What radio should beginners buy

[aeajr]

If you are a beginner, you will need to buy a radio to fly your new plane. So the logical question is, which radio or what kind of radio should I buy.

I just wrote an article for www.rcezine.com on entry level 2-4 channel radios. In doing the research for the article as well as research for a new radio for myself I have come to the conclusion that the only reason to buy a standard radio any longer is lack of confidence that you plan to go forward.

Forget the servos, receivers and stuff you need for each plane. That is the same regardless of what radio you get. I am talking about just the radio.

A standard 4 channel radio is about $55-$85 by itself. Take this Hitec Laser for as an example, $60:
http://www.servocity.com/html/4-ch_laser_4_fm_systems.html

Compare that to the Hitec Flash 4 as an entry level computer radio - $85, or about 1/3 more.
http://www.servocity.com/html/4-ch_flash_4_fm_systems.html

So why go with the Flash 4X computer radio?

cheaper in use -

5 model memories means you can set-up and instantly switch to any of 5 models without having to reset anything. So the Flash costs about $17 per plane.

With the Laser, you would have to reset the radio for each plane each time you changed planes. A time consuming and error prone process. So, most of the standard radio advocates have one radio per model. That's $60 per plane.

With the Flash, even if you only have two planes, it is $42.50 per plane so you saved already.

Go up to the Flash 5X at $110 and you get an extra channel and some really cool features that let you do things no 4 channel radio can do. You get flexibility
http://www.servocity.com/html/5-ch_flash_5_fm_systems.html


Flexibility with the Flash 5X computer radio

The computer radio will allow you to do things you can't do on the standard radio. Forget the channel 5 retracts, let's talk about things that any 4 channel Pilot/plane could use. Here are three examples:

Split Ailerons/flapperons:
You can put two aileron servos in the plane so you can adjust, trim and control them independently by putting each on a separate channel. Still works through the one stick but uses two radio/receiver channels to manage the two servos.

Fly the plane normally. Then flip a switch and turn the ailerons into flapperons. Now you can use your ailerons as flaps during landings. Flaps on a 4 channel plane that doesn't have flaps. That is just one example of what a computer radio can do for you.

Coordinated turns
Mix rudder into your ailerons so you have a coordinated turn. On a standard radio you have to do this manually. With the computer radio, you focus on the plane while the radio handles the coordination.

Compensated flaps
You come in for a landing, you drop flaps, but that causes the nose to come up from the balloon effect. You can manually push the elevator forward to compensate but it is complex and hard to get consistent. With a flap-elevator mix in a computer radio, the radio does the elevator for you and it is exactly the same each time so the plane flies smoothly and consistently.

Compensated spoilers
I use this one myself. Spoilers help with precision landing of RES sailplanes. But when you deploy the spoilers, the plane tends to dive as the spoilers kill the lift of the wing. So you mix in some up elevator. I did this with my plane. Manually I could not get it consistent after 75 landings. Got the new computer radio and now the plane comes down nice a level and beautifully controlled. My landings are much better now because I focus on the plane, not the amount of up elevator to add to the spoilers.

So, for an extra $30-50 over a standard 4 channel radio you get a radio that handles 5 models and let's you do things that the standard radio can't do.

Will you need it on the first plane? Maybe not day one but how about 6 months out? Will you want it for the second plane? Probably! So why buy the standard radio?

There is only one reason to buy a standard radio these days. "I don't know if I will like RC flying so I want to spend as little as possible."

That is the ONLY reason to buy a standard radio anymore. EVER!

Heck for $150 you can get a 7 channel radio with 10 model memories that will do things you don't even know you will want today but will discover in about 9 months of hanging around with the experienced guys. For 10 planes that is a super flexible, super powerful radio for $15 per plane.

The Futaba 7C for example. http://www.servocity.com/html/7ca_transmitter.html

If you get into serious aerobatics or sailplanes, a computer radio is almost a requirement. Even a 4 channel parkflyer benefits from a computer radio.

I have used Hitec and Futaba as examples here because I know those lines best, but JR, Airtronics and others have entry level computer radios that are a much better value than any standard radio.

Get a computer radio and save a bundle of money. And, no, they are not hard to program. In fact if you want, you can just use it as a standard 3 or 4 channel radio until you want to use the other features.

