first detector

[gsxrtach]

I am looking to get my first radar detector and have browsed a lot of articles here. Just wanted to say hi and chat a bit as I make my final selection. Current thought is the Beltronics Vector V995 Radar Detector they have it on Amazon for $180 and it is currently out of stock on Radar Detectors, Laser Jammers & Radar Detecting Accessories at RadarBusters.com

[auskip07]

How much do you have to spend and how much do you speed over the limit?

[gsxrtach]

I generally drive at the top end of traffic (left lane speed) but not much more on the highway. But 30 mph city streets that can be 3 lanes wide one way tend to cause me problems if cops pull you over for doing 5 over and write you (and 3 other cars) a ticket for 12 over. I have gotten 2 tickets in the last 9 years but since I moved to the city speed traps have become much more prevalent - this time defensive driving was an easier out than contesting.

The question to me is not how much I have to spend but how much is it worth. I think any mid range detector would work for my needs. $200 or less seems a reasonable price point for this.

[auskip07]

I generally drive at the top end of traffic (left lane speed) but not much more on the highway. But 30 mph city streets that can be 3 lanes wide one way tend to cause me problems if cops pull you over for doing 5 over and write you (and 3 other cars) a ticket for 12 over. I have gotten 2 tickets in the last 9 years but since I moved to the city speed traps have become much more prevalent - this time defensive driving was an easier out than contesting.

The question to me is not how much I have to spend but how much is it worth. I think any mid range detector would work for my needs. $200 or less seems a reasonable price point for this.

Refurbished Escort 8500 X50 is what i decided on after seeing the reviews and test. If you can find a refurbished Beltronics RX65 that would be a good one also. 6 month warranty if you buy from Escorts Ebay site. Both of those are $199 shipped each

i personally think for 200 that its alot of detector for the money

[gsxrtach]

I am not sure - it seems there is a significant amount of reviews where the unit stops working not too long after purchase. Thoughts?

[auskip07]

it comes with a 6 month factory warranty. Usually it stops working a couple weeks after you buy it. I usually follow the 1 month rule and if it works well for that 1 month the chances are very good it will keep working for 2-3 years.

[gsxrtach]

What about the Pro900?

It seems like all the detectors are good and they are all terrible.