(888) 524-7889CONTACT US
0Item(s)

You have no items in your shopping cart.

Today's special: Radenso XP for only $299.99! Was $349!

Product was successfully added to your shopping cart.

Monthly Archives: December 2015

  • Veil G5 Stealth Coating video with the Veil Guy

    Veil G5 Stealth Coating is a passive countermeasure against police lidar that can add valuable seconds to your reaction time in case of an alert. Just how effective is it? How does work? If you already have a radar detector or laser jammer, why would you need even it?

    Get the answers to all of these questions and more in this exclusive video interview, as Bob Rosania, CEO of Veil Corporation, explains what Veil G5 is, how it works when properly applied to your vehicle, and why it is a critically important component of a complete radar detection system to protect you from laser threats. Plus, you'll hear it all straight from the Veil Guy.

    Veil G5 Stealth Coating is available from Buy Radar Detectors.

  • Why are radar detectors illegal in Virginia?

    As of October 2018, radar detectors are legal for use in each of the United States except one (Washington D.C. is not a state). That state is the commonwealth of Virginia. Recently a reader of our blog asked, why are radar detectors illegal in Virginia? While it may seem like an innocently nescient query to some, and a purposefully rhetorical statement to others, it is a genuinely perplexing one, especially considering the fact that, out of all fifty states, Virginia is the sole hold-out, and seemingly rather defiantly so.

    As for why the law exists, the general argument is that radar detectors encourage drivers to break traffic enforcement laws, particularly in regards to speeding. However, according to opponents of the law, the ban on radar detectors does nothing to prevent speeding, and can actually make the problem worse. They contend the law is archaic, and is unfair to those who live in surrounding states where radar detectors are allowed and travel or commute over the border with the device in their possession. Also, Virginia uses other methods for speed enforcement that a radar detector cannot detect anyway, so the presence of one in those cases has no effect at all, and therefore does nothing to circumvent the law. Yet this logic seems all but lost on the majority of Virginia lawmakers.

    The law banning radar detectors in Virginia has yet to be repealed, but it's not for lack of trying. In 2010, The Virginia House of Delegates voted down HB674, a bill to repeal the ban on radar detectors introduced by Delegate Joe May(R) - House District 33, who argued that the law was unfriendly to travelers through the state. In January 2015, Del. Dave LaRock [R] introduced House Bill No. 2079, "A BILL to repeal §46.2-1079 of the Code of Virginia". On January 28, the Virginia House of Delegates voted to table the bill, and on February 11, 2015, passed the buck to the Virginia House Transportation Committee, where it was "Left in Transportation", and is still sitting as of the date of this article.

    Why are radar detectors illegal in Virginia, still? At the end of the day, it is a question that only the lawmakers of Virginia can answer, because it's their law. Whether it is by the will of the people of Virginia or just its delegates remains unclear, but nevertheless, as draconian as it seems, and until further notice, it is still their law.

  • Escort Sticky Cup vs. the standard windshield bracket

    Escort Sticky Cup Mount.jpgXLT radar detector mounting bracket.jpg
    Escort fairly recently changed the type of suction cup that they ship with some of their higher end radar detectors. What was once a small, traditional metal bracket with two suction cups is now a larger bracket with a single large, prominent, Sticky Cup. The Escort Max, Max2 and the new Beltronics GT-7 all include this new Sticky Cup.

    The Sticky Cup is more than just a windshield mount with a super sized suction cup. It is literally sticky, hence the name "Sticky Cup". The cup itself has a sort of sticky, gummy surface on the suction side, presumably to help it grab the windshield glass better.

    And grab the glass it does. Once the paper backing is removed from the sticky area and the cup is placed in the desired position, it's a simple matter of closing the locking clamp to create the suction in the cup and seal it tight to the windshield.

    Not surprisingly, the Sticky Cup can handle the weight of the premium Escort and Beltronics detectors. Since the suction cup itself is considerably larger and "stickier" than the small, clear cups included with the standard metal windshield bracket, that is certainly to be expected. It is also quite adjustable. There is a large knob on the side of the bracket allows you to rotate the bracket on the mount to position the radar detector at the desired angle.

    The Sticky Cup does seem to have a lot to offer in comparison to the old, standard radar detector mount, and at first glance one would think it is far superior in every way. However, it does have some drawbacks, a few which may put the plain, two cup mount back into consideration.