[mhmitchell]

aeajr:

Good artical! You have come a long long way. Now if you will just get away from those Firebird types of park flyers as beginner aircraft....LOL

Have you flown in a soaring contest yet?

Mike

[aeajr]

Just cam back to this thread.

I have flown several club contests. I competed in the Eastern Soaring League event in June.

I am not at all competitive but having a great time.

Just picked up my 5th thermal plane. See the thread on Prism 3M. Also built a ZAGI slope wing, but have not been able to do more than hand throw it so far. Not a lot of good slope flying on Long Island

Love that Aerobird!

[aeajr]

Here is something that works with the radio to help you through your early learning.

Whether you are trying to teach yourself or are working on practicing what
your instructor taught you, situations do arise that can cost you your plane.
Here is a device that might help you through those early flights and might
help your plane make it to old age, the FMA Co-Pilot.

New it costs about $100. That's about the price of a smashed starter plane.
This should help a new flyer get through those early flights with minimal
damage. You just let go of the sticks and the co-pilot brings the plane to
level flight in 1 second.

Backyard Flyer Product review
http://www.backyardflyer.com/BY/articles/co_pilot.asp
Product Review
http://www.fmadirect.com/support_docs/item_1040.pdf
Product Description
https://www.fmadirect.com/site/Detail.htm?item=1489&section=20


FMA Co-Pilot Flight stabilization system - $99
https://www.fmadirect.com/site/Detail.htm?item=1489&section=20
Co-Pilot with receiver $180 - may have extra features - not sure
https://www.fmadirect.com/site/Detail.htm?item=1722&section=29

Available with 5 or 8 channel 72 MHZ receiver, or requires 72 MHz radio
system. Won't work with 27 MHZ equipment.
Also available on 35, 36, 50 and 53 mhz.

If you are starting on a plane with a supported radio system, this might be a
good investment.

[mike85gn]

I always go with more radio than required. I'm a fan of the spend once, save later theory. Radios are cheap compared to when I started ($250 for a 4 channel was normal). Modern, computerized radios allow for mixing and digital control. And multiple channel radios are versatile for when you decide to move into different forms of R/C aircraft, scale and ducted fan models typically require 5 or 6 channels for more "scale" flight.

Here's a fantastic example of a good all-around unit (with servos):
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXCZR6**&P=0

The Flash 5 is a great sailplane radio however, and if you're lucky enough to own more than a few sailplanes, having a radio like this dedicated just for them is a great advantage.

The 7CA is another great all-around radio with a LOT of options, and the price from servocity makes it a great bargain.

I guess my point is I'd rather spend more and have options I'd never use than spend less and go without options I may need down the road, and I agree, nowadays I wouldn't be caught dead buying a non-computerized radio.

[aeajr]

The Futaba 9C has become my primary radio, though pricy for most beginners. It has a removable frequency module and a memory card that allows you to copy your plane settings from one Futaba 9C to another.

I was flying in a contest recently when my plane started flying badly. Short version is that my 9C was having a problem. We took the frequency module out and plugged it into another 9C, then took my CAMPac memory card adn put that in the other 9C. I finished the contest using my friend's 9C with my memory card and frequency module.

Love this radio. If you can swing $300 for the just the radio, this one will do almost anything and do it well.

[aeajr]

The following is a summary of essential features related to airplanes and
gliders. Many of these radios have helicopter features but I don't review
them. I include links to the
manufacturer's/distributor's product page, where available.

Prices - read the description - The range in the start of the group is for the
radio alone. Packages can vary greatly depending on what is incluced. Most
radios come packaged with standard size servos and receivers. These packages
may not be suitable for electric flyers or small gliders. If I see a package
with small servos and receiver, I note the link for the benefit of these
flyers.

Unless noted otherwise, all radios have Low Battery Warning, Digital Trims,
Timers, End Point Adjustment, Dual Rates and Exponential on Ch1&2; some
include Ch 4. All include elevon and V-tail mixes. Unless stated otherwise
radios do not have support for 4 wing servos or split elevator servos.

This article may be useful in understanding the features I mention here and
their value.

