Hey guys, I am very interested in starting in this hobby and I think it would be great to get a nice simulator to start with. I found a radio to usb adaptor on Ebay http://cgi.ebay.com/RC-Flight-Simula...QQcmdZViewItem and I was curious if you guys advised that I buy the radio that I want to use, and use that with the simulator, or should I just buy a sim alone? Also what sims would you guys recommend? I see that FMS is free, should I just get my radio and the adaptor and use FMS?

I just got the Real Flight G 3.5 for Christmas and its pretty nice ...although i dont have any experience with other simulators

it comes with a transmitter that plugs into the usb port and adapters for use with other radios

only one problem so far .......the spring for the elevator control came loose ( it doesnt center any more ) but the hobby shop said that they would swap it out for me when they get some more in at the end of the week

Im having fun with it so far

Here is a complete system including FMS. http://cgi.ebay.com/Esky-RC-Flight-H...QQcmdZViewItem

I bought a used Futaba radio and a USB adapter (from Tom's RC) off of eBay. Tom send a copy of FMS with tons of models and a few utilities free of charge. I think I spent $20 on the radio and $20 on the adapter - both work well with FMS and I've got a descent SIM for under $50 - I use the same radio at the field as my buddy box.

Simulators are VERY useful but like everyone says they are not a substitute for flying the real thing, which wen u think about it is great lol. I practiced on G3.5 for about a month before i actually flew and was able to solo in 2 flights. So i really dont think you can go wrong with one. Goodluck

i would get either the new fs1 by hangar 9 or get g3.5 which is what i have. really the g3.5 is better for one reason, its cheaper! there is really no difference between the two other than the fact that g3.5 has more planes. nither has better graphics.