R3 1.54, Max 3, Pro M w/ Ka filters, CR97, and Road Scout vs. 33.8, 34.7, & 35.5

[Chris KH2PM]

Thanks @Vortex for another awesome Red Barn course test. It's good to see you had some free time to purge your mind. Yes, family time comes first.

Looks like you had great weather as well to be out and about.

The Road Scout might be interesting for me as a standalone combination on my motorcycle. Currently I'm running an R3, but I really need a dashcam as it seems every time I ride, something happens that I wish I had video of (drivers pulling out in front of me, or crossing the centerline. Or maybe just an awesome curvy backroad that I want to save on video). Here's a pic of my R3 mounted and hardwired on my Kawasaki Versys 1000.

Thanks again for your videos, and looking forward to your next test session!

 

[Vortex]

Thanks @Vortex for another awesome Red Barn course test. It's good to see you had some free time to purge your mind. Yes, family time comes first.

Looks like you had great weather as well to be out and about.

The Road Scout might be interesting for me as a standalone combination on my motorcycle. Currently I'm running an R3, but I really need a dashcam as it seems every time I ride, something happens that I wish I had video of (drivers pulling out in front of me, or crossing the centerline. Or maybe just an awesome curvy backroad that I want to save on video). Here's a pic of my R3 mounted and hardwired on my Kawasaki Versys 1000.

Thanks again for your videos, and looking forward to your next test session! View attachment 163620

Yeah the forecast calls for rain most of this week and Monday was the only clear day so it was nice to take advantage of that.

As for the dashcam thing, have you looked into motorcycle-specific dashcams like the Thinkware M1 or Viofo MT1? I've never tried one out, but maybe that'd be a good option too, especially since you already have an R3? Having the dsahcam built into the detector is definitely more convenient though, for sure.

Also, that's a Garmin 60CSx! How do you like it? I had one years ago for hiking and later used it for driving too, back before cell phone GPS's were more common and I adored mine.

 

[brettw1515]

Thank you for taking time to test these products... God bless you brother.. and your family.

Sent from my SM-G981U using Tapatalk

 

[DC Fluid]

Yeah the forecast calls for rain most of this week and Monday was the only clear day so it was nice to take advantage of that.

As for the dashcam thing, have you looked into motorcycle-specific dashcams like the Thinkware M1 or Viofo MT1? I've never tried one out, but maybe that'd be a good option too, especially since you already have an R3? Having the dsahcam built into the detector is definitely more convenient though, for sure.

Also, that's a Garmin 60CSx! How do you like it? I had one years ago for hiking and later used it for driving too, back before cell phone GPS's were more common and I adored mine.

I have the same Garmin handheld.
Haven't used it in a long time, all cell phone maps and apps for hiking now.
It was very accurate and I mapped lots of mountain biking trails for local clubs.

 

[Bossdad71]

The way mike b said it was it scans k band, 33.8 and 35.5 and 34.7 has a sweep if it's own. @Vortex

Post automatically merged: Nov 7, 2020

Awesome ! Thanks for testing. Testing is a way to clear your mind for sure.

Huh??

Post automatically merged: Nov 7, 2020

Thanks @Vortex for another awesome Red Barn course test. It's good to see you had some free time to purge your mind. Yes, family time comes first.

Looks like you had great weather as well to be out and about.

The Road Scout might be interesting for me as a standalone combination on my motorcycle. Currently I'm running an R3, but I really need a dashcam as it seems every time I ride, something happens that I wish I had video of (drivers pulling out in front of me, or crossing the centerline. Or maybe just an awesome curvy backroad that I want to save on video). Here's a pic of my R3 mounted and hardwired on my Kawasaki Versys 1000.

Thanks again for your videos, and looking forward to your next test session! View attachment 163620

Unless all they use is c/o I wouldnt. When , oh heck I cant remeber his name, crackerhead or something like that and I tested, it never I mean never picked up an i/o shot from any distance

 

[rd4117]

Awesome test report, as always. Not the purpose but it keeps me in the R3's corner - such a great value.

