I own Futaba radios, a 4YBF and a 7CAP. I like my Futaba radio systems, they have served me well. I don't think Futaba is the only game in town though.

I finally got my hands on a Hitec Laser 4 transmitter today, and I was surprised at how much nicer it was than my Futaba 4YBF! The metal handle at the top is a very nice touch, especially since the plastic handle on my 4YBF is loose and pulls apart at the seam. The chrome trim on the front of the Laser 4 is a nice touch, too.

You have to love a basic 4-channel sport radio that provides you with end-point adjustments as well as v-tail and elevon mixing, too. The Hitec Laser 4 is the nicest 4-channel sport radio I've seen. I'd buy one instead of the 4YF if I were ever in the market again for a good, solid 4-channel radio system.

I think its a shame that Airtronics is so underrated in the North American marketplace. Hopefully the new distribution deal with Global will lead to some creative new ways to make Airtronics products more common at the airfield. If I knew then what I know now, I would have happily purchased the Airtronics RD8000 instead of my 7CAP.

JR is a bit of mystery to me. They use single conversion FM receivers in their sub $300 radio systems. I just see the other three manufacturers as offering better value at most of the lower price points. The JR Sport SX600 at $159.99 seems like an awfully good value though; if it only came with model naming and a dual conversion receiver...