    Consider this.

    The Escort Sticky Cup is large. It is also a solid, completely opaque black. this makes the Sticky Cup a lot more noticeable. Some may consider the Sticky Cup a little too big to be discreet at all. The standard metal brackets are small, and the dual suction cups are clear or translucent. This type of bracket is not as noticeable on a windshield as the Sticky Cup.

    The Sticky Cup is one single cup. Unlike the standard mounts, which typically have two suction cups, the Escort Sticky Cup is completely on its own. Why is it something to consider? Well, consider this. Any suction cup can lose suction from time to time. It just happens. If it happens to a two cup mount, there is a chance they may go one at a time, which gives you time to catch it first and instantly re-mount it before everything falls down.

    However, when the Sticky Cup goes, there is nothing to hold it back. You can't count on the sticky surface of the cup to delay it. The stickiness just isn't sticky enough to counter the weight. When it falls, It just falls, and everything, the cup, the mount and the detector, falls with it. You simply won't have time to react.

    Adjusting the Sticky Cup is easy, but it is somewhat limited. The big plastic knob is certainly better for adjusting the angle of your radar detector. Simply loosen the knob, tilt the detector, and tighten the know again. There is one limitation. It adjusts in steps. They are very small steps, to be sure, but they are still set increments.

    In contrast, the standard metal windshield mount can easily and instantly be bent to the degree desired, without loosening or tightening something in the process. Simply bend the mount exactly to the angle you want, and let go. You're done.

    Removal of the Sticky Cup can take longer than the removal of a standard two cup mount. Taking the Sticky Cup off a windshield is a two step process. First, the locking clamp must be released, which can be a bit cumbersome to get to if the radar detector is mounted at an angle that obstructs your access to the clamp and if you have big fingers. After the clamp is unlocked, you must pull the tab at the rim of the cup to release the suction and remove the mount.

    To release a standard two cup mount, simply grab the edges of the cups with your fingers and lift them from the surface of the windshield. With a little practice, this can be accomplished in one deft move. Such speed may be necessary if, say, you are pulled over in a jurisdiction where radar detectors are illegal (Virginia and Washington, D.C.) and you quickly want to hide it away from view.

    The Sticky Cup is sticky. It can be seen as an advantage over a regular two cup mount, but it can also be a disadvantage. Sticky surfaces tend to pick up dirt, dust and other artifacts very easily, which can severely limit or completely hinder the ability of the cup to stick to anything at all. According to the instructions, the Sticky Cup can be rinsed under warm water to clean it off, but care must be taken to keep the dirt at a minimum.

    The standard two cup detector mount, on the other hand, can be cleaned with a simple wipe down, if needed. Since the little cups on these mounts are usually smooth and not sticky, in most cases, a cleaning it isn't even needed.

    The Sticky Cup costs more. the Escort Sticky Cup mount sells for $29.95. While it's not the most expensive mount on the market, it is a premium, to be sure.

    The Bel Pro / Escort Windshield Mounting Bracket is about half that price, at $14.95.

    The best deal of all is the XLT Brand Windshield Mounting Bracket for Beltronics / Escort Radar Detectors. it includes a second pair of suction cups as part of the package. Plus, it comes with free shipping. This one is a real bargain. It's only $6.99.

    If you want a premium mount for your Escort or Beltronics radar detector that supports it, and you don't mind the caveats, then the Escort Sticky Cup may be the mount for you. Before you choose, consider it from every angle, not just the one posted for the product. We want you to be satisfied with your purchase.

  • Cobra SPX 7800BT video review with the Veil Guy

    Cobra Radar Detectors have been around for decades, and Cobra has long been a well recognized brand within the detector market. Unfortunately, when compared with Beltronics or Escort , it wasn't always the most respected. However, that perception may be changing for Cobra detectors, and even more so when bundled with Veil G5 Stealth Coating.

    In this exclusive video interview with the CEO of Veil Corporation, Danny Feemster from Buy Radar Detectors talks with Bob Rosania, aka The Veil Guy, and finds out what he really thinks of the Cobra SPX 7800BT Radar Detector with Bluetooth® technology. He tells us what he likes about this Cobra detector and why he uses it when on the road.

    The Cobra SPX 7800BT and other Cobra radar detectors are available from Buy Radar Detectors.

