Correction to my previous post:

It is not actually all that expensive to convert Futaba to PCM, just need a new receiver. Granted they are still $129.99 on Tower. However, If I do go PCM, it will only be on the gasser.

As for Myths: A radio link just doesn't go dead, unless the battery dies or the antenna is cut(Frequency change).

The problem is that if their is sufficent noise the receiver can not make out the input signals. Any noise problems are generally sorted during your range check, but this is generally only an issue with gassers (Plane or Heli, due to the ignition).

Now I have never had a bearing fail on anything yet, but I would theorize it would probably be something that is progressive, and could be noticed in the early stages of failure. To continue on topic, I would rather notice that early shake, than have it go unnoticed and become a real problem.

Basically:
FM allows you to see the glitch, and troubleshoot
PCM masks the issue until it is too late. (This is by design, as the input signals are incoded and filtered, similar to TCP/IP for any networking folks)

Now it may be possible to notice the slower response of the heli due to the PCM receiver chucking the garbled signal pulses, but that depends on how good a pilot you are. For a newbie, I doubt they would be that in tune with their heli. People new the the Heli Hobby need obvious indicators of a problem not subtle ones, I know I did. Come on, how many of use have put the gyro in reverse on a new heli, now that is obvious.

With FM I might start to see the glitch, and be able to land safely before it becomes a problem.

Either way, make your choice, but don't say one way is better than the other. They are two different technologies, and both have their good points and bad.

Thanks for you time.