Looking to spend $200-300, what should I get?

[nemt]

I'm sure there are tons of topics like this, but hopefully you guys will indulge me anyway.

I was originally planning to get a Cobra 9960G, but after seeing everyone here trash that brand I doubt that's the way to go. Is there anything you would recommend for this price range? (in before snappy answers like "I RECOMMEND NOT SPEEDING LOL")

I drive in PA, NJ, NY and once in a blue moon I go down to VA/DC; and my vehicle is a Chevrolet Equinox.

It would also help if it's one I can pick up in a store fairly easily, as my credit is maxed at the moment keeping me from ordering anything online. This isn't a major issue though.

[AirMoore]

A V995 would fit your bill perfectly IMO. Thats what I would choose and you can get them for a little over 200 brand-new from an authorized dealer.


$200-$300 is a respectable amount of money for a first RD... we just get those people who say "I have $100 not a dollar more, I would like to spend $80 or less though if possible".

[nemt]

Thanks, I'll check it out. What makes the V995 superior to other detectors in its price range?

Also, I've asked this a few times but no one seems to know/notice: are there any dashboard friction mounts for radar detectors, or am I stuck sticking it to my windshield?

[stlcardsfan]

Consider a used V1. Pre-POP models run in that price range. Make sure its not stolen and is functional though.

[legacy]

If you can squeeze out another 60 bucks, for $360 Valentine one will give you one of it's returns.

They allow you to purchase one for $400 and try it for 30 days. The ones returned are sold for $40 less.

They're checked and resent out. Thats what I did. I could'nt find any trace of a fingerprint that it had been used or even opened before. Very happy with purchase.

So for another 60 bucks you could "settle" for what many consider the flagship of radar detectors. Not bad eh?

[nemt]

Is the Valentine visible to those Spectre units the police have?

[rsatmans]

Why not get a refurbished 8500 straight from escort on ebay for $150. If you aren't going to get a top tier ($400^) this is almost as good as it gets. It includes a 6 month warranty and I think a 2 week return policy.

[nemt]

Why not get a refurbished 8500 straight from escort on ebay for $150. If you aren't going to get a top tier ($400^) this is almost as good as it gets. It includes a 6 month warranty and I think a 2 week return policy.

That sounds like a good option. How does the 8500 compare to the Valentine 1 and the V995?

[category4]

It's not a V1 or 9500ix or STi, but it's not $400-$500 either and I think it compares favorably with the 995.

http://www.guysoflidar.com/august-20...ctor-test.html

[nemt]

I see some guys online questioning its pop radar detection, is this something to be concerned with?