I'm about ready to buy a new radio, one that I can use for a long time to control just about any plane I come across. I've narrowed down my search to include JR 8103 and Futaba 9C. How do these radios compare? Is one, or both, missing something I just can't do without? I don't plan on flying competitions but I want to be able to control a warbird with retracts, flaps, etc. and/or a aerobatic plane. I would really appreciate everyones opinions and suggestions. Thanks.

The only real difference between those radio's is personal preference really.. For my dollar I buy Futaba. I have seen less problems with signal strength with Futaba than JR. One thing I didnt like about the JR radios is the tendency of the the servos to go full deflection when your signal gets too weak, verses futaba just chatters real bad, but you still have control.. this is just a personal observation. I believe if you route your antenna properly and keep your batteries charged you shouldnt have a problem with any of the manufactures.

Good luck,

FW

You might want to check out the HiTec Eclipse. While I use mostly Futaba, I find I like the Eclipse a lot. I often trouble shoot others problems and, with the Eclipse with the Spectra module, I can run any make RC system other than PCM receivers. I've used it with Futaba, JR, HiTec and Airtronics receivers with 100% success. It also has memory for seven different models. going price it typically 118 bucks US for Xmtr, Spectra module, nicads and charger.

If your goals are to only fly 6 channels and have some mixing capabilities, you could save a ton of money by buying a less expencive computer radio. Like the Futaba 6xas.

Check with your local hobby shop that you deal with all the time and see what he carries. Here in Las Vegas you see more JRs than any other, but we have 2 good dealers in town for them. This way, which ever way you go you will have a good supply of what you want. I have 3 JRs and my son in-law has 3 JRs plus between the 2 of us we have over 10 flight packs and I have a friend that likes your other radio and he has 2 set up`s. So pick a radio that you can get parts for when you need them.

Some folks will likely put up a list of obscure features to try to differentiate the two, but they're pretty much the same feature-wise. My advice is to pick them each up and play with them. See which sticks you like better, and which radio feels better in your hand. If you intend to use it for a long time, take the time to see how they each feel. Buy whichever works best for you.

For me, it was an 8103 over an 8U. There was a distinct difference in a feel/quality sense.

Thanks for the replies, everyone. Since the radios are so similar, I think I'll take a trip down to the hobby shop and play around with the transmitters and just make a decision based on feel and instinct. Thanks again.