Radio for Newbie

[logcabinman]

I have almost been convinced by guys here and elswhere to purchase a Raptor 50 as a learning machine before going for a Joker Maxi as my camera platform. Can you help me with radio choices, I would imagine I would start using the radio on the Raptor and then change to the Maxi or can you use the radio on both.....

I do not want to purchase a new radio with each machine unless necessary.

Thanks in advance
Malcolm

[Hotshot Charlie]

JR 9303
JR 8103
Futaba 9C

To me that is the only choices.

[WayneBrown]

modern computer radios are setup for multiple model memories so that 1 transmitter can hold settings for several aircraft.

[NolanManley]

I think the Futaba 7C is a great alternitive to the $250 plus radios. All the same stuff as the 9C but in 2 less channals. ;)

What ever you get make sure you get the Heli version so switch locations is not a problem when getting help.

[Hotshot Charlie]

Nolan, you are totally correct.... I just like to see someone go ahead and get the 8 or 9 channel, then they don't have to upgrade for along time.... plus, if the hate the hobby and decide to get out, it's a lot easier to sell it.

Hope you are doing well and hope to see you at IRCHA SE !

[PaulH]

I would personally recommend the 9C over the 7C. I find the screen to be more readable. The radio itself has a few more options and mixes than the 7C, which may be useful to you as you progress in the hobby.

[NolanManley]

Good Points.

I'll be there one way or another Rob. Looking forward to seeing you again. :D

[WillJames]

Other thing to consider is if he runs a governor and gyro with TX adjustable gain the 7C may not have enough channels to run multiple headspeeds with an ON/Off and selectable gain on the gyro with the 7C.

[logcabinman]

Thanks for all your advice.........I am going for a Futaba 9CAP unless any one suggests a reason not tooooooo

Cheers and thanks again

[Hotshot Charlie]

Be sure to get the "H" or "Heli Version" !!!!

[Clintstone]

I would also go synth. because you never have to worry about getting a frequ. Crystals get expensive. I travel alot and the synth. RX and TX are the Bomb!!!!!!!
I feel the 9ChSS. is the best bang for the buck. ( SUper Synth. ) There are some deals around on some 9C TX's

[Bayou Talker]

Another reason for the 9CHP is you are planning to use it for a camera ship in the future. The extra channels on the 9C may also come in handy for use with the camera equipment.

[AndreMan]

Hi, I'm completely new to this and learning what I can.

I would also like to use some camera equipment at some point but for the moment, while I continue to read and learn, I am going to buy a radio and sim so I can at least get some practice.

Given the choice for the same cost, would you buy the JR8103 "package" with 4 servos and receiver, or the JR9303 radio only?

Thanks for the help.

Andre

[WayneBrown]

More channels is always better than less.
The 9303 comes in a package as well.

[svein]

At 7 channels you might end up a tad short on your camera ship.

Consider the following channel "usage"

1-Aileron
2-Elevator
3-Throttle
4-Rudder
5-Gyro Gain
6-Pitch
7-Governor

Now, where to put the camera trigger?

//Svein

[Tom Fiddler]

9CHP is the ticket
DON'T buy anything from JR..... It's Junk!! :D :D :D :D
I used to have a JR radio..... Then my welfare check came in and I was able to UPGRADE!! :D :D :D

(Flame suit ON!!)

[svein]

Ok, so I won't consider a 9xII as an upgrade for my Hitec Eclipse :oops:

//Svein

[Person]

I cant belive that there has been this many responses, but no one has said to buy the best radio that you can afford.

IMO, you should be looking at 2 radios, both 9 channel systems expecially if you plan to use it on a camera ship. Those camera guys usually put lots of stuff on that gobble up the channels real fast.

9c and 9303.

Also, dont skimp on electronics. Buy the best that you can. If you have to save up a bit to get a little bit better stuff.

Right now I am in the process of removing and selling my old electronics for some funding for some newer better stuff.

[AndreMan]

Thanks to everyone for the feedback

Andre

[WayneBrown]

9CHP is the ticket
DON'T buy anything from JR..... It's Junk!! :D :D :D :D
I used to have a JR radio..... Then my welfare check came in and I was able to UPGRADE!! :D :D :D

(Flame suit ON!!)

How can I get a check?? I fly JR too!
Last one of many, when able it will be Futaba again!

[AndreMan]

Okay, now I'm not sure what to buy again.

What's wrong with JR or the 9303?

Thanks

Andre

[WayneBrown]

They 'WORK' fine, but can be a little awkward to program some features.
I personally screwed up and got the Airplane version, and am trying to fly heli's with it. This poses problems due to switch location, but it's overcomeable, albiet inconvienient.
In all the years of flying JR, I've never ever used the servos to fly, they have always been futaba.
Add to the fact that the most popular gyro and governer is made by futaba, and you begin to see why futaba is favored.
Back a few years ago, the JR servos failed at a fairly high rate, and were underpowered compared to futaba gear, but it seems that this has been addressed and overcome.
The 9303 feels awkward due to the balance point, most using a neck strap have made an adapter to make it 'hang' right, other than that the feel is good, gimbals feel presise, and the programming screen is clear and well laid out.
It's a personal preference, bottom line.

[Tom Fiddler]

What Lamebird said!
Get the 9CHP
It will take very far, The most popular Gyro and Governor choices are in the Futaba menu and it's a very up to date radio.
This can easily get into a "Ford VS Chevy" thing (or what's popular in Canada EH
?)
But believe in what I say, because I know everything when it comes to Helis!! :D
Except how to fly!! :shock: