beltronics and Escort make theirs so you can either flash them yourself or send them back to the manufacturer. Also, Escort has an Android and Apple app that you can download and it will show you speed cameras and allow you more... POWER!!
I keep it hardwired in my LS but I plug it into the lighter in the SC. It's never lost power in the SC. I hadan 8500i I ran in the SC for almost a year with no problem abouttwo years ago. I would check the fuses but I prefer to hardwire it. It's mounted next to my rear view mirror in the LS so it can't be seen. I haven't figured out where to mount one in the SC other than the dash.

I like the idea of the hidden radars like the ones that used to come installed on SC's. I may go that route someday.
Old 02-21-14, 12:51 PM
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mecheng10
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didn't know that radar detectors could be upgraded. interesting

the modern day radar detectors, the ones you guys have mentioned, they also detect laser as well?
how well have they worked for you?
Old 02-21-14, 02:18 PM
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Laser warning is nice but it's instant pop deal. If the detector catches te signal you are caught. I use mine fot situational awareness more than evading and the like.
Old 02-21-14, 02:29 PM
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Mech, the higher end ones detect everything but the kitchen sink it seems. And I like the idea of being able to access the Escort ones with my Android phone. It's an 80 dollar part, I think.

Kira, let me know what you think of my setup when I post this weekend. I'd genuinely like to hear your thoughts as someone who's got the exact model I want to upgrade to.
Old 02-21-14, 02:37 PM
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my suggestion is either Valentine or Escort 9500ix

two best rated right now!
Old 02-21-14, 03:44 PM
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Valentine I heard is the bomb, but very expensive. I have used Beltronics for years and it offers everything I need and then some. The one I have now is the 955STI Plus front and rear detection. I have a used one if someone needs one for cheap side. PM me.

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