That's what I hear over and over! Installers typically like what they know how to install.

It takes a bit of time for a Compustar installer to learn DEI and the same when A DEI installer goes to install a Compustar.

 

$649.99 ... U.S.???

And seriously, that's how much it costs to have a "Okay, I don't need anything else" type of alarm.

I'm really worried about my car getting broken into and I just want to purchase a security system once and for all and be happy.

I guess I'm going to have to read through all the posts but I just had to comment in this one, since I'm looking casually as well.

 

SST ( Spectrum Technology) Is the new stuff that's coming out...hence the pricing

Realistically, no alarm can prevent your car from getting broken into, it's more a deterrent and to give the thieves as little time as possible to take things from your vehicle.

All of the top alarms pretty much do the same things (most are made by DEI anyway) so it's more of a preference thing.

I'd stick with a compustar or Viper since they're the most popular models and you'll have plenty of support.

 

I've installed a viper or two, as well as some of a few other brands. Vipers are pretty good. Crimestoppers is another option that works well as a combo unit, with one or two way. One of my personal favorites however has to be Clifford. They have a lot to offer, and aren't that hard to install.

 

It never ceases to amaze me when I see a client come into the shop with a high end car, looking for a security system with the bells and whistles, only to balk at the price. Considering the car is worth a few thousand $$$, and the cost of securing the car is less than 1% of the value of the car.
As an installer I can tell you this with certainty:
-No matter what brand or how cheap or expensive the alarm is, it will only be as good as the installer that put it in.
-a $150 alarm can protect a car just as well as a $1000 system (pre-installation price)
-If your installer thinks like a thief, and then figures out how to prevent another thief from undoing his work, you have a great installer, and the best protection your money can buy.
Most places will charge a basic installation at a rate of 3-4 hours, which will not include several features. and the experienced installer can perform these tasks in 1-2 hours, BUT, a conscientious installer will take 4-5 hours to do a proper job, by hiding the alarm brain where it cannot be easily found, and same for the Siren and important sensors and cables.
In essence the installer is MORE important than the brand name, and it is up to YOU, the consumer to ask questions.
Keep in mind that even the best system can be defeated by a determined thief, and that an Alarm system is a deterrent, not a bullet proof argument, nothing prevents a thief from throwing a rock and breaking in, but the alarm will tell you it's happening.
Personally speaking I refused to compete with "cheap" quotes, and in so doing developed a loyal clientele, whose systems are still working to date.
I did not use crimp caps, yes I soldered. It's how I install in my own car.

 

as an installer I 100% agree. the make/model of the alarm is 10% of it's effectiveness. the biggest problem I find is lowballers that just wanna hear "beep beep" when they push a button and pay as little as possible. A Proper install takes a good bit of time and a skilled technician. a "beep beep" install will in all likelyhood cause you more grief that it's worth with false alarms, and other issues.

yes at the shop I currently work at we have little comic strip/sign making fun of "beep Beep" installations

 

Got a new one for all of you, very similar to the Viper HD, best range, features and the COOLEST OLED remote you will ever see!!!! Crimefighter! pm me for details

 

"It never ceases to amaze me when I see a client come into the shop with a high end car, looking for a security system with the bells and whistles, only to balk at the price. Considering the car is worth a few thousand $$$, and the cost of securing the car is less than 1% of the value of the car.
As an installer I can tell you this with certainty:
-No matter what brand or how cheap or expensive the alarm is, it will only be as good as the installer that put it in.
-a $150 alarm can protect a car just as well as a $1000 system (pre-installation price)
-If your installer thinks like a thief, and then figures out how to prevent another thief from undoing his work, you have a great installer, and the best protection your money can buy.
Most places will charge a basic installation at a rate of 3-4 hours, which will not include several features. and the experienced installer can perform these tasks in 1-2 hours, BUT, a conscientious installer will take 4-5 hours to do a proper job, by hiding the alarm brain where it cannot be easily found, and same for the Siren and important sensors and cables.
In essence the installer is MORE important than the brand name, and it is up to YOU, the consumer to ask questions.
Keep in mind that even the best system can be defeated by a determined thief, and that an Alarm system is a deterrent, not a bullet proof argument, nothing prevents a thief from throwing a rock and breaking in, but the alarm will tell you it's happening.
Personally speaking I refused to compete with "cheap" quotes, and in so doing developed a loyal clientele, whose systems are still working to date.
I did not use crimp caps, yes I soldered. It's how I install in my own car. "

- The best online response I have ever read - perfect!

 

100% Agree Westec! i have been an installer for 17 years and have seen it all and heard it all!! People just need to take the time to do it right!

DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW I CAN GIVE SOME FREE STUFF AWAY?
I have a brand new product that i would like some feedback on, how do i sell stuff on here? LOL sorry im new and don't want to break any rules!

 

I agree I find that the vipers have to much on them as far as onboard relays and such. It seems that they tried to cover every odd ball car out there, they are also a pain to program if you don't have a bit writer. Not that there bad units though. I prefer the compustar or compustar pro(better looking remotes) but you can't really go wrong with either. Take your advice from your installer, because we'll recommend what we're familiar with and in the end that's what makes the differance ELI 47 say's it perfectly.