[net.auto] Radar detector query

mdiz@ihtpa.UUCP (Mark Disbrow) (11/30/84)

I am looking to buy a radar detector in the near future, but
I have very little knowledge of which detector is the best.  I have heard alot
about the "Escort" being the best.  But I did a little research
on the topic and have found that the Whistler "Spectrum" has
outperformed Escort in some trials.  In fact, a number of
magazines (Car and Driver, Motor Trend) have given the
nod to Whistler.  I'd really like to know what people who
are well versed on the topic, or own a top of the line
radar detector think.  This is going to be a Christmas present,
so please respond soon.  Also, is dash mount best?

                                Thanks,
                                Mark Disbrow
                                ihnp4!ihtpa!mdiz
                                (312) 979-2419

trb@masscomp.UUCP (Andy Tannenbaum) (12/01/84)

I'm a long time Whistler owner, first a Q-1000 and now a Spectrum (the
Q-1000 was ripped off).  I figure that there's no real difference
between Spectrum and Escort, and I figure that there are other boxes
with similar specs.  Right now, I drive with my box velcro'd to the
dash (use contact cement if you do this, the normal stickum on the back
of velcro won't life thru the summer), if I had it to do again, I'd get
a remote unit, with the antenna behind the grille (my GTI has a plastic
grill) and the switches and indicators installed inconspicuously down
by the base of my stick shift, where it's invisible to cops or
theives.  I think you might as well go for that convenience, given that
you're spending ~$250 already.

Note that I love my Whistler, it's saved me a mess of money, but it
won't save you from a strobe radar gun on an empty highway:

[This happened to me, driving in Maine at night in September.
Converstation below is quite close to accurate.]

[Fleep!]
Me: I'm in trouble.
[Cop pulls me over.]
Cop: Do you know how fast you were driving?
Me: Nope.
Cop: 87 mph.
Me: Oh, I didn't know I was going that fast.
Cop: Oh, I think you did.
[What it's a good thing I didn't say:
Me: No officer, I didn't know.  My speedometer pins at 85.]

	Andy Tannenbaum   Masscomp Inc  Westford MA   (617) 692-6200 x274