Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I got the Vector 995 because its performance is at par with the top of the line radar detectors from Bel, Escort, Valentine. Even though I rarely speed above general traffic flow, speed enforcement has picked up a lot and I didn't want to pay back-door taxes.
Its radar detection performance is at par with the best of them - usually just 5% or so less than the best for a given test. But the cost difference is way more than 5%, more like 25%+. Its laser detection is its weakness, but only when compared to the top of the line models. However, the laser detection weakness isn't really critical because laser guns are so fast and accurate that the officer has already clocked your speed before even the detector alerts (even the best one). Don't take my word for it, just go ask your local police officer. Also, the rear facing sensor is quite useless on most detectors - someone in marketing thought it would be cool and all other brands followed. It is also one of the very few detectors which can detect the Ku band, which is rumored to be introduced in the US soon (already there in Europe).
It also falses significantly less than what I've had before. I can't compare with the top 4 because I don't have them. AutoScan works best in city or when in new areas; Highway works best on rural areas or highways. Use AutoScan with care, it filters all bands and can potentially reduce detection range (because it spends some time figuring out if the radar signal pattern is like those from typical sources of falsing). Its Tech mode (showing radar freq) can be used to find out real speed gun threat when a cunning officer hangs out in an area where detectors often false (drugstore, grocery store, etc) - not fool proof though. One should note that the 'false alerts' are not really false - they ARE actually radar signals in the same band used by police. It's called 'false' because it's not a 'cop' radar signal.
POP mode, while a nice feature, usually trigger a lot of falsing on most detectors - because of leaky/crappy detectors like the Cobras. I've enabled POP for the last 3 weeks and have run it in AutoScan and City modes - no difference in falsing. Even the top 4 detectors today can't beat this. Also, the review/description is wrong - POP is disabled by default on the 995 also (maybe Bel changed it after the review).
The Vector 995 is the only one in the Vector series that can have its firmware upgraded by Beltronics - useful if they have some bug fixes and/or they have an update that does better detection.
It also has a few less features than the top 4, but I didn't care for those. Its got all the essential features one really needs for its intended use and does them extremely well. Its stellar performance makes it an awesome deal for a $225 price. I got mine on a special sale at Amazon for even less :). However, like any radar detector (even the best ones), this radar detector is NOT a cop detector - so drive sensibly.
Even when the 995 is having a bad day, it is waaaaay better than the most expensive Cobra/Whistler radar detectors.
Like any product, it has quirks:
1. 3.5mm jack volume - it's just too loud even at one click above minimum (I use it when spouse/kids are sleeping on a long drive)
2. Buttons for visor clip - if you get the visor clip, the buttons are not easy to reach
And last but most important, please drive carefully. Lives are more important than seconds/minutes saved by excessive speeding and rash driving.
Bonus tips:
a. Tutorial mode - manual doesn't mention it, but I stumbled on it. Press the Dark and Mute buttons down and then the Power button to turn the unit on. Voila - tutorial mode!! Power button press exits this mode.
b. Audio/Voice alerts - learn to identify the bands with your ears, the range based on audio beep frequency, it helps keep your eyes focused where they need to be - on the road. I've turned Voice off after a couple of months, and rarely need to look at it (except in Tech mode).
c. Ebay/Unauthorized dealers - Beltronics honors warranty from authorized dealers only. Amazon itself is authorized (may change in future), Amazon's sellers are not. Ebay is not, most stuff there are refurbs or rejects and hence the low low prices. You've been informed, use common sense.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Beltronics V995 Vector Radar and Laser Detector (Black/Silver)
Whether the threat is in North America or abroad, the Beltronics Vector 995 radar detector keeps you driving safely. As the industry leader in technology and innovation, the V995 accurately detects all US radar and laser bands (X, K, Ka) as well as the UK favorite-Ku. All bands are detected at the furthest possible distance including the newest "POP" mode Ka-band threat. With clear voice alerts, you can keep your eyes on the road, not the detector. And when it does alert, the mute button is right in easy reach on the included SmartPlug power cord. No need to leave the detector behind while traveling--we include the hard sided protective carrying case so the detector goes where you go.
Superior Detection The Vector 995 includes full X, K, SuperWide Ka, Ku and Safety Warning System radar capability, laser detection, patented Mute and AutoMute features, audible and visual band alerts, and all the performance you'd expect from Beltronics.
Digital signal processing (DSP) technology and multiple laser sensors give you long-range performance, and greatly reduce the number of false alarms. On top of that, the Vector 995 is invisible to VG-2 radar detector detectors, keeping you one step ahead. It also features Highway/City sensitivity settings to tailor performance to your needs.
Easy to Use The rugged Vector 995 gives you control right at your fingertips. Patented Mute and AutoMute technology allows you to quickly silence alerts. Advanced programming lets you customize several features, and all controls are easily accessible on top of the device.
Installation is also a snap: use the quick release Windshield QuickMount to attach it to your vehicle's windshield, and remove it in a snap. Don't want to leave it in your vehicle? No problem, Beltronics includes a travel case to keep it secure while you're on foot.
AutoScan Mode The V995's AutoScan mode provides long-range warning, with minimum false alarms. In this mode, the V995's internal computer continuously analyzes all incoming signals and intelligently filters out false alarms.
Voice Alerts The V995 provides digital voice announcements of radar and laser bands detected. If Safety Radar (SWS) is turned on, a safety radar message will also be announced.
Smart Plug Included Once you are notified to a threat, Beltronics' SmartPlug makes it easy to temporarily silence your radar detector with a handy mute button.
Ultra-Bright LED Display Don't miss a visual alert with the 995's 280-LED alphanumeric display. Exclusive threat display tracks and displays multiple radar signals, including signal strength. You can also view Safety Warning System (SWS) messages about upcoming hazards, construction and more.
Enjoy three different brightness settings or operate in dark mode if you'd prefer only audio alerts.
Total Tracking Laser Unlike Radar signals, which are highly reflective, Laser signals have very poor reflective characteristics. Many of today's Laser detectors do not have the high sensitivity necessary to detect Laser within a large "field of view." The Vector 995 incorporates Beltronics' best laser detection, which uses twin laser ports to detect energy far outside the main laser beam--including off-axis signals--providing a 360-degree field of view. The alerts provided by your unit are the same whether signals are received from the front or rear.
How Safety Radar Works Safety Warning System (SWS) a modified K-band radar signal to alert users of Highway Construction or Maintenance, Highway Hazard Zone Advisories, Weather Related Hazards, Travel Information/Convenience, and Fast/Slow Moving Vehicles. The SWS safety radar system has 64 possible messages (60 currently allocated), all of which can be displayed on your Vector 995.
What's in the Box Beltronics V995 Vector Radar/laser Detector, carrying case, coiled power cord, quick release windshield mount, owner's manual
Click here for more information about Beltronics V995 Vector Radar and Laser Detector (Black/Silver)
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