I searched thru several radar detector threads and they all seem to be around the fully installed versions. Does anyone here have good experience with the new windshield mounted ones. I'd like to be able to use it as needed in all my cars so I'm leaning towards the windshield option if they work well. I realize they may not provide the same level of protection but it's sure better than nothing.
The Passport MAX and Passport 9500ix seem to be the higher rated of the windshield versions that I've researched so far.

 

I have a hard wire set-up for the 9500ix in both of my cars. I then just move the detector itself from car to car. I probably would have got the MAX, but it was not yet available when I got mine. The Escort products are terrific and either model gives radar protection as good as any of the stealth models. The difference is simply that they're more visible. The real downside of those products is that they really don't help with laser because they only detect (and then it's too late). The integrated models "shift" (great euphemism) the laser beam. That's what you really need for laser protection. However, there are better, more specialized ways to accomplish that - specifically Laser Interceptor. 9500ix/MAX + LI is the way to go, imo.

 

Curiously enough I have the 9500ci and a Max in my car. Here's why: the ci radar detector stays low in the front, behind the bumper (as per escort instructions). The radar (more common than laser in TX) detection is significantly delayed, being too late most of the time for the common radar disposition here - after overpass. It got so ridiculous that my old 8500 would detect 10 seconds earlier than the ci.

I decided then harwire a Max as high as possible on the windscreen, hiding the wire. It's far better in radar detection but laser (no "shifting" allowed in tx) is borderline useless.

I would have removed the ci and used a zr4 with max if I didn't already had it installed. That will be my solution for the next car.

I have a 9500xi in the GL, excellent piece, would do fine replacing the max, but I got a decent price so I went with the max. A caveat is that only amber will be visible with the top down on a sunny day, max out the brightness. Volume is a bit weak as well.

 

2 pieces of feedback here:

1) I think your install is done badly or there is an issue with your detector. My Bel StiR+ installed in my front bumper completely crushes my Max in terms of detection range. The key is mounting it very low and having it unobstructed (not behind the bumper). Mine is mounted with automotive accessory tape on the lower spoiler but far enough back to be level.

2) The newer Escort/Bel CI models have band segmentation which enables them to detect instant-on at longer distances. Something the Max can't do.

 

The Max is much better. than the ix The V1 and Redline are also very good. V1 and Redline are best in terms of sensitivity, Max is better in terms of filtering falses so you are less likely to ignore a real warning.

Regardless of whether you go for a windshield unit, you ought to have a laser jammer if you want real protection. Otherwise you are playing russian roulette in terms of speed enforcement mitigation. This is why most people have installed setups - laser jammers have to be installed on the bumper outside the car to have direct line of sight to the lidar gun

BTW I have:
- Bel STIR+ custom installed setup with Laser Interceptor Quad HP in my cars
- Passport Max portable for when I am driving a rental car
- Zaon MRX plane detector for long distance trips where aerial enforcement is likely

 

I use a V1 hanging on a BlendMount. I also have it hard wired in using a MirrorTap. You can purchase both accessories for all detectors mentioned in this thread at: http://www.blendmount.com/?gclid=CLO...FQ-DfgodApUA9g

 

Can Max be installed/integrated vs windshield mount?

 

Been using Escort/Passport windshield mounted radar in all my cars since the '80's and they have always worked great.

 

I have Escort 9500ix and Laser Interceptor. Both have save me numerous times, too many to count. Having Waze helps as well.

dhill911 - how did you mount your radar with the mirrortap?

 

Thanks everyone for the great feedback. It's good to know the windshield option is still a good one. I'm leaning heavily towards the escort Max, and possibly adding an additional laser protection. There are so many extras from the smart cable to the annual defender database update to the annual escort live subscription. Then the additions charges for any laser protection. A lot to research before I order. I'll check out the links you all posted for more info.