When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Valentine Gen2 and blendmount. I run an R8 in my DD. The V1 Gen2 just had a $100 price increase last week. So I’d recommend the R8 on a blendmount now. It’s plug and play and an easy install.
The best out of the box full unit is the Uniden R8. The V1G2 is a good unit, but only excels when connected with the JBV1 app on an Android smartphone. The Valentine does not have on board GPS, so no lockouts etc without JBV1. IMO, based on experience with an Escort MaxCam 360C and allot of research, the escort Redline 360C would come in 3rd. A good review source is Vortex Radar, he compares all models and provides in depth pros and cons.
I run escort Max 360 radars in most of my cars and I've tried every radar detector out there from the unit R8 to Valentine 1s gen 1 and Gen 2 detectors and right now the escort is the only detector that can reliably filter out false signals from even cars like the Mazda CX-5.
To me it's of the utmost importance that when my detector goes off it is a real signal and I don't have to spend time trying to figure out if it's a false alert or not.
With a Valentine ones and the unidens they would go off and you still have to try to figure out if it's a real threat.
With the escort detectors if they go off you just stand on the brakes and that's it.
Be careful. Unless some things have changed, there may be a problem with the connection on some models. How many successful installations above were for a 1LT only. Any 2LTs or 3LTs?
Be careful. Unless some things have changed, there may be a problem with the connection on some models. How many successful installations above were for a 1LT only. Any 2LTs or 3LTs?
My 2LT pictured above. You need to pay close attention to which ground you tap, but it's not difficult.
Be careful. Unless some things have changed, there may be a problem with the connection on some models. How many successful installations above were for a 1LT only. Any 2LTs or 3LTs?
The best out of the box full unit is the Uniden R8. The V1G2 is a good unit, but only excels when connected with the JBV1 app on an Android smartphone. The Valentine does not have on board GPS, so no lockouts etc without JBV1. IMO, based on experience with an Escort MaxCam 360C and allot of research, the escort Redline 360C would come in 3rd. A good review source is Vortex Radar, he compares all models and provides in depth pros and cons.
All great points. However the V1 Gen2 also works well with V1 driver on IOS. I do agree that JBV1 is the best though. The Uniden R8 I run in my truck has been amazing.
V1g2, mirror tap, on my visor. I also wedged the visor a bit so the the unit sits level...
To me the problem with below the mirror (blendmount) is three fold. It obstructs the view, it's visible from outside, and because it's visible, would have to be removed when parked. The visibility issue applies when dash mounted or windshield mounted... Other people can see that you have one and "piggy back" on your driving AND if the constabulary sees it, if/when they pull you over, you get no leniency. Mounted on the visor with a mirror tap it's all but invisible, not only when driving, but also when parked. I keep a cap in the car for when I would normally need to be using the visor.
Someone here mounts one of the left side of the dash and covers it with a cap when parked. That too solves the outside visibility issue.
V1g2, mirror tap, on my visor. I also wedged the visor a bit so the the unit sits level...
To me the problem with below the mirror (blendmount) is three fold. It obstructs the view, it's visible from outside, and because it's visible, would have to be removed when parked. The visibility issue applies when dash mounted or windshield mounted... Other people can see that you have one and "piggy back" on your driving AND if the constabulary sees it, if/when they pull you over, you get no leniency. Mounted on the visor with a mirror tap it's all but invisible, not only when driving, but also when parked. I keep a cap in the car for when I would normally need to be using the visor.
Someone here mounts one of the left side of the dash and covers it with a cap when parked. That too solves the outside visibility issue.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
C4 of Year Winner (performance mods) 2019
Uniden R3 mounted on top of the center screen (power run to the 12V outlet under the passenger dash). All my previous Vettes I've mounted up high by the rearview mirror, but I actually like it place here on the C8. As for the detector itself, Uniden R3 is the best bang for the buck. Excellent range, good false filtering, and very customizable. Been using it since it came out and it's saved me many times.
Valentine One Gen 2 with the JBV1 app on my Android phone. With the app, I think it's the best all around combo there is. But if you use an iPhone (or no phone), or don't want to bother with setting up two devices, there are probably better choices.
Mounted up high on the passenger sun visor, where it's MUCH harder for a LEO to spot it than hanging from the mirror in plain site of everyone. If you get pulled over, a LEO is much more likely to write you a ticket if he sees the RD, and more likely to give you a warning if he doesn't know you have one.
For unbiased reviews and info, though, check out Vortex Radar's site:
. I have an 8-year-old Escort PassPort Max. Love it as since I mostly drive locally have all radar traps etc recorded and get verbal warnings!!
Had in my 2014 C7, my 2017 C7 and now my C8. Mounted first up high using a Blendmount wiretap. But don't like the unit blocking my view so mounted using their sticky Mount to the right of the mirror. Then decided I like it better lower so mounted now with a 90-degree plug and hidden wires. Details below. If you want a many page PDF PM.
Follow Blendmount taping mirror instructions and NO issues:
.For mounting low on windshield without wire tap. Used this plug that fits flush under passenger dash without getting tangled with their legs.
.Wires routed behind molding, tucked under dash on left and only out at windshield.
Uniden R3 mounted on top of the center screen (power run to the 12V outlet under the passenger dash). All my previous Vettes I've mounted up high by the rearview mirror, but I actually like it place here on the C8. As for the detector itself, Uniden R3 is the best bang for the buck. Excellent range, good false filtering, and very customizable. Been using it since it came out and it's saved me many times.
I have the R3 and like this location. Any details on the mount?
05-18-2023, 08:26 AM
Radar Detectors
