Uniden LRD2200SWS

Price Paid:  $80.00

Year / Model Reviewed:
 1996 LRD 2200SE

Strengths:
Excellent display system, alarm LED color varies w/ band. This feature, together with X-band filter and audio controls, allows driver to minimize falses while still being able to see the activity on X. Sensitivity (range) is adequate for a small-antenna, downsized unit (often a weakness on 3-banders this size), test data from magazine reviews are encouraging in this respect. Dim/dark modes, filtered modes permit discreet running with audio or visible alarms only. Ergonomically simple but flexible.

Weaknesses:
Sensitive to falses in X band, and occasionally in Ka ("Shack attacks"). Needs to be run filtered in urban/suburban areas. Also sensitive to presence of other radar detectors, difficult to find a "running mate" for dual-detector serious driving. Like other detectors, vulnerable to instant-on, and insufficient sensitivity to permit really serious high-speed driving, a point often lost on RWR-equipped drivers.

Summary:
Paid ~$80 in 1996. Recommended as a good radar detector esp. for highway driving. Detection of laser not observed since I've had it (no encounters), detection of laser from behind moot anyway. Recommend using even on highway with X band filtered (alerts are only muted, LED's still light) to reduce falses and annoyance, esp. with passengers in car. Good value in a second-tier RWR.

Similar Products Used:
Valentine-1, Cobra ESD-6100, BEL 942 Vector, Whistler 1270, Escort, Uniden RD-9XL, Uniden RD-9, Maxon RD-25, Whistler Q-1000, Autotronics Snooper X

Year / Model Reviewed:
 1997

Strengths:
Differently discernable audio tones and visual display. Ergonomic design, fair performance, user memory.

Weaknesses:
Sensitive to falses

Summary:
Bought this radar detector as a refurbished unit at a year end sale for $60CDN + tax. Has proved to be an excellent investment over the years. Not the best on the market, but not the worst performer either. Has excellent highway performance, and very good audible and visual identification of different radar/laser bands. Has all the features/functions you need/want in a radar such as dimmer, mute, hwy/city. Does tend to false fairly consistantly in city driving or when near other "leaky" radar detectors. Overall a great starter radar for the average driver. Am saving up for a Valentine One then will pass this one down to the wifes vehicle.

Similar Products Used:
Cobra, Whistler