Here's an update for everyone.
First, my friend who works for an auto warranty company recommended Car Toys in Totem Lake (Kirkland area.) He told me they are one of the best install places for stereos and electronics for cars in the Seattle area. Their is a guy names Chris there that is awesome... He has installed these systems for years. Wasn't familiar with Tesla but figured it out and did an incredible job.
Second, I too looked at blinder but didn't want a second system and the reviews I saw on the ZR4 (diffusers that come with the 9500ci) were good. The forums I read said the ZR4 were great, while "sponsored" sites were saying they were crap. I originally planned on installing both systems but the install guys at Car Toys told me the ZR4s work just fine and that he knew people with Blinders that were seeing the same results as he personally had with the ZR4s (They guy Chris had the 9500ci installed on his own Audi, which he showed me before I had anything done. Him having the unit himself was a pretty good sign...) . Since I have had them (about 3 weeks now) I have been lasered about 5 times, two of which I know for a fact I was speeding and luckily had time to slow down while the unit shifts from "diffuser" to "detector" mode (the unit does this automatically after 7 seconds so as to not completely piss off cops.) Two times were state troopers, the other three times were kirkland and bellevue police. As far aI can tell, these things are doing the job and I dont see a need to supplement with the Blinder system
Lastly, as far as placement goes, the guy who did my install has professionally done these things for over 5 years. He informed me that the size of the grill in front of the diffusers wasn't substantial and that the most important part of the install was the leveling. I hear the unit tell me its "shifting lasers" when i get hit by the police with laser and as mentioned above, have not been stopped or ticketed.
Call Car Toys, ask for Aaron and tell him you want Chris to do the install (Aaron works at the front desk.) I don't really care about a referral fee, nor do i think they would give me one if I asked! I was somewhat skeptical but these guys do a great job. Expect it to take about a full day (they wrap all the wires with the corrugated black protectors and finish everything off really nice. My final price for the unit and install was 2,340.00 out the door (about $1,300 for the unit, I talked them down from $1,600, and 800 for the install plus tax.) I know, alot of money but for the setup and protection I am getting, well worth it!
Email with any questions and good luck!
