downnshift's Full Review: Escort Passport 7500 Radar Detector
I purchased the Escort Passport 7500 because I wanted a radar detector that would not give me a lot of false alarms and could track multiple radars at once. Kudos to Escort! Overall, this is a wonderful step-up radar detector; BUT, they do need to work out a few kinks. Initially, when I purchased this radar detector I was thrilled! I love the multi tracking ability it has; however, it takes some getting used to because the little bars don't tell you how near you are to the source -- it only tells you that a signal is present by displaying a half bar for a weak signal or a full bar for a strong signal.
This is especially handy when driving down convenience store lined local state highways which motorcycle units strategically mask themselves within. They can set up near a gas station to pick off inattentive drivers -- the radar will respond by informing you of the several X band threats of the automatic doors while SIMULTANEOUSLY detecting the KA speed detection radar. You still must heavily rely on the squawk of the radar to determine the intensity of this threat. I praise Escort on the laser detection function of this radar; it can detect a lidar source 1 1/2 to 2 miles away (on the straightway), which is astonishing compared to the Bel detectors I have owned!
The Passport 7500 poorly detects hand-held radars and speed monitors when aimed from an acute angle such as hiding between the pillars of an under or overpass. In these situations it sure would be nice to have those directional arrows and the rear antenna found in the top-end Vallantine detector. Remember, no matter what you've got, without a rear antenna if instant-on radar comes up behind you -- it's over.
The passport 7500 has a really user-friendly setup programming feature. I appreciate the graphical display and the little dot that can be programmed to scroll across the display while in "hwy" "auto" or "city" modes. The ability to turn off X band altogether in "city" mode is useful but, if you live in Irving, Texas or travel through there I STRONGLY recommend that you don't since this is their primary speed check band! Also, the quick release windshield mount is great because you can slide the detector on and off in a "jiff" so no one will steal it! Lastly, I bought my detector because the safety radar is very useful because it keeps you alerted of road conditions ahead or approaching emergency vehicles. This alone saves you time and keeps you alert when you have a vehicle shorter than an SUV. And folks, it's an Excursion and Mad Mom in MiniVans world out there! Drive safely.
In short this is a great "bang-for-the-buck" radar detector - especially if you don't have $415 dollars laying around for a V-1. Please email me if you have further questions pertaining to the Passport 7500.
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.