 

[Chris KH2PM]

Also, that's a Garmin 60CSx! How do you like it? I had one years ago for hiking and later used it for driving too, back before cell phone GPS's were more common and I adored mine.

I mainly use the Garmin 60CSx for my trip log (distance ridden, time riding/stopped, max speed etc) but rarely use the map database. I can download the track log files off the GPS if I want to map out some neat backroads that I've ridden on and can't remember where they were. I love the 60CSx. It's a tough unit with great battery life and a nice color screen.

I have a cellphone mount for my Android phone right in the middle down below the speedo/tach. I run JBV1 in Standalone mode, and VVaze as well in addition to the Uniden R3 radar detector. I hear the voice alerts from JBV1 in my SENA BT headset which is nice as it's not easy to hear the R3 at highway speeds.

I'll look into the motorcycle specific cameras. SENA has a couple nice models, the 10C EVO and 10C PRO, that's built into a BT headset/intercom that I'll research as well. I'm currently riding with a SENA 10S and love it. Have over 26k miles of riding with it on this motorcycle.

 

[RoadDogg]

@Vortex , Thanks for taking the time to test this group of detectors. For those who don’t need or want arrows, this test shows the R3 (and R1 for those those that don’t need GPS) is still is a great value and a great performer. Even though I prefer to run a detector with arrows, I have no plans to sell my R3, and I still enjoy running it occasionally because it is such a beast.

The R3 out performed the more expensive Max 3 and Pro-M which is what I would have expected, and the CR97 did held it’s ground in the same neighborhood as the Pro-M. Thanks again for all that you do for our community. We appreciate you and all of the other testers on the RDF!


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[Cobra Kai]

I'd say I'm disappointed in the Road Scout, but I'm not and that is part of the reason why I decided to sell it. When I heard it was based on the 9200BT, I thought maybe it was worth it and with a dash cam too (sold)! Honestly, it's a good concept by Cobra but its execution leaves a bit to be desired. I would recommend for the price, getting the DualPro 360 instead, or something else entirely!

 

[Bluelinex]

I'd say I'm disappointed in the Road Scout, but I'm not and that is part of the reason why I decided to sell it. When I heard it was based on the 9200BT, I thought maybe it was worth it and with a dash cam too (sold)! Honestly, it's a good concept by Cobra but its execution leaves a bit to be desired. I would recommend for the price, getting the DualPro 360 instead, or something else entirely!

Their is noting wrong with trying to save $$$ the trick is to get your moneys worth. For me I think the best bang for the buck detector right now is the Uniden R3. You can pick one up right now for around $300 and when they are available on the Uniden web site a factory refreshed one for about $225. It has just about everything you need Red Light & speed cam info MRCD/CT detection and range right up their with the best of them. All that's missing are the arrows but at $300 or less who cares about the arrows.

 

[Cobra Kai]

Their is noting wrong with trying to save $$$ the trick is to get your moneys worth. For me I think the best bang for the buck detector right now is the Uniden R3. You can pick one up right now for around $300 and when they are available on the Uniden web site a factory refreshed one for about $225. It has just about everything you need Red Light & speed cam info MRCD/CT detection and range right up their with the best of them. All that's missing are the arrows but at $300 or less who cares about the arrows.

You've been vocal about your love for the R3. I respect that, as it mirrors my thoughts on the DualPro 360.

