Bel sti driver review

To satisfy our curiosity we weighed the Beltronics STi Driver as well of the other top three detectors without power cords! In an age where consumer electronics tend to get lighter and lighter and flimsy from inexpensive plastic construction , its a real pleasure handling a solid and hefty piece of precision electronic equipment like the BEL STi driver which, like the Valentine V1, has its external case constructed of magnesium which further enhances its stealth operation.

In our previous review we described the Valentine One as the Hummer we actually borrowed that term of radar detectors primarily for its sturdy construction and rugged appearance. In a direct comparison of construction, externally the new Bel feels the most solid by a significant margin and we are pleased to see Beltronics "took out all the stops" on this important design aspect of the BEL STi driver. For those already familiar with the operation of the RX, the operation of the STi Driver is similar with some notable exceptions.

It retains all of the operational ergonomics as well as adding several nice improvements. Ku band is currently not available with this detector. Unlike the RX Pro, there is no setting for Ka International; what impact, if any, this has of Ka reception abroad is unknown at this time.

The Beltronics STi Driver retains the ability to auto mute and provides a quick reach mute button on the power adaptor plug as does the RX With the BEL STi driver, Beltronics has the added capability of auto dimming its display as does the Valentine V1 in different lighting conditions - a most welcomed feature - in addition to providing manual display settings of bright, medium, dim. The Beltronics STi also has the ability to go completely dark. The only indication the unit is on is the LED remains illuminated within the lighter adaptor.

The detector also has illuminated push buttons on the front, which really appeals to our visual senses although we would like to see an increase in the adjustment time to changing light conditions with its auto dimming feature enabled, because we tended to notice a pulsating effect in the evening when traveling between street lights.

The BEL STi driver has the unique ability to have its display inverted to maximize flexibility in detector mounting. From a radar detection performance standpoint it appears the BEL STi is at least on par with the RX65 and V1 across all radar bands X, K, and Ka from ahead and almost equal to the Valentine 1 from the rear even though the Valentine has an additional dedicated rear-facing antenna. Smilies are On.

Trackbacks are On. Pingbacks are On. Refbacks are On. All times are GMT The time now is Add Thread to del. Today's Posts. Mark Forums Read. Radar Detectors Forum Logon:.

Remember Me? Forum Rules. Page 1 of 3. The Beltronics STi Driver is no doubt the best overall windshield mounted radar detector for Canadian drivers. Posted by KMPH. No comments:. Newer Post Home. Subscribe to: Post Comments Atom.