New guy saying "Hi"...

[Shortstuff]

I've been lurking for a couple of weeks and decided to join so thought I'd jump right in and say "Hello".

I've been "away" from using RD's for some time, but still have my Whistler-2 (WH-2) and 225. I just purchased a new xtr-330 and I already know what 90% of you are going to say, I wasted my money - and why not something better?

I've always like gadgets and gizmos that keep me informed of the world around me. I was heavily into CB's in the early to mid-70's (KDL-7345) when a CB license actually cost $4.00 and currently keep my GMRS license up-to-date. Scanners - from way back, I've always had at least one scanning the police/fire frequencies on a daily basis - wherever we lived at the time - and I still have a bunch of crystals around somewhere.

With over 36 years of driving experience, I've never had so much as a parking ticket. And yes, in my younger days the CB kept me clean during many of my "over-the-speed-limit" weekend hops between Camp Lejeune NC and my wife of 32 years here in MA, and the older RD's although more of a novelty, were like cheap locks - They keep honest people honest.

So, one would ask why, if I'm not a habitual speeder, why would I want an RD? Well, I'm sure there are many out there just like me who likes to be more aware, and not so much for the novelty, but for the practicality. The RD's today, even the inexpensive ones like my 330, are so much better than they used to be. Sure, when on the highway, I'll squeeze up maybe 5 over as many do, but there are times when if you don't "go with the flow" they'll literally run over you. It's times like those that I'd just like a little heads up and know if there may be a speed trap, and it just might be my time.

I'm guilty! I am one of those who stops completely at all red lights and stop signs, I always signal my intent, I have ALWAYS worn a seat belt (even my 64 Chevy Impala had them) and only exceed the PSL on the highway. But then there are those times when it seems like you are the only one on the road, it's 2:00 a.m. and before you realize it you are going 10 mph over - so the RD is there - just in case. And the idea of SWS, even though it's not widely available, seems like a pretty good idea, providing advisories and warnings.

Anyway, I thank all of those who are so very helpful. After so much reading I've learned that there is so much more than I ever imagined to learn about todays RD's!

Steve

[cooljay]

Welcome to the forum, glad to have ya on board! It doesn't matter so much how much you spend on an RD (hey at least ya got a Whistler that works and not a Cobra ) as long as it fits YOUR needs, that's what it is all about. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask us and we'd be glad to help ya!

[IXLR8]

Welcome Steve,
Lots of good info, and interesting discussions here, as I'm sure you've already discovered.

As to the why for having an RD for a non speeder, I would say that it is as you mentioned 'to keep an honest man honest'. Many times when I have un-intentionally been exceeding PSL, my RD has reminded me to my check speed.

Then as you say, there may be times that seem to warrant a little excess.

[Sarge]

I have a XTR690/Pro68/Pro78 and a XTR 330. The 330 is an excellent RD....I use it in the Mercedes for a monthly San Antonio-Dallas run we do...I love it....I'm also like you....I am a "mature" individual and not a speeder at all...well sometimes But I use the XTR 330 to keep me honest and aware....and it has a great detection range out on the open highway to do just that.....

[malcolmman89]

Welcome, Steve!
Like you, I use my RD for "situational awareness". I don't intentionally speed, but sometimes I can drift above the PSL and the RD reminds me to keep it under control.
I've heard of cops around here giving tickets for even 2-5 MPH over the limit, so its always good to know where the traps are.

[Ck15]

the xtr330 is a great unit, my xtr140 works much better than i could have ever imagined a $45 detector ever would. mine keeps me honest when im not paying attention on speed changes, for some reason when i have a radar detector mounted up im always looking visually for officers or any road signs. kind of a double positive effect and increases your situational awareness

[Whistler1]

Welcome to the forum, I hope you get all the information you need to keep you informed on radar and detector issues. Just a heads up this forum can infect you like a virus, it will give a you I-want-a-better-detectoritis.



Whistler1

[RoadCourseRacer]

Welcome Steve!!!

As you've noted, this forum is an almost endless supply of quality information on Radar/Laser detectors and accessories!
When I was younger I used to spend more time above the PSL! I now try to keep my speed reasonable. I get my speed fix on the weekends. I trailer my '94 Mustang to road courses around the southeast 6-10 times per year. The track driving/racing has made me much more relaxed on the streets!!!

I am also a gadget guy(that is why I own several detectors and plan on buying more!) and can appreciate you owning a detector even at times you may not be speeding! Situational awareness is a sign of an attentive driver! Our country could use more attentive drivers.

I do not have any experience with your model Whistler but I can attest to the quality of my Pro-78!! Whistler offers more features and performance than the price tag suggests!!! I've used detectors since the first day I received my license to drive and think that detectors have helped me become a very aware driver.
Whistler has the best warranty and Michael B, on this forum, always responds to whistler owners with any issues!!! and seems to always quickly fix any problems!
Wish more companies had that kind of service!

Enjoy your Whistler and please share any save stories or post any question you may have!! There is always someone on this site that will be able to help!