I tested the V1 side by side to the passport 8500 and they worked nearly identical in all situations, however that was back when the V1 and 8500 were on top so its been a couple of years... So I assume theres been advancements with the V1 just like with all the other products...
I myself was happy with the quality of the 8500 (and couldnt beat the discount I got on it). I have to pick something up eventually and if its not a V1 (I seriously hate the size of it) then Ill probably pick up an 8500 x50 or better (Im not sold on the 9500i yet).
First of all, you can't run two or more radar detectors at the same time because they interfere with each other.
Read about it here:
http://guysoflidar.com/twodetectors.html
http://valentine1.com/lab/DoItYourself.asp
If you hate the size of the V1, then you must really hate the alternatives.
Size (from smallest to largest):
Valentine One -> 16.20 cu. in.
Bel RX65 Pro -> 16.33 cu. in.
Bel STi -> 16.33 cu. in.
Escort 8500 X50 -> 18.95 cu. in.
Escort 9500i -> 21.72 cu. in.
Weight (from lightest to heaviest):
Valentine One -> 181.5g (6.40 ounces)
Beltronics RX65 Pro -> 236.6g (8.35 ounces)
Escort 8500 X50 -> 253.7g (8.95 ounces)
Escort 9500i -> 269.2g (9.49 ounces)
Beltronics STi Driver -> 291.6g (10.29 ounces)
The 9500i is the largest in size and the Bel STi Driver is the heaviest. The Valentine One is the smallest and lightest radar detector of the top 5 radar detectors made today.
Nothing can touch the performance of the Valentine One and it is $50-$100 cheaper than the top of the line Bel or Escort (same company) radar detector.
http://guysoflidar.com/august-2007/radar-detector-test.html
