Let's choose a model for Sarah

The DX5e is perfectly adequate to fly the Radian, and can be bound to more than one model (like I used to do). The problem is that it retains the settings of the last model flown, rather than the built in memory of say the DX6i, which can retain up to 10 models unique settings. I used to fly both my Radian and T-28D with my DX5, problem was that both servos on Rad needed reversing, while the T-28's didn't. I flew both models with the wrong flight settings on more occasions that I care to admit to in those very early days :blush: When you're still learning to fly it's hard enough to fly models with the correct settings, but flying when up is down and left is right is nigh on impossible, usually with predictable results :ohmy: I couldn't move up to the DX6i soon enough (then the DX8), and I still have both my old trannies, just in case my DX8 fails.

The Beard wrote: At least Sarah can see what the Radian looks like Martin from the Als hobby link

www.modelchat.org.uk/forum/reviews-model...-3-channel-pnp#21290
I've also posted a review of my Radian. here is a picture of the Super Cub LP also. i1271.photobucket.com/albums/jj631/walrusrwd/Supercub017.jpg

I'd have to say a Multiplex plane, either the Mentor, or the Funcub.

Both can be built with far cheaper power trains than the Multiplex offering.

They may be very slightly more than some other choices, but the difference is a small percentage of the overall cost wit radio etc.

Both will be around in a couple of years time where others may be in the bin.

Both are heavy enough to take the A test.

Both allow learning of a wide range of skills, and I don't see why you could no pass the B test with either.

The Funcub vibration problems are not such an issue with a less powerful motor, but it still flies vary well.

Radio is probably best guided by what is commonly used at the local club, even if you do not join straight away.

Personally I would not buy Spektrum, at the same time I would not suