Re: Valentine 1

[William Elliott <William.Elliott@mail.mei.com>]

Just thought I'd offer my opinion on the V-1.  I have both an older (1992) 
version
sans laser and a new (1997) version (w/laser). I bought the1997 first and the 
1992 for $180 complete with all accessories from someone wanting a new one.

The basic differences?  The 1992 is not as loud, x-falses more, and always 
powers up in the "all-bogies" mode.  (The 1997 version powers up in the last 
mode selected.)  However, it's overall sensitivity (on X, K, and Ka) appears to 
be about equal to the  1997 version (seat-of-the pants impression, not 
scientifically validated opinion ;-) )

On laser?  I'm sure it is as great as Automobile claims (perfect score), but my 
real-life experience:  every time it's gone off it would have been too late 
(had I been speeding at the time.)  I think it would have to be a very unusual 
circumstance for this feature to actually save you.  Any BTDT's with laser 
detection?

Overall, I think the V-1 is a great investment and the directional capabilities 
are something that sounds like a gimmick.  Frankly, I don't know how I'd 
survive without it!   But I'm not sure I'd spend the money to update or replace 
the older version.  

Of course, I just use it as a 'reminder' to check my speed... wouldn't want to 
be 'inadvertently' speeding. ;-)

Bill Elliott
85 UrQ (honestly Officer, I couldn't have been going THAT fast in this old 
Audi!)