Radio Recommendation

[lodi]

I'm a bit fascinated by all of this helicopter stuff. I have ventured in and out of R/C since I was about 12 years old, a million years ago! I started with a Leisure Electric 1/12 scale car in 1978. Boats were next. Then, about eight years ago I got into 1/10 nitro cars with a bunch of co-workers - that was good fun! Looks like I'm back, and once again a newbie!

Over the holidays I picked up an ESky Honeybee FP. I haven't yet mastered it, but I really enjoy it. I will likely get a 450 size electric before long. I don't want to break the bank, but I also don't want something that I'll want to replace in a couple of months. To that extent, I've been exploring the likes of the Thunder Tiger Mini Titan. While my question here is regarding Transmitters and related gear, I'm open to suggestions on the heli too.

So, what's a good radio gear that won't break the bank, but has sufficient capabilities to get me through maybe the intermediate stage? I am familiar with Futaba and it looks like they have some gear that is a good value. If I buy a heli kit with a motor and esc is there a complimentary radio setup that has receiver, servos, gyro or is it better to go ala cart? Any help and guidance is much appreciated.

Dave

[Pinecone]

The best advice, IMO, is to go 2.4 GHz if you are starting from scratch. While it does have problems, overall it is a lot more robust than 72MHz systems.

My personal choice is the Spektrum systems, specifically for a good start radio that will go a long ways with you is the DX7.

The Futaba 2.4 GHz is a good system also, but definitely go to the 7 channel as the 6EX has some serious deficiencies for helis.

But one thing in favor of Spektrum, is the receivers are cheaper, so if you get more helis or even airplanes, long term you will save. :) I figure I have saved over $1000 on Rx prices alone by using Spektrum versus Futaba.

[Old Sloppy]

:) I figure I have saved over $1000 on Rx prices alone by using Spektrum versus Futaba.

I guess I do not understand this comment.

Harry

[Pinecone]

If I had bought Futaba and bought the number of Rxes I have, it would have cost me over $1000 more than buying Spektrum Rxes.