Radios...
 

OK where to start... If you've seen my other posts you'll know I'm new to this hobby and want to do it right, so I'm looking for a radio not 4ch preferably cause I don't want to buy a bunch just cause I started on 4 and now I need or rather want 6, so if I can get some pointers it be great, someone did suggest I get a Spektrum DX7 but I'm not sure (especially after watching the info videos about it) that it can be hooked to a buddy box or even if it is ideal for a beginner, but I would like something that is kinda top notch that will last a longtime and I can grow with not need to replace every once in awhile and a few extra chanlles would be ice unless someone can explain how it effects the beginner (i.e. complexity or knobs that get in the way)

Dave

RE: Radios...
 

I can't tell you a lot about the spectrum. Everyone says it's the future of radios but like you said, what about a buddy box?. I'd probably stay with JR or Futaba until that question is answered. Look for the easiest to program for future use. A computer radio is easiest to set up because you can electronically set up your throws and you can program more than one aircraft into the same radio and the fine tuning stays with that aircraft program. Something new is being able to select different channels on your radio so if you get to a busy field and want to fly and 3 other people are on the same channel waiting in line to fly. Just select a different channel on the radio, match the radio and the receiver and fly.

RE: Radios...
 

I'm with the dog on this one, I would wait to see what happens with the dx7. I use futaba(9C) an i love everything about them. You can put a ton of models in the radio the switches can be moved to where you want them, an programing it is a no brainer.As for channels, were i fly we only have about 15 guys an girls that fly there. I started on ch 49 an there was one other guy there on 49. So buy looking an seein what everyone is on i found a ch no one else was on an everything is kewl. The upper crust at our field lets people now when they come out with a trainer an a four ch, that when they do upgrade in radios to be aware of what ch people are useing an get one thats open so you won't have to wait. But I have found that just shootin the breeze is just as much fun as flyin, so haveing to wait does not bother me that much. Thats just me

RE: Radios...
 

Buying a computer radio with 6, 7, 8, or even 9 channels can be a good idea, but at the same time, as a new student, you also need to have the self control to NOT start playing with the various bells and whistles on the transmitter. Having a Futaba 9C myself, I know how easy it is to look at all the various things and wonder "what will this do?". Since I've only flown a few times myself, I would leave ALL the transmitter settings alone and try to set up your plane by adjusting linkages. When you get to the field and start working with an instructor, have the instructor make all the transmitter adjustments and, AFTER THE PLANE IS BACK ON THE GROUND, have the instructor go over what (s)he did and why. I'm sure RCKen would agree with me on this, since Ken is an instructor;)

RE: Radios...
 

Absolutely. I've seen many a beginning pilot sit there and try to figure out all of the bells and whistles of their radio while learning to fly. In my opinion the best thing for a student to learn to fly on is a bare bones 4 channel basic radio. I say this because then the student learns to actually fly the plane like they should be doing, instead of using fancy mixes and computer help. Now with that being said, if a student can buy a computer radio and leave all the "fancy gadgets" alone then they will be just fine. But a student should never ever do anything on their radio while training without letting their instructor know what they did. Trust me on this one, this is a biggie. I've seen a student mess around with his radio and not tell the instructor about it, and then when the instructor tried to fly the plane he couldn't control it and lost the plane. So if you get a computer radio, just stick to the basics while you are learning.

As for the Spektrum radio. It may have another name, but it's a JR radio. From what I have seen a JR buddy box setup will work on the Spektrum radio setups.

Hope this helps

Ken

RE: Radios...
 

A couple of comments on the buddy box issue. When I looked at the Spektrum (DX6 at that time as the 7 only came out recently) there was an issue, as I recall, connecting it to anything other than another JR radio. Don't remember the specifics but, seeme323, you might want to check with the LHS or supplier on the issue before purchasing. There is also something about negative versus positive shift in regard to receivers and servos as I recall (I have forgotten about it since I took a different route). Through this forum I was advised to find out what most of the people in my club used and, at least as a novice, go with that. Good advice, as there will then be a number of folks to help in terms of issues, setup, etc. Also, I really agree with RCKen about either leaving all the doodads off on your computer radio or starting with a non-computer unit. I use a 4YF Futaba. Yes, I have to retrim the plane every time I fly (it is virtually impossible to NOT knock one or more of the trim switches out of position at some point prior to the flight). And there is no dual rate or proportional setting. I have to put my thumb on the carb to stop the motor. BUT...all this is, I'm convinced, making me a better flyer. By the time I soloed I had flown eight different planes and on three different radios, all without computer help. Not only are my fine motor skills better because of this, but my confidence in controlling my Goldberg Eagle 2 is higher because of having flown an electric and then a fuel Superstar, an Avistar, two Ugly Stiks, a Telemaster, and obviously a couple I've even lost track of. When I finally got and settled into the Eagle and my 4YF it became much easier, in my opinion, to add the basic ability of takeoffs and landings than would otherwise have been the case. While I am ready for digital trims that never change and some day in the not too distant future a low wing trainer like the Fourstar, I have no regrets about learning "the hard way" on a non-computer radio

RE: Radios...
 

It has been answered several times in the JR/Spectrum support forum that the DX6 AND DX7 are both compatible with JR buddy boxes.
It is NOT intended to connect to other brands for training.
As far as negative/positive shift is concerned, that is a non-issue as the system ONLY operates with Spectrum receivers. NO others. ANY servos will work with the system though as long as you observe proper plug pin orientation.

RE: Radios...
 

Most servo's will work with the DX7. I have a mix of Airtronics, JR, Hitec, Futaba, and they all work with the DX7. So, enough on that subject.

Spektrum states that the DX7 will work with the JR system as a buddy box set up or another DX7. So, enough said on that subject.

As for the best radio.. well, RCKen said it as did some others. Less is best for the new students, but if you can get a good multi-channel (over 4) with bells and whistles, then go for it, as long as you can remember to keep it simple until you qualify and solo. Then you can start by adding expo, and checking/changing end points, and so on. Very simple stuff until you get the hang of what it's all about.

Now as far as the DX7 is concerned, I have had several other brands of radio's, and can say with confidence that the DX7 is a fine radio. It will do just about everything all the others will do, but one of the most important features is the 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum system that is absolutely safe. It also incorporates a built in fail-safe system, model memory model-safe system that won't let you operate the wrong model, and more features.

Decide for yourself what to choose, but consider the future of the sport and where all this is going. Futaba and JR are already considering Spread Spectrum systems, from what I hear, so there must be something to that.

No matter what you choose, keep it safe, keep it simple, and enjoy the sport!

DS.

RE: Radios...
 

I think the "BEST" person to ask this question to is not all of us here, we are all more than willing to share our experiences, advice and oppions, but really the best person is your instructor. 1] he'll help you choose something he knows how to program, adjust and probably have a buddy box and trainer cords for. That saves you from having to supply him with the training aids for your plane. 2] he can advice you as to what channels to stay away from. We have approx 5 that get "HIT" alot. 3] by using what is common for your flying site often somebody has a spare servo,extension or what ever, so you can keep flying instead of packing up to run to the L.H.S. We often loan or sell parts where we fly.

RE: Radios...
 

I bought a 6ch computer radio (Futaba 6XAS) as my standard radio for my trainer. I set it up as a basic 4ch system but DID program exponential rates on aileron, elevator and rudder. I also had to reverse channels 2,3 and 4 (elevator, throttle and rudder).

As long as you don't go overboard with the programming, mixes and other settings, a computer radio is perfectly fine. Biggest advantage with mine is I can store all the trim settings for my trainer and not worry about having to reset everything when moving to a 2nd model.