I got my Valentine 1 like six years ago, without laser detection ($300 at the time). I stopped keeping up with the radar detector technology since then. I haven't had any tickets since then either. Never updated my V1, is it worth it? Do any other detectors have the directional arrow thing? I want a cheaper detector for my motorcycle.
The reason why V1 is the best: A. the direction arrows- allows you to see where the radar is rather than a simple "beep." B. Bogey counter- shows how many emitters are out there. C. No detector can even match the V1 for overall features for the money, a few might be slightly better with detection ranges with a specific band, but overall, the V1 trumps them all.
I love my Passport 8500. It has saved me numerous times and doesnt seem to false nearly as much as my last uniden dector did. Its pretty close to the valentie v1 and costs half as much. I would really like its directional feature though...