I tell you what. I purchased a Whistler 1743 at Meijer for $70. I know it may be weaker than some, but that thing picks up from FAR AWAY! It was going off because of a cop that was nearly 3 exits away! The detector also has features taht arent mentioned. It dectects that "pulse" thing out now (even tho the manual doesnt mention it). It doesnt have a full icon display like the manual says, rather, it has an icon and number display. The numbers go from 1-9 in closeness. It also shows P when pulse is detected and says "K-Band Pulse!" It talks and has more features I like. It auto-lowers when it beeps for more than 5 seconds. After about 5 seconds, the beeping (and voice) lowers to a non-annoying level. VERY COOL. Even cooler, can make sure you are awake by randomly saying "Stay alert" and you have to press any button to make sure u arent falling asleep. It receives all the lasers, bands, and even traffic and emergency signals. It has seperate K and Ka readout. It has 1 highway and 2 city modes.
It is the coolest (and really dependable) radar I have ever owned!
just my 2 cents...