Radio Systems Part 2 - Computer Radios - The right choice for almost everyone
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=65


Entry level Computer Radios 5/6 channel - approx $90-110
If your focus in on parkflyers, RES sailplanes, aileron sailplanes or 4-5
channel glow planes, these are very capable for the price. In addition to the
basic 4 channels they have retract, flap and/or split aileron capabilities.
These make great first radios for the committed new pilot, providing features
beyond the 4 channel "standard" radios at a small incremental investment. For
many pilots, these may be all the radio they will need for years. They will
fly more advanced planes, like full house sailplanes or aerobatic planes, but
may
not be able to bring out all the plane can offer.

Hitec Flash 5SX -
http://www.hitecrcd.com/Radios/Flash5.htm
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXRT20**&P=7
This package has small servos and receiver suitabale for electric flyers. The
is a less expensive package available with larger servos and reciever but not
appropriate to small models.
5 Channel, 5 Model Memory, Ch 1/5 provide dual ailerons management for
Flapper, Flaps on 3 way switch or Throttle Stick. Aileron-Rudder mix. No
user defined mixes.

Futaba EXAS -
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futk55.html
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=82
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJUV7**&P=ML
6 channels, 6-model memory, Prop Flaps chi 6, Flapperon using 1/6, 1 user
defined mix. The particular package I have listed at tower comes with micro
servos and receiver suitable for parkflyers

Airtronics VG 6000
http://www.airtronics.net/VG6000.htm
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEUY5**&P=7
This particular package is one of the few I have seen packaged specifically
for the small electric flyer. Comes with two small servos and an ESC. 6
channels, 4 model memories, 6 standard mixes, no user definable mix
capability listed. I can't find any info on the range of the receiver in this
package so I must assume it is around 1000 feet. Suitable for low speed
parkflyers only, unless I can find more range info.



Mid Range Computer Radios 6/7 Channels Approx $130-180 for the radio.
These radios provide a richer feature set than the entry level computer
radios, primarily in more model memories, more surface mixes and switch
assignability. These radios can bring out more of the capabilities of more
advanced planes and give you set-up options the entry level computer radios
lack.

Hitec Optic 6
http://www.hitecrcd.com/Radios/OPTIC.htm
review
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?t=article&cat=281&id=4451
6 channel, 8 Model Memory, Model naming, Spectra channel synth option, Change
channel module, shift select, switch assignability, flight modes, 2 user
programmable mixes, and a variety of standard mixes.

Futaba 7C
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futj69.html
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=321
Review - also compares it to the 9C, the 6XAS and the JR 6102
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4405
7 channels, 10 Model Memory, Model Naming, Switch Assignability, Flight Modes,
3 user programmable mixes and a selection of standard mixes.

JR 6102
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByCategory/Product/Default.aspx?ProdID=JRP6664**
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=305
This is a futaba 7C review, but the author compares it to the JR near the end
of the article. May be helpful if you are trying to compare the two.
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4405
6 channels, 10 model Memory, model naming, selectable switch locations,
Direct Servo Connect (DSC), 4 user programmable mixes, a variety of standard
mixes,

Airtronics RD6000 Super
http://www.airtronics.net/RD6000_Super.htm
6 channel, 8 model memory, Good selection of standard mixes. Appears to have
two user definable mixes

==============================

Radios with 4 Servo Wing Support

Hitec Eclipse 7 - $180 - for the radio
http://www.servocity.com/html/7-ch_eclipse_systems.html
http://www.hitecrcd.com/Radios/eclipse.htm
manual
http://www.hitecrcd.com/product_fs.htm
7 channels - 7 model memory, Shift select, 3 conditional mixes per model,
Channel change module or optional Spectra frequency synth, Five user
programmable mixes, conditional mixes, a variety of predefined mixes.
It is distinguished from the group above in that it has support
for a 4 servo wing and perhaps a mix or two more at $180.

Futaba 9C Super - about $270
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futk75.html
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4600
http://www.servocity.com/html/9ca_super_systems.html


Futaba 9C Super has replaced the 9C that I own, though some places still have
the 9C. 9C Super has unlimited model memories via removable modules, 7
User-programmable Mixes + 8 defined mixes, 4 snap roll programs, two servo
elevator support, 4 servo wing support, customizable trainer program and
switch assignability. This is a very flexible radio.