 

[DC Fluid]

@Vortex Thanks for the test! Always giving me ideas and providing important information on the products.
I have ordered some new detectors and new radar guns.
This test gives me a benchmark and I am looking forward to adding my data to your own for comparisons.
I will be able to run:
R3, Pro M, Max 3, DP360, Max II all head to head (R7 can take a pass on this one but DP360 comparisons inevitable because arrows)
Guns: Falcon HR, Talon 35.5, GE 35.5 & 34.7, Python II K & 33.8, Bushnel Velocity
Any requests for the most desired combinations of guns and settings to make it relevant?
Curious about any particular match ups?
Planning to do this during work down time during Xmas break.
Cheers,

 

[Vortex]

@Vortex Thanks for the test! Always giving me ideas and providing important information on the products.
I have ordered some new detectors and new radar guns.
This test gives me a benchmark and I am looking forward to adding my data to your own for comparisons.
I will be able to run:
R3, Pro M, Max 3, DP360, Max II all head to head (R7 can take a pass on this one but DP360 comparisons inevitable because arrows)
Guns: Falcon HR, Talon 35.5, GE 35.5 & 34.7, Python II K & 33.8, Bushnel Velocity
Any requests for the most desired combinations of guns and settings to make it relevant?
Curious about any particular match ups?
Planning to do this during work down time during Xmas break.
Cheers,

Sounds like a great setup!

Ka should be pretty straightforward, settings-wise. The Pro M is the only bit of a question mark of if it should be run with the Ka Filter on or off.

K band is always time-consuming and involved, given all the different filtering options and even how your speed can adjust the detector sensitivity. You can try going for all out range and turning off all the filters, even if that's not practical. You can try turning on Auto Mode or TSF or varying the Pro M's TS Rej levels. I personally try to aim for realistic settings for each detector as well as max sensitivity while still being realistic (ie. not turning off the K filter on the Unidens).

There's always a zillion different things you could test... long range with different settings, on-axis vs off-axis, QT testing at a distance, and on and on.

Looking at your lineup, I'm personally curious to see the Max 2 vs the Max 3 to see how the platform change affected things. Do you know of anyone around who has a Max360 or Max360c you could borrow? It'd be interesting to see how the DP360 falls in line compared to those.

 

[DC Fluid]

You've been vocal about your love for the R3. I respect that, as it mirrors my thoughts on the DualPro 360.

I have Escorts with similar performance and features to the DP360, and DP360 and Max 3 are on the way to me now.
I would still take my R3 over them on a strictly performance basis, based on where I live and drive.
Extreme range can mean everything in my low traffic, forested, mountainous twisty roads northern BC area.
If I was to drive every day in the city only, I would be happy(happier) with a DualPro, Max 3 or my Pro M? AutoLockouts, better BSM filtering, Auto(Auto City) modes etc. may be the push many need for an easy, friendly and quiet user experience, with still exceptional protection.
That said, I drive everywhere with the R7 and can't bring myself to use anything less. LOL.
R7 experience has been great for me and I have no need of these other conveniences. The rest are backups or a hobby.
So really the well used phrase "There is no one detector perfect for everyone" is very true.
Value, performance, convenience, they are all in the eye of the beholder.

Post automatically merged: Dec 1, 2020

Sounds like a great setup!

Ka should be pretty straightforward, settings-wise. The Pro M is the only bit of a question mark of if it should be run with the Ka Filter on or off.

K band is always time-consuming and involved, given all the different filtering options and even how your speed can adjust the detector sensitivity. You can try going for all out range and turning off all the filters, even if that's not practical. You can try turning on Auto Mode or TSF or varying the Pro M's TS Rej levels. I personally try to aim for realistic settings for each detector as well as max sensitivity while still being realistic (ie. not turning off the K filter on the Unidens).

There's always a zillion different things you could test... long range with different settings, on-axis vs off-axis, QT testing at a distance, and on and on.

Looking at your lineup, I'm personally curious to see the Max 2 vs the Max 3 to see how the platform change affected things. Do you know of anyone around who has a Max360 or Max360c you could borrow? It'd be interesting to see how the DP360 falls in line compared to those.

Hahaha, I seen your Pro M Ka filter results and though "Yes, instant upgrade", rushed over to my wifes purse, grabbed the Pro M and immediately turned Ka filter on.... Definetely will test on/off even if in a stand alone test.

