ORIGINAL: Pambs
the prob is that i'll be building a large cat that will cost me a lot of money and i wont feel comfortoble without having a good radio if you know what i mean
There is actually little difference in the reliability of radios from the name brand manufacturers. I too see lots of people using the 3PK, but I also see people using less expensive radios. The typical gas boat needs two channels, steering and throttle. A third channel could be used for something else, but typically isn't. Nitro boats are often setup with a 3rd channel to control the needle valve. Since the gas engines have a more sophisticated carb, the third channel needle isn't needed. The Futaba 3PM is an example of a radio that's at a lower price point than the 3PK.