Radar detectors?

[RandallNeighbour]

Thanks Jax!

[vath2001]

Since I started this debate... my final decision will be towards the Escort (and not a Ford Escort!). The V has high marks, but the Escort seems to do everything the V does and more. The fact I can upgrade the Escort using my PC pretty well seals the deal... no shipping back and forth.

Now... do I buy from Amazon, EBay or Escort direct?
No need to answer... I can handle this myself.
Thanks

[RandallNeighbour]

Vath, what Valentine One does is update circuit boards and chipsets to bring the unit up to speed with new radars and frequencies LEO's use (the last big one was to add POP). This cannot be done via a laptop connect.

I know you've made your decision, but I just thought I'd make this clarification.

If all the prices are the same, I always buy direct because the customer service is better should something go awry with the shipment or the unit you receive.

[vath2001]

The Escort "updates" locations for radar traps... using the built in GPS. Kinda of a neat feature.

But price wise, the Escort is $70 more. How much does V charge for the upgrades?

[RandallNeighbour]

I must say that GPS update for current traps is a VERY attractive feature. I'd like it even more if the LEOs didn't move around so much in their patrol cars though.

Valentine charges varying amounts to upgrade their units, depending on the age of it. So, theoretically you could buy an older unit for cheap on eBay and send it in to have it upgraded to the newest version. Here's some details:

https://store.valentine1.com/upgrades/

If you own one like mine that's three years old, an update is about $60.

[vath2001]

One problem with the upgrade feature of the Escort.... they don't do MAC.
So you would be... let say's "un-compatable".

[mptoledo]

Buy direct or from a bestbuy type of a place. Amazon may save you a few bucks but If its not an authorized dealer you will be screwed on any warranty work if needed.

As for upgrading the software, you have to have the unit plugged in so most of the time you need to take the computer to the car. And for the mac compatibility, well everyone knows somebody with a windows laptop and I am sure they will let you borrow it, I mean you own a Porsche for gods sake, how much of risk could you really be? You can always bribe them with a ride.