K Band testing is time consuming. I keep setting up testing to answer all the questions and possbilities, and end up cutting back to 1/4 of my plan just to make it possible. I agree that using the most likely daily settings is how most tests will go forward with enough variations to see the effects of critical settings.
Going to do a good Auto Mode comparison with the Escort products.
Max II vs Max 3 I predict the Max 3 will come out on top in range and BSM filtering. The Max II seems to be discontinued on firmware support and has not had any BSM improvements in a long time. It needs K Notch quite badly.
I am interested in the DP360 vs Max 3 to see if the latest firmware vs. Max 3 new platform compares on BSM and reactivity. I believe that will be a closer call. I expect the DP360 to match or slightly exceed Max II ranges, and be on par with Max 360 series.
I have messaged @Heywood and he is responsive to testing the DP360 vs MRCD and he has Max360c around too so we may get an impression from him. Little does he know I will now have a Max 3 to add to the package too! LOL
I intend to ship some of these detectors around to testers for their inputs as well.
I really have to stop trying to buy up everything of interest before my spousal auditor starts looking for the monies.

 

[Cobra Kai]

@Vortex Thanks for the test! Always giving me ideas and providing important information on the products.
I have ordered some new detectors and new radar guns.
This test gives me a benchmark and I am looking forward to adding my data to your own for comparisons.
I will be able to run:
R3, Pro M, Max 3, DP360, Max II all head to head (R7 can take a pass on this one but DP360 comparisons inevitable because arrows)
Guns: Falcon HR, Talon 35.5, GE 35.5 & 34.7, Python II K & 33.8, Bushnel Velocity
Any requests for the most desired combinations of guns and settings to make it relevant?
Curious about any particular match ups?
Planning to do this during work down time during Xmas break.
Cheers,

I can't wait for them tests to be done, and I agree the suggestion from @Vortex about possibly including a M360/M360c if you can find one.

 

[biolink]

@Vortex What do you look for in a course to create reasonable separation and avoid clustering? I'm looking at running a few tests of my own. I want to make sure the results aren't slanted and my course doesn't show bias.

 

[DC Fluid]

@Vortex What do you look for in a course to create reasonable separation and avoid clustering? I'm looking at running a few tests of my own. I want to make sure the results aren't slanted and my course doesn't show bias.

My two bits:
Fairly straight and flat for at least 5 - 6 miles so the extreme range detectors don't max out.
Some foilage or trees lining the roadside to dampen down reflections and outright distance.
Good place to set the radar gun up, that allows you to vary from straight down coarse to very off axis. You will need to turn radar antenna at angle so you don't max out course. The trick is to select a setup that gets you into a distance from gun that is not maxed out or terrain limited by hills or curves, starting with your most sensitive detector and powerful radar gun.
If you can get a couple miles distance for your most sensitive detector, and it's a gradual alert (not BAMN, as you come over a rise or around a corner) then all the others should fall in place with a nice spread of alerts, most sensitive to least.
More off axis gun should just tighten up the distances but have similar results in order of reception. (Unless a particular detector sucks at off-axis)
After a few setups you will get the hang of recognizing test course potential. Because you will have a few hang ups getting started.
Good luck and looking forward to more testers!

PS: There is a thread here somewhere about "What makes an good test" and I think it may be a sticky. If I have time I will look.

 

[Brainstorm69]

@Vortex What do you look for in a course to create reasonable separation and avoid clustering? I'm looking at running a few tests of my own. I want to make sure the results aren't slanted and my course doesn't show bias.

@biolink - Try looking through this thread. Honestly, it's more of an art than a science, unfortunately.

Advice for finding a testing course? | Radar Detector & Countermeasure Forum (rdforum.org)

There is also some advice on courses in this post:

Definitive testing and steps to an ideal test! | Radar Detector & Countermeasure Forum (rdforum.org)