Introduction: First radar detector was a Bel Vector 995, then I upgraded to an STi, then I upgraded to the V1. I've only had it for two days now, so I'll become more familiar with it.
The V1 is overwhelming at first. All the information it gives you is stellar. How many threats, where, and what bands - That's what makes it overwhelming. With the previous Bel's it gave me moderate information, and I had to decide what to do. The V1 gives you everything you need to know, then lets you make a decision. It'll take time to get used to and understand, as I have a steep learning curve to trek upon.
Is it chatty? Yes, but doesn't have to be. The reason it's chatty, as I observed, is because the wealth of info you get. Audio tones for different bands and strength alerts, as well as the bogey lock tone? C'mon - that's stuff you need to know. My Bel was a lot quieter, but audibly never told me when it picked up more alerts, if it even found them. How do I make it quieter - I have enabled the 30 second/4 light K-Band automute, and leave the muted volume set low in the little L mode. It does help.
The windshield mount felt flimsy at first, but after I actually mounted it to the windshield it was solid. I didn't like the spot I had it in because it wasn't high enough (the truck has the dots on the windshield) so now I'm using the visor clip.
I work nights, so most of my driving is at night. It's really tough to see what bands are being detected, almost impossible unless you're very familiar with the face of the V1. To fix that, I have two concealed displays on their way to REBinc to get new different color LED's.
Conclusion: The V1 is almost annoying at first, unless you program it to how you would like to be alerted. As I said I have a tough learning curve ahead of me, as I now have loads of more information to process. I'm sure I will begin to love it like all those zombies out there.
-Anthony
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