  • Tinted windows and radar detectors

    The performance of a windshield mounted radar detector depends on a several factors, aside from the features and limitations of the detector itself. The detector needs to be configured properly, installed in the right location on the windshield, and mounted at the just right angle for optimal pickup of both radar signals and laser beams. There is one more factor to consider. It is a key consideration of your entire radar defense system that is often overlooked, but is very important, because it can severely hinder performance of any radar detector, low or high end, no matter how good it may be.

    It's your windshield.

    If your windshield is tinted, as most are these days, it will likely affect the ability of your radar detector to detect radar or laser. Some tinted windows use polymer or ceramic films, coatings or dyes. Other tinted windows, particularly those installed in some luxury vehicles, use a tint containing metals. Radar does not penetrate metal well, and if your radar detector cannot pick it up from the other side of the glass, you won't get an alert.

    In addition, since the primary purpose of window tinting is to shield against the sun and other bright light, it can also reduce the intensity of a laser beam as it penetrates the glass. This can negatively affect the ability of your detector to detect a police laser threat.

    The scope of the problem depends on the type of tinting you have, of course, and the area it covers. If only the top portion of the glass is tinted, you're in luck, all you need to do is reposition the detector below the tinted area. However, if your windshield is fully tinted, beware. You may have a problem.

    If you purchase a radar detector and it doesn't seem to work or perform to your expectations, check your installation before you return it or toss it in the trash. It may not be an issue with your detector at all, it could be your windows.

  • My radar detector doesn't work

    It's a given that all radar detectors are not created equal. Some are more sensitive than others, and the more expensive, higher end models tend to have many more features and functions along with an expected increase in overall performance. Of course, there are always exceptions, and there is a sweet spot between cost and performance, which can ultimately reveal a radar detector that provides the best overall value.

    Some folks who buy radar detectors, particularly those who are new to the whole detection thing and purchase one for the very first time, rely on branding, features, price, or reputation alone. They set their expectations based solely on their familiarity with a manufacturer's name, product marketing hype, how many bells and whistles it may have, how much it costs, or the personal or professional recommendation of someone they know or trust.

    Unfortunately, some of them are quick to return the detector or toss it in the trash if it doesn't meet or exceed their expectations or perform as they think it should. These users immediately put the blame squarely on the radar detector itself, and may even lose faith in the entire brand. Yes, a thirty dollar radar detector may not be the best countermeasure on the road, but a $400 model? Surely it must be defective, right?

    Wrong.

    True, some detectors are better than others, and there are even some devices that are DC powered junk. However, there are other factors that determine the value and performance of a radar detector, most of which have little or absolutely nothing to do with the choice of detector itself. In fact, many performance issues can be alleviated or resolved without a replacement, repair or upgrade.

    Proper installation and placement
    Where you mount your detector has a much greater impact on performance than the detector itself. Placement also depends on whether you intend to use it more for radar or laser (lidar) detection. place it in the "sweet spot" and your economy model may serve you well. Mount it anywhere else and your premium priced model may not detect much at all.

    Understand the limitations
    Radar is line-of-sight, so all radar detectors will have that limitation of detection. Don't expect your radar detector to pick up a radar gun that isn't aimed in your general direction or isn't even turned on. Also, laser is much faster than radar and no radar detector on the market can detect a laser beam until it has already been hit, which means you've already been clocked. For a more effective defense against laser threats, an additional countermeasure such as Veil G5 is needed. Although it won't prevent a ping, it will slow down the process, giving your detector time to alert you before you're clocked, and usually giving you a little time to react after you get the alert.

    In addition, there are other methods of traffic enforcement that don't involve radar or lasers at all, such as VASCAR. Your device simply can't detect them. You can't blame the detector for that.

    Learn the features
    Learn what the features are and how they work. Some manufactures re-label certain features with trademarked titles or names, but it doesn't necessarily mean they do the same thing any better. It's just a label. Learn what these functions really are and what they do and don't do. What is the difference between K, Ka and Ku detection, and why is that important to know? What is VG-2 detection? What is POP mode? What is TSR? Learn about these features before you use the radar detector for the first time. Read The Manual. Do it first. This is important for proper configuration of the detector.