Unless you have a large budget, I would not consider this a first radio. If
you have outgrown your entry level or intermediate computer radio and want a
significant jump in capabilities, take a look at the Futaba 9C Super.
This is an advanced sport radio, or a budget competition radio, that has
virtually all of the features that advanced sport power and sailplane
pilots are likely to need. It has a very strong following.

Channel Synth module for the 9C and 9C Super
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=542

-------------------------------------------

$400 and up for the radio alone

Royal Evo 9 Channel - $520 w/synth module
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEXV7&P=ML
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/royal-evo-9.htm

Airtronics Stylus - 8 Channel -$440
Optional sailplane card - $120
http://www.nesail.com/detail.php?productID=772
http://www.airtronics.net/stylus.htm

JR 9303 - $450
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByCategory/Product/Default.aspx?ProdID=JRP9269**
reviews
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4643
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=515


If you have $2200 laying around, check out the Futaba 14MZ
http://www.14mz.com/
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJHG6&P=ML

[Malves]

I know we are talking about radios and this thread is excellent. Thank you for all the info. I am looking into buying a 6EXA Super, to use with my first sailplane.
My question is: What should I get for my first sailplane?

Never flew r/c planes, but I'm a licensed pilot. With a limited budget, BTW.:) Around $350.

[aeajr]

$350 includes what? just the plane? recever and servos too? Radio too?

I will assume $350 is the whole budget. Plenty.

This article may be useful. Getting Started in Sailplanes
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=36

My first sailplane was a Great Planes Spirit Select RTF that included a radio, all installed and ready to fly. $150
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXVK55**&P=ML
Add $60 for a hi-start, $4 for balance lead and $10 for batteries and you are flying.

Or, in your case where you are ready to commit to the computer radio, go ARF with a Spirit
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXMK19&P=7
or a Gentle Lady
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXELP0&P=7

Add $180 for the radio, receiver, servos and receiver battery, charger
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXHYK7**&P=ML

Add $60 for hi-start
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXE636&P=7

About $350 for a great plane, a great radio, and the hi-start and you are set for a long time. The radio can handle up to 5 more planes.

go fly!

OH, and $4 for lead to balance the plane. :)
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXK204&P=7

How did I do???

[Malves]

Excellent!:) I was looking at the Spirit Select ARF, but wanted an expert opinion.;) As for the hi-start, I was looking into this one:
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXE638&P=M
Thank you for the heads up with the leads. Didn't know I was gonna need that.:)
I'll make sure to read that article after I get back home from work. Thank you again for your help.

[aeajr]

For easy from box to sky, the Spirit Select RTF is hard to beat.

The Dynaflite Standard hi-start will launch the Spirit, but the HD version will give you better launches, especially on calm days.

[aeajr]

How to pick a new radio

If you plan to upgrade your radio, or if you plan to buy your first, rather
than comparing model to model, I would suggest you take the time to explore
what features are available and focus on your main flying interest as any
radio with 4 channels can fly almost any plane.

These two articles can be helpful if you don't know about radio features.

Entry Level Radios
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=44

Computer Radios
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=65

Think about the type of planes are you are focused upon and what you will need
2 years from now when you go deeper into that kind of flying. Then build your
desired feature list. Ask people what features they use on their radios and
why.

The limitations of your radio will shape what you fly. So look beyond what you
are flying today and think about the next step or two that you might consider
taking some day. If your radio will allow that, you will probably take the
step sooner.

Surf the forums and ask people what they use and why. Ask about any given
radio you are considering. None are perfect but the one you plan to buy may
have a flaw or deficiency that you were not aware of that could restrict you
in your planned flying. Some restrictions may not matter to you.

Try to find reviews. Take a look at the manuals.

Here are some initial thoughts ( remember I always recommend computer
radios ). I am not going to go into every feature of computer radios because
most have a similar base of features. Then they add on top of that. However
here are some thoughts about things that are not obvious.

1) Model memories. I recommend at least 5 for model memories and more is
better. You can have 20 planes, but will they all be flyable at any given
time. Unlimited memory is wonderful but it is only available on more costly
radios. Think more about how many planes you are likely to be flying at one
time. That is the minimum number that you need in model memories. If you
think you will have 3 flyable at one time in two years, plan for 6. Double
whatever you think you are likely to have flyable. That should be enough ...
maybe. I have had as many as 10 flyable at one time.

