My question could be posted in the Radio equipment section, but I wanted to hear the opinions from the Pattern flying crowd.

I am looking to get a Radio and of course I know, get the greatest radio you can afford. Further, I also know that one can compete with a 4 channel radio. With that said, what are the opinions of the bare minimum a radio needs to be able to be Pattern flying worthy.

I am learning slowly but am overwelmed about such things as: Dual Conversion, Elevator to Flap, Flap to Elevator, V-Tail Mixing, Elevon Mixing, Aileron to Rudder. Are all of these functionalities a "must"? Or which is most important?

I also see some statements such as "My next Pattern plane I am getting a PCM receiver." This is a bit confusing of the actually reasons why.

Should there be a minimum number of channels for Pattern flying?


I am considering a Futaba 7CAF 7-Channel FM/4 S3004 Servos, and a Futaba 9CAFS, with a FM receiver and S3004 Servos.

Yes, I know I will hear get the 9CAFS if you can afford it, but what are the reasons why to get the 9CAFS vs the 7CAF for an emphasis on Pattern flying.



Thanks for tolerating my ignorance and any help.