Basic Question

**AndyM** · 08-26-2007, 10:43 AM

Im thinking about getting a V1. Before I buy it I want to understand everything about it. What is the difference between L KA K and X? If you can tell me other things about the V1 it would be great! Also some people say the Escort 8500 x50 is better or just as good as the V1. What do you guys think? Thanks guys!!

**Eleggua** · 08-26-2007, 11:08 AM

Those are the different types of radar in use today. (X, K, Ka) and L is Laser.

The V1 is considerably better than the 8500 X50 in most tests. I have both and use the 8500 X50 on my motorcycle.

It comes down to preference. Do you want a detector that gives you as much "situational awareness" as possible - Arrows so you know where the radar is coming from and the highest sensitivity (V1) or do you want a detector that is real good, gives a bit less information, no arrows etc. (8500 X50).

Here's the thing - Don't over think this. Just buy one. Don't try to learn everything there is to know. It will take a long time to learn and this forum is a great place to hang out.

If you want to start out at the top, get a V1. If you want to go a bit less expensive, the 8500 X50 is a good way to go. If you live in a State where detectors are not legal, and you still want to use one, check out the Beltronics STi (not detectable by radar detector detectors).

Also, liberally use the search functions of this forum as you won't probably find many who will respond to questions such as what does L,X,K,Ka mean. LOL As you read the forums, you will have more answers than you currently have questions.

Here's a simple way to look at this:

Freeway driving - V1 wins hands down.

City driving - 8500 X50 is a bit quieter (but I still prefer the V1 due to the arrows, programming ability etc.)

In a State where detectors are illegal - STi

This is more than enough to get you started. Make a decision, buy one and get started learning to drive with it and being protected.

Remember, a detector alone isn't enough to insure that you get no tickets. You still have to pay attention. :-)

I hope this helps.

**hockey005** · 08-26-2007, 11:16 AM

x2

**AndyM** · 08-26-2007, 11:19 AM

i see..thanks a lot for your help!

**pkquat** · 08-26-2007, 09:40 PM

Use "AND" in your searches. This will help narrow down the responses. Down load the manuals for each so you understand the terminology for each detector. This will help in the searches.

**icantdrive55** · 08-27-2007, 02:49 AM

go to www.valentineone.com for complete information about the V-1.

**danny_isr** · 08-27-2007, 03:16 AM

you mean , to complete the order ?

i liked the X50 , the display there is better. yes no arrows but it's not a biggie . V1 has 80s looks...

you get other information that the V1 doesn't gives you. and it got much simpler Auto Mute that just works.

i found out it's faster to take the X50 out of it's mount then the V1. if you plan to take it in and out every time.

The V1 is magnesium case , it's nice ! X50 is plastic, and nothing is wrong with that.

heard customer service is much better on the V1 and it's upgradeable .
the X50 maybe too for $80 if i'm not wrong.

V1 got two antennas (a rear one) but it's good and bad. better sensitivity and more false s.

in my opinion Escort have different approach , they filtering much more. but there is always the risk you will miss a real threat .
on the other hand , V1 will have (maybe) better range but will false more.
but the problem with falsing , if you start ignore it because of multiple false s
then it will end in a bad way ...

they both good, one is more expensive (if you do motorcycle then the difference is even bigger).
i ended with the V1 because i need EuroMode and the X50 dosnt have it, i like to mess with it. and the X50 is more plug and play then the V1. and the last reason is in my signature .

**icantdrive55** · 08-27-2007, 03:29 AM

no, go to the website to obtain information about the questions he was specifically asking.

too many people come on here asking all these basic questions and should go to the respective websites to obtain that information OR do the search function here.

**Phillip559** · 08-27-2007, 12:02 PM

Only hardcore people use the V1. I guess i'm hardcore so thats why I use it.

**radar_hunter123** · 08-27-2007, 01:20 PM

Originally Posted by AndyM

Im thinking about getting a V1. Before I buy it I want to understand everything about it. What is the difference between L KA K and X? If you can tell me other things about the V1 it would be great! Also some people say the Escort 8500 x50 is better or just as good as the V1. What do you guys think? Thanks guys!!

One thing you never ever do when you first get your detector is speed, always do some scounting find out what bands are used, do they use instant on? constant on? so if you choose to speed do you need bait out infront of you or not? and if laser is used a lot in your area def go v1, and hope you get scatter and use good eyes unless you want to go into jammers then that's a whole different game. But anyway as th