Channels - 5 would be my bare minimum, and 6 is a better base number. More is
better but 6 gives you a pretty good mix of things you can control and today's
6 channel computer radios are pretty flexible.

At least one user definable mix - I don't know why you will need it but you
want it there so you can do that thing you didn't realize you wanted to do.

Exponential on elevator and aileron. Having it on rudder is a plus, but not
super important. Dual rates are good but I find I am moving away from DR to
exponential.

Shift Select - Maybe this matters and maybe it doesn't. This allows you to
fly both positive and negative shift receivers. If you have a mix, this is
valuable. If you tend to buy used electroncis, this may give you more
options. If you are consolidating a bunch of standard or computer radios that
have different shifts, then this becomes very important. My new radio does
not have this. I wish it did, but it was not so important to me that it
swayed my decision.

Digital trims - mechanical trims are the kind that you slide back and forth.
Digital trims are more like buttons where you tap several times to change the
trim. Why Digital? Because it is very hard to accidentally move a digital
without knowing it. I have bumped mechanical trims during the flight without
realizing it. The plane became difficult or impossible to control. I had not
idea what caused the problem. With digital trims, even if you bump it, will
only move slightly and they usually beep when you move them. In addition,
their setting is normally saved when you turn the radio off, so if you have
the plane trimmed perfectly, it is nice to have that trim position saved with
the model's profile.

Easily swapped radio battery. I often fly for extended periods. Some radios
make it hard to change the transmitter battery. In this case, when the
battery runs down, you are done flying, at least for a while. If you can get
a spare battery, you can just swap it and relaunch IF the battery is easily
replaceable. If you plan to get into slope soaring, where flights can easily
last over an hour, this becomes very important.

I am more focused on the thought process here than the actual list. Your
needs will be different from mine, but here was the list I compiled for
myself, what I chose and why. Your list will be different.

I was upgrading from a Hitec Prism 7X, an older computer radio that I had
purchased used. It worked fine but I was becoming limited by the 3 model
memories and the lack of some features I wanted. I was flying parkflyers and
moving rapidly into sailplanes and slope gliders. My fleet was expanding
fast. Here were some of the key requirements I used. This may help you start
to build your list.

1) high model memory count - at least 8 and preferably more
2) Sailplane profile -
............Excellent sport capacities
............maybe light contest flying
3) Crow/butterfly capability ( for full house sailplanes)
4) Ability to move features to different switches
(my Prism had features that used awkward control placement)
5) Able to fly my negative shift receivers as I have a bunch
6) Able to change channels with swap of a channel module or via a synth
This would allow me to avoid channel conflict if it ever became an
issue
If I got into contest flying, this could be very important.
7) Comfortable in my hands
8) Lots of positive reports on the forums
9) At least 7 channels and programming support for a 4 servo wing
10) Under $200 for just the radio
(remember I was upgrading from a 7 channel computer radio, not buying my
first)

Came down to the Hitec Eclipse 7, Futaba 9C, Multiplex Evo 9, Airtronics
Stylus

All met my criteria. Evo and Stylus were $200+ over my budget and while I
felt they had some better capabilities for sailplanes, they weren't strong
enough to justify the significant extra $$. The Hitec Eclipse was within my
budget and the Futaba 9C was $100 over.

Hitec Eclipse is a solid performer with lots of very positive reports. I was
very happy with Hitec service on my Prism. It had limited but adequate switch
assignability and only 7 model memories. It had 4 wing servo capabilities but
they were limited.

I judged the 9C more flexible, provided up to 2 extra channels, 14 model
memories and expansion to unlimited model memories with inexpensive memory
cards. A channel synth module was coming. It lacked shift select which
would be nice, but I judged to be not critical to my decision. I would have
to stretch my budget by 40% to $280 to do the 9C, but decided that this was a
good investment and the right time to make it.

I am sure the Hitec Eclipse 7 would have done a very good job for me, but
looking back a year, I made the right move. I have has as many as 10 flyable
planes at one time. I like the assignable switch assignments. I love the 9C
and while I didn't think I would need some of the features for a long time, I
am already starting to use them.

Now I am setting up my first scale sailplane and guess what, I am going to use
8 channels right away and will need 9 channels if I put in landing gear and
add spoilers.

That extra $80 was a good investment that will allow me to set this plane up
right. I cold have done it with the Eclipse but I would have had to deal with
some limitations. I am glad I stretched the budget.