    Proper configuration
    Once you know the features, you need to properly configure the device. Often a radar detector doesn't do its job simply because it wasn't configured well, or configured at all. Adjust settings accordingly for city and highway use. Filter out unwanted alerts from locations known for false signals, such as nearby retail locations and buildings with automatic doors. Set up visual and voice alerts or mute them as needed. Proper setup and configuration will optimize your detector for best performance.

    Proper operation
    Your detector can't alert you if the alerts are disabled or the device isn't even on. That's certainly not the detector's fault.

    Upgrades and maintenance
    An old detector with an outdated database or firmware won't help much against the latest radar and laser threats. A new detector that isn't updated or maintained well won't make it much better.

    There's a lot more to using a radar detector than just turning it on. It is important to understand how it works. Proper placement of the detector is key, and a thorough understanding of its features, limitations and general operation is also important. Yes, it is easy to bash, trash or return your detector to the dealer, but before you cast it to the curb, be sure it's due to a malfunction and not a misconception. It may not be what you think.

  • Beltronics GT-7 unboxing video

    Beltronics recently released the GT-7 radar detector to market. This sleek new addition to the Beltronics line looks a lot like an Escort Passport Max with a more colorful, copper shell, but is it the same thing, or is it something else entirely?

    In this video, Danny Feemster from Buy Radar Detectors opens up the box, turns it on, and takes you through the menu for a first look at the features of this radar detector.

  • 2015 Escort Radar Detector Comparison Chart

    Escort has completely revamped their line of radar detectors during the last year or so, improving both performance and looks. As an Authorized Escort Dealer, Buy Radar Detectors has them in stock and available for delivery right to your door. From the classic, cordless Solo S3 to the powerful and sophisticated Passport Max2, there is a radar detector for almost any type of driver, but which one is right for you?

    This quick comparison chart lists some important features of Escort's current models. You can also compare the new models to older, classic, legacy models listed in the 2013 Escort Radar Detector Comparison Chart. In addition, there are other resources available to help you choose, including videos, articles and product comparisons between specific makes and models of radar detectors currently available.

    The chart below includes popular models across the Escort line.

    Escort Model GPS Voice Alerts Display USB Undetectable
    Passport 8500ci Plus Text
    9500ci Text
    Passport Max2 OLED
    Passport Max GPS Filter OLED
    Redline Text/Graphic
    Passport 9500ix Text
    Solo S3 Text
    Passport OLED
    Passport 8500 X50 Black (Blue Display) Text
    Passport 8500 X50 Black (Red Display) Text
  • 2015 Cobra Radar Detector Comparison Chart

    Cobra has gained some respect with their current line of dash mount radar detectors. As an Authorized Cobra Dealer, we carry them in our warehouse at Buy Radar Detectors for immediate delivery right to your door. We also have several resources to help you shop for the radar detector that fits your needs, such as articles and reviews, product videos and our online comparison tool.

    Below is a list of the Cobra Radar Detectors currently available from our online store with a comparison of popular features. To compare the current models in this chart with previous models, refer to our 2013 Cobra Radar Detector Comparison Chart. You can also compare them to our 2013 Beltronics, Escort and Whistler radar detector comparison charts.

    Cobra Model GPS Voice Alerts Display USB Undetectable
    SPX 5300 LED VG-2
    SPX 5400 LED VG-2/Spectre 1
    SPX 5500 Data/Text VG-2/Spectre 1
    SPX 6700 OLED VG-2/Spectre 1
    SPX 7700 LED VG-2/Spectre 1
    SPX 7800BT via smartphone LED VG-2/Spectre 1
    DSP 9200BT via smartphone OLED VG-2/Spectre 1
  • Escort Passport Max and Max2 video review with the Veil Guy

    Escort Radar is well known for its Passport radar/laser detector series, and two models in particular, the Max and Max2, stand out as some of the top products in the Escort line. But are they? How do they really compare, even when bundled with Veil G5 Stealth Coating?

    In this exclusive video interview, Danny Feemster from Buy Radar Detectors talks with Bob Rosania, CEO of Veil Corporation, also known as The Veil Guy, as he reviews the Escort Passport Max and Max2 side by side. He also tells us what he thinks of the Escort StickyCup Mount and how it compares to a standard windshield mounting bracket with two suction cups.

    The Escort Max, Max2, StickyCup and other radar detector products are available from Buy Radar Detectors

10 Item(s)