Whistler XTR-690

[KheSanh1968]

XTR-690 for my motorcycle as recommended by a poster over my Cobra pick. I want SWS Voice, compass, output for my helmet speakers. Looks like the Pro 78 is easier to read? Are the updates out for the dimming and slowing alert viewing? Is this easy to read outdoors like in a convertible or a motorcycle?

[stray444]

The display on the PRO-78 should be easier to read in sunlight.

[KheSanh1968]

CRAP, no compass on that unit and probably no audio-out. It would be a lot easier if Cobra would get their hear out of there a** and make a better shielded and KA reception unit. IS THIS TO DAMN MUCH TO ASK, COBRA?

[djrams80]

Is it me, or has the compass become an amazingly popular feature?

[KheSanh1968]

I want a compass because an analog compass does not work on my Goldwing, even a Formotion Compass made for bikes. Too much magnetics on the dash from the speakers,etc. This is why I want one. I have a terrible sense of direction. Did you have anything to add about the visibility of the Pro78 over the Whistler ***690

[Silverstreak98]

The XTR-690 did originally have problems with the display being washed out in the sun, but this problem has been fixed with a new lense design.

After I had mine changed I've had no problems viewing the display.

Here is a pic of the XTR-690 display on DIM mode:




The XTR-690 does not have any audio out, but it does have the two LED's on the top of the detector that will flash when alerting. It certainly gets my attention, but I don't know if that would work with your mounting position.

If you want an audio out I would recommend a used Escort 8500x50 (since your'e on a budget) but be warned that they are notorious for showing "service required" a few months after I bought mine used it started displaying this and it costs $60 to repair it.

[tjbender]

I used my X50 for almost 3 years and never once got a "Service Required" message. Only self-calibrated once, if my memory serves me. Granted, I treated that thing like my baby. Never, NEVER let it power up with the ignition--the car turned on, then the plug went in, then the power was switched on. It never sat in direct sunlight--always in a closed box under the driver's seat if it wasn't on the windshield.

Moral of the story--take care of your unit, and it will take care of you. The concern with a used unit, obviously, is that it's only going to be in as good of condition as the previous owner kept it.

[Silverstreak98]

That is true, but all I'm saying is that it is an issue especially if you buy used like I did.

With the detector on a bike, it might be more suceptable to the elements so it might be harder to take excellent care of it.

[tjbender]

That is true, but all I'm saying is that it is an issue especially if you buy used like I did.

With the detector on a bike, it might be more suceptable to the elements so it might be harder to take excellent care of it.

Buying used is a calculated risk. Pay less now, but face the chance that you pay a lot more later.

A detector on a bike would be harder to care for, I agree. Hadn't thought of that. I wonder, has anyone here seen their detector fall off of their bike and go for a ride?