I am not telling you to buy a Futaba 9C. I am telling you about the process I
used and what I learned.

Good luck with your new radio.

[aeajr]

New or Used? What should you buy if you are on a tight budget?
by Ed Anderson
aeajr on the Forums


To put a plane in the air you will need servos, a receiver, some misc stuff
and of course, the radio. Let's see how the new packages shape up as
compared to buying a used radio and getting the servos and receiver/crystal
separately.

Just a few years ago, all radios were sold with standard servos and big
heavy receivers. One exception was the Hitec Flash 5SX which came with the
HS-81s and the Micro 555 receiver in what they called the glider package.
As a result this radio became very popular with electric flyers. But the
radio makers finally caught on and have started packaging more radios with
micro servos and micro receivers. I am only looking at packages with micro
servos and receivers that can be used in parkflyers or park gliders.

================
First, if you are planning to stay with small electrics/parkflyers, then go
for a Spektrum DX6. No channels pins to worry about, no channel conflict.
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Product...?ProdID=SPM2460

$199 or less - Let's see how much the radio costs if you were to buy the
parts separately.

4 micro servos - perfect for small electrics -- $15 each - $60
1 micro receiver, no crystal required ------------------- $55
Misc other stuff in the package ------------------------ $20

These are all things you will want for you small electrics $135

So the radio, rechargeable batteries, and charger = $64 - That's all!

=============================
Now if you don't want the DX 6 because it won't fly glow or gliders, or
because you can't buy cheap FM receivers, then look at one of these. They
will all work with a short range 4 channel $29 GWS& crystal or a long range
5 channel $40 Hitec receiver & crystal for the next plane.

Futaba 6EXAS - $160
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bi...I=LXJUV7**&P=ML

3 micro servos--------------------------------$15 each $45
1 micro receiver + crystal for small electrics ------------ $70
Misc other stuff in the package ------------------------ $20

Total for components $135

Cost for radio, charger, battery = $25 for an 6 channel entry level computer
radio - WOW!
====================================
Maybe you like Airtronics better

Airtronics VG 6000 $170
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bi...&I=LXEUY5**&P=7

2 micro servos ------------------------------- $15 each $30
1 Micro receiver + crystal ------------------------------ $65
1 Electronic Speed Control ----------------------------- $25
Misc stuff --------------------------------------------- $20

$140 for the above - you are going to need them anyway!

Radio, charger, battery = $30 for an entry level 6 channel computer radio.
REALLY!
===========================
Maybe you want a little more feature rich radio

Hitec Optic 6 - $220
http://www.hobby-lobby.com/hitec.htm

2 micro servos ----------------------------$15 each $30
Electron 6 micro receiver + crystal ( my favorite)---- $65
Misc other stuff in the package --------------------- $20

Total for components $115

Cost for radio, charger Battery = $105 Not bad for a midrange 6 channel
computer radio!

===================
I wanted to do a JR ,but could not find one with micro receiver and servos
=======================================

Or maybe you are trying to get started for the absolutely lowest price and
have very little to spend. You want to fly a 3 channel parkflyer or a 2-3
channel glider. You will definitely have to go used, right? Let's see.

Hitec Neon 3 channel FM radio, servos and receiver $59.99
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXLGF4**&P=7

The package includes 2 HS-55 servos ---------------$15 each = $30
Micro 05 receiver with crystal ------------------------------- = $40
Misc stuff in the package ----------------------------------- = $10

Contents of the package, if purchased separately - $80

Neon 3 ( uses regular batteries ) = FREE, and you saved $20 on the rest of
the stuff! You can buy the contents and throw the radio away!!!! :D

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Now, you can argue $5 or $10 either way with my analsyis, but it won't
change much. If you are looking for an entry level 6 channel computer
radio, these packages are a great value, and perhaps even better than used
prices. Each of these packages includes at least 1 year warranty and you
don't have to worry what someone else did to it. Now try to buy a
comparable radio, used, for less than this.

Any questions?

[aeajr]

These new Spectrum Radios on 2.4 GHZ seem to be great! Lots of rave reviews.

The DX7 even seems to be able to be programmed for most of the common sailplane mixes.

Good buy frequency pins and shoot downs!

