ORIGINAL: jerzdvt
Big Ed,
Thanks a lot for that detailed reply. Right now I'm leaning toward the Hangar 9 Alpha with DSM2 5ch radio; second choice is the Avistar 40 with Futaba 4yf 4ch radio "semisym" wing design. I don't know what dihedral is, or how to find it or how to change it, but from your reply it sounds like there is not a ton of difference in flight between these models. I just watched a video on the Hangar 9 engine, which is tuned to be user friendly for the newbie with some extra parts which can then be removed for use in a second plane. The programmable radio is really catching my eye, both for the channel security and for the programmability for future planes (I imagine myself getting bored with a trainer for some reason, but maybe they're more aerobatic than I am assuming). I dream of one day flying a hot little low-wing sporty plane, ripping by with low altitude rolls, etc.
Thanks again.
Before purchacing an Alpha with the DX5 transmitter ensure your prospective instructor can interface with that transmitter for buddy box training.
I have flow the Nexstar, Alpha 40, Avistar, and the Arrow. I will say all of these planes are excelent flyers with my personal favorite being the Arrow for it's aerobatic abilities and size. (slightly larger than the Avistar) If you get an RTF package the Avistar falls short in that it comes with a capable but enimic OS .40 LA. The weaker engine will teach you to fly the plane but when you get past that you will want more grunt on the nose. The one I flew was outfitted with a Thunder Tiger Pro .46 BB so it was a lot of fun. My Arrow has an OS .46 FX and it is amazing. The Nexstar comes with an OS .46 fx(i) and is heavier than the rest of the aformentioned planes. More mass on impact = more damage. It is a capable plane that will teach you to fly but it will bore you much sooner than the other two. The Alpha 40 I flew suprized me with its great combination of size and power. While it was less aerobatic it was a no brainer for cutting lazy circles in the sky with the ocasional loop and roll.