I have been using a tray ever since I switched from a single stick transmitter to dual stick 4 years ago. With single stick you have a firm hold on the transmitter, it stays in place with constant orientation, and you can move your hand away from the stick to adjust trims or swat flies. I was never confortable holding the dual stick transmitter even with a neck strap. I too grasp the sticks between thumb and forefinger, just like I did the single stick transmitter.

Bruce