[aeajr]

Anyone want to give us a report on how they are doing with a 2.4 GHz radio?

They are now available from Spektrum, Futaba, JR and XtremePowerSystems just released modules for a bunch of brands.

So who has 'em and how do you like them?

[norcaliflyer]

I was given a slowstick in December and needed a radio. I asked around and everyone told me the perfect transmitter would be the Optic 6. They all said it would be years before I outgrew it. I ran out to the local hobby store and bought one. I think I paid around 180 bucks for it. Then the addiction started. A Mini mag was next, 2 more channels for the ailerons. Ok perfect.... The Optic 6 can do it...
Then came the Hacker 4 D plane... Optic 6 worked perfectly until the plane was fatally wounded by a ground attack.
Next... The Percision Aerobatics Katana Mini. Once again the Optic 6 is the perfect radio...
That's when the trouble started.... 2 weeks ago I ordered the Gabby E from NES.... Wait just a minute... I only have the optic 6.... It will do it but... Not as well as a 7 channel transmitter would.. I can run 4 wing servos 1 tail servo and switch the motor... But I want a fully functional sailplane. 1 tail servo aint good enough and I dont want to y harness anything.
So after a little research I decided there was only 1 solution. A 7 channel transmitter was in the near future. But what one?
I fly at a lot of non sanctioned fields as do many of you. No frequency control is a major concern. Every once in a while I'll land a plane, turn around and see some "nice fellow" behind me with a plane in the sky.... Most of the guys are very good about checking frequencies but there's always that 1 person who doesn't care or maybe doesn't know to check before turning his transmitter on. Maybe he doesn't see you...
So the Spectrum DX7 is on it's way and will get here tomorrow... It's a big relief to know that no one can knock me out of the sky ever again....
The moral is. I listened to everyone and bought what they said was perfect... Was it..
Look at where you fly and where this sport might take you. I've only been at it for 7 months and am already outgrowing equipment..
If anyone is looking for an Optic 6 I know where you can get one:)

Dave

I'll report back after I use the DX7 and let ya know what i think.

[aeajr]

Dave,

Let me clear up some confusion I sense in your post.

First, you can fly a full house pure sailplane on a standard 4 channel radio. Ailerons on a Y cable. Flaps on a Y cable. Rudder and elevator on their own channels. 4 channels and you are flying a pure sailplane.

With your Optic you can do the same and add throttle and have one channel left over. I belive you can even use channel 5 for your second aileron channel so you have split ailerons as well.

ch 1 aileron
ch 2 elevator
ch 3 throttle
ch 4 rudder
ch 5 aileron
ch 6 flaps

This is a perfectly workable set-up, but I guess this is not what you were looking for.

We have a number of sailplane pilots in our club flying in competitions with the Optic 6. Not a full featured sailplane radio but it serves well as an entry level sailplane radio for those on a budget. The Optic 6 has a number of sailplane mixes built in including crow and camber controls. It is not as extensive as a Futaba 9C or a JR9303, but it does not cost as much either.

If you decide to keep the Optic as a second radio and want to take the Optic to 2.4 GHz, XPS has a 2.4 GHz module for the Optic 6. However, since you have a DX7 coming, I believe Spektrum is expected to have a module for the Optic 6 some time in the future. Then you can fly your 2.4 GHz planes using either radio and switch the Optic 6 between 2.4 and 72 MHz at will.

The DX7 likewise assumes you will have flaps on a Y cable. It does not have any programming built in for sailplanes that I am aware of, or the ability handle a 4 servo wing. I have read posts of people doing extensive program and mixing work to get 4 wing servos on independent channels. Not sure how well it works.

So your DX7 will likely be set up as

Ailerons on 2 channels
Throttle
flaps on a Y cable
Rudder
Elevator
6 channels in use.
1 channel for a spare. - Maybe lights or smoke. ;)

If you get the 4 wing servos working on independent channels please post your mixes here so others can benefit from your work.

Good luck with your new e-glider and your new DX7.

If you are serious about selling the Optic, send me a note. I work with new flyers a lot. Many are sailplane flyers and I find the Optic a good fit for them.

I am sure you will enjoy the DX7. It is a great sport radio, but it is not a sailplane radio in the usual sense. That does not mean it won't serve you for a long time into the future. I am sure you will enjoy it a lot!