I believe the problems have been corrected on the current engines.

My first DA-50 developed problems at about 20 flights. The folks at DA replaced the crank, rod and piston in the engine. They also did a reed cage mod. The current engines have the reed mod and the new crank and rod. The engine has run great since.

On my second DA-50 the ignition went out during the third flight. We have several DA-50s in my club and I was able to trace the problem down to the pick-up by swapping parts. I will call DA tomorrow and try to get a replacement under warranty. This engine was running very well for the 3 flights I had on it. This engine is on a pipe and the throttle response is excellent and power is great.

I too have always been a 3W owner, mostly 150s, until buying the DA-50s. I have had problems with 3W engines, although not as frequent, and would say that the products of both are very similar in quality, performance and service. There is no magical engine, they can both run excellent, give great service and they can both break as well. I would have no problem buying another DA or 3W, they are both great and I like having options.

Long story short, buy the DA-50, you will like it.