OK, down to 2 - Whistler or Escort

[KahneFan]

OK, after everyone's advise, I'm down to two options:

Escort 8500 (Per <<JAZZY>> (http://www.radardetector.net/forums/573712-post4.html))
Whistler Pro-3450

It looks like the Escort may have a little (?) better protection, but the 3450 is remote mount. I've never cared too much about remote mount, until I read This Thread (http://www.radardetector.net/forums/radar-detectors-general/41849-rds-legal-states-truth.html), which I think I've experienced myself. Plus the 3450 has outside temp (just a cool added feature). I just wish I could pick these up in person somewhere, so I could test them without shipping fees.

[djrams80]

8500. What's the point of getting a remote mount RD, if it doesn't detect radar very well?

[KahneFan]

I don't know that it doesn't detect well. No one here appears to know that either. I'm basing this off it's pro-series relatives; which, appear to be semi-close still (per you tube tests). This is why I wish I could test them.

[Stealth Stalker]

You don't have to have a remote mount to keep it hidden, so that's not really a factor. Unless it has &#252;ber mad sensitivity, there is no real benefit to a remote mount.

[KahneFan]

What's the best way to "hide" a window mount while receiving peak performance?

[Stealth Stalker]

Visor mount, up high. Can't be seen from in front of the vehicle, usually. And unless an officer sticks his head into the vehicle, he's not likely to see it from your window either, unless you're in a jacked-up pick-up truck or something. Just make sure you have a remote cut-off switch so they don't see you reaching up to turn it off.

[KahneFan]

Unfortunately I am in a pick up. And my visor is pretty small; anything between it and the window would make it all jacked up, and very noticable. I just noticed that the same eBay store that has the 8500 has a remote SR7... $400... so it would REALLY need to be better than the 8500.

I've always used window mounts, so I guess I'll just keep on as I have in the past an use the 8500. I am however worried about the many comments I've seen about defects. I guess I'll just have to cross my fingers and hope for a good one.... or hope for a defect within 6 months :D

[yamaha1]

Unfortunately I am in a pick up. And my visor is pretty small; anything between it and the window would make it all jacked up, and very noticable. I just noticed that the same eBay store that has the 8500 has a remote SR7... $400... so it would REALLY need to be better than the 8500.

I've always used window mounts, so I guess I'll just keep on as I have in the past an use the 8500. I am however worried about the many comments I've seen about defects. I guess I'll just have to cross my fingers and hope for a good one.... or hope for a defect within 6 months :D

I recently had to send my 8500 in for repairs. Price wasn't too bad, only $79.95. A new coiled smart cord and windshield mount was included when Escort sent it back.

[KahneFan]

$79.95 :eek: That's half the price of the RD :eek:

I don't want to get a "good deal" and have to spend additional $$

[yamaha1]

Hmmmm, I thought it was pretty good and it was double what I paid for the RD! Plus, now it's got a 6mo warranty on it.....heck, if it lasts 2 yrs and I have to send it in again, oh well, I figure it's worth it. Its a good little unit and that's cheaper than replacing it.

[KahneFan]

You paid $40 (ish) for your RD? Then that's not bad. Your total so far is $120. For me, I would be paying the $150 + $80 = $230. Again, this is only IF it breaks... I've just seen a lot of IF stories about this particular RD.

[rocky2]

Go with the Escort.

[zerbey]

X2, Escort.

[happya$$]

X2, Escort.

it is hard to recommend anything but the elite 8500 especially at $150