Hi,

I'm new to R/C flying, I'm trying to decide on my first plane. I have some questions that may make up my mind for me. I have been looking at some of the RTF packages, And ARf also.

I see that most of the RTF packages come with 3 channel Transmitters. Would it be better for me to buy a seperate 4 or so channel transmitter right off the bat? I have seen that you can get the ARF planes a lot cheeper.

The other question is, If I pick up a used, Or new 4 or so channel transmitter, Do I need anything special for the frequence that i will be using? Like I said I am new to this, And I'm trying to understand how all this stuff works.

Thanks for any help you can offer

Ron Potts

P.S. do we have any kite fliers out there? (Dual Line)

Here is a good link that can answer some of the basic questions you were asking:

[link=http://www.easyrc.com/airplanes/index.html]Easy R/C[/link]

Ron, when you buy a "Radio" it should come with a transmitter, reciever, servos, battery pack, and switch. For first timers, I recommend buying new stuff, that way you're getting a matched set of everything.

And yes, you're better off getting 4-channel equipment.

How serious you are about the hobby?? I have found that new flyers either jump right in and do it right or go the cheaper route. The ones that get a 40 sized trainer with a good engine and a new 4 channel radio pass their wings and do well in the hobby. 3 channel radios have limited range and wouldn't be allowed at an RC club. Most planes have 4 channels with larger planes having 5 or 6 channels. You will need to learn to use 4 channels for basic operation. It isn't hard but does take a bit of time. The majority of new flyers that buy small foamy planes with 3 channel radios have disappointing results. Then they either soon give up on the whole idea or, if they are still interested they start over the right way and replace everything.

Well, this is only true of 3 channel radio equipment in some of the cheap "toys". Standard 3 channel, 72 mHz equipment has the same range as the 4 channel stuff, but your point is taken.

If you're serious about this hobby, then a good 40 size trainer with a decent 4 channel radio set (on 72 mHz)will be the minimum you want to buy. Even if you go with an electric plane, try to avoid the cheap 27 mHz stuff.
Dennis-

As stated, take a look at your goals. If you want to get into it, see if you like it and you think you are going to quit right away, get cheap stuff. If you are going to stay with the hobby, get good stuff or you won't like the hobby. The cheap stuff is just that. Cheap. The good stuff will last a long time.

40 size trainer, good 4 to 6 ch radio, good engine.

Tower Hobbies has a Trainer setup for around $260, Plane, Engine and Radio. There are a few other combo's out their too. Go with one of these. If you like the hobby, then spend the bucks, if you don't then you have not lost all that much

Another thing about getting standard 40 size trainer w/4 channel stuff is that if you decide you don't like the hobby, you can probably sell your stuff to other new flyers at the RC club. It would be hard to sell a 3 channel setup. [8D]

WOW can't wait to see how certain members respond to that statement... Red Cape Bull?

Seriously 240zron1 the best thing to do is buy nothing go find a club and see if they will teach you.
Then have a nice long conversation with your instructor In ten minutes you will get more information about what gear to buy then you'll know what to do with.

Going this route ensures that you will be getting equipment that is compatible (buddy box) with either your instructors equipment or the club equipment. It also means that you will be getting (Hopefully) gear that your instructor is familar and comfortable with this alone is worth it. When it comes right down to it the majority of .40 sized trainers have nearly identical flight characteristics and since you have nothing to compare it to you want know the difference or care. This in my opinion is the best way to get started in the hobby.

If you do enough research here you will find that for every post panning a specific plane there are other posts praising the same plane.
The vital piece of equipment in learning to fly is the instructor

Thanks everyone for the great coments. I have never flown an R/C plane, But have been watching a bunch of them fly at the practice field that we fly kites at. I have been flying kites for a couple years now, I have been competing at all the compitions in the N.W. area.

It looks like the hobby is like kite flying, I started out with a $40.00 kite, And now have over 20 kites that range from $150.00 to over $500.00 each.

I wanted to start with the least amount of money possible, In case i didn't enjoy the sport, But like flying kites, You get what you pay for. So I think I will try and find a club in the area and go and watch, and talk to people before i make a choice.

Do any of you live in Washingto state? (Tacoma-Bremerton area) Or do you know of ant clubs in the area?