SAB

I need to get myself wired up with a radar detector. I have been wrestling with the Valentine One -vs- K40 decision, but the data I've seen from discussions, tests, and otherwise haven't entirely convinced me one way or the other. I very much want a stealth install, which is not possible with the V1 - but I also want great protection which the V1 seems to get the nod on.

So I'm considering a "pepsi challenge" if anybody out there is willing to take me up on it.

I'm looking for an E39 owner with a recent K40 installation. I'm offering to purchase the V1 and then ship it to you for a week if you'll give us all on the board here some real-world feedback about how they compare when used simultaneously.

Once the test is over, you ship it back and if the K40 wins I return it to Mr. Valentine under their 30 day MBG and get the K40 install. If the V1 does well, I'll just keep it.

Any takers? Email me and we can coordinate.

If I'm being a bozo and there's already such a comparison somewhere PLEASE point me to it! Either way this isn't an inexpensive purchase - don't want to do it twice, if you know what I mean.

Given the issues of windshield glass makeup and tinting, I'd very much prefer an E39 only test.

Thanks!
Shawn

sam

Shawn,

On the second page of this board (one of the first few messages in this new format) I posed a similar question regarding the K40 vs. V1.

Some good answers there but not as comprehensive what you're proposing. I would take your offer but already decided on the V1.

I have to say I'm very satisfied with the V1. I haven't even had my baby for three weeks and can 100% confirm 4 saves (even one from laser - thanks to some scatter from cars in front) - and probably many more where I never spotted smokey.

The only dissappointing thing is that it's not stealth. However, you must take into account that radar detector receivers are more effective when mounted up high - the K40 receivers mount down low, in your grill.

Another thing, the V1 picks up EVERYTHING, and often leaves the judgment in your hands.

I don't have any experience with the K40. I'll sitck with the V1 and will probably add a separate, plate mounted laser jammer.

Hope this helps - and I'd love to hear what happens if you get any takers. Considering the costs and risks to our drivers licenses, it may not be a bad idea to use both!

-Sam

jds

If you guys do this I think it would be great, however, be advised, when two radar detectors are placed near each other, they often interfere with each other.

This is mentioned on the V1 web site. They call it leakage and it is real. I have a Bell and every time a cheap radar detector got close, even in another car, it activated it. It has also happened to my V1.

I haven't used the K40, but my experience with the V1 is that it is the best I have owned by far. Dual detection is key for me. I like to know where they are and if they have passed by or are still ahead. I don't know if the k40 does this, but if it doesn't I don't see how it would be better.

Hope this helps.

J.D.

rebel1

I have the K 40 stealth with lasar jamming. I will participate in your test Email me at
justext@aol.com regards
Bruce

SAB

Folks:

Bruce/rebel1 has volunteered to be the guinea pig on this one. We should have some comparisons going by the middle of next week and we'll post results hopefully by the end of the following week.

This is an unscientific process - we don't have seven types of radar devices to test against - just our friendly neighborhood police folk. Bruce is going to set the V1 up and turn his K40 on and off depending upon the interference per jds's post. And we'll see how they compare in day-to-day driving.

If anybody has any suggestions on any creative tests that might be run sans proper equipment, we're all ears.

Thanks!
Shawn

Roman

This may sound real lame, but I have an Escort which is about 15 years old, and it has provided me with great service and saved my butt more times than I can count fingers on both hands and feet. I only got one speeding ticket during the whole time I had it it, and it was during an "instant on/off" by the trooper and I was driving a minivan (borrowed to haul some furniture during a move).

I also have to wonder how many states actually use laser, because from what a PA. State trooper friend told me once, it is a very expensive and high-maintenance means of catching speeders, and requires training personnel, and considering the limited budgets of many municipalities, how many will go out and get them. Just my 2 cents.

SAB

a quick update for those following this thread.

my V1 showed up on friday. i'm running it through its paces this weekend.

it will be in bruce's hands on wednesday, and he'll run it side-by-side with his K40 for a week or so to see how it compares.

we'll post comments and results afterwards.

re: the potential of interference that was mentioned by jds, the K40 can be switched on and off manually.

shawn

TWC

Just like Roman, I have been using Escort radar detectors for >15 years, having upgraded to their newer models twice. I have found them to be very effective, and like the ability to switch it between my three vehicles that I like to drive fast, my '00 M5, a '95 Porsche 911 cabriolet for sunny weather, and a '93 Typhoon for inclement weather. Despite my habit of driving fast, I haven't had a speeding ticket since I was 19 and I'm 50 now, and the Escort has saved me numerous times. The Escort costs about 1/3 the price of a Valentine.

tfung

Any updates on this?

rebel1

I have had the V1 from Shawn for a week now.
My K 40 stealth and the V1 have not interfered with each other at all, no "leakage" as they say.
So far I have found the following:
The V1 is faster identifying burgalr alarms from the front and much slower from the rear. They are equal from the sides. I have driven around trying to sniff out traps to no avail. On the way to the Auto show I saw a pair of cops sitting on the shoulder of the opposite side of the Parkway, the V1 picked them up sooner. This weekend I'm going to try to coax a state trooper and present client into helping me out.
With laser or "instant on" no detector will be much help, unless it jambs the signal which the K 40 does. Also in the event that you get pulled over for speeding a visable detector is gona get you the ticket. However, with the K 40 stealth mounted system the cop can't see it. If the cop is not a pr..., or a bi... and your attitude is good he may let you go. Clear advantage K 40. I'll post more info after this weekend.
Happy motoring
Bruce Peter

Alan

Has anyone out there had any experience with the lidatek laser echo? I have a v-1 which I swear by, but it is pretty much defenseless against intant on laser. I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks in advance.

Alan

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rebel1

the K 40 jambs the signal. The cop gets a scrambles reading no MPH. By the time he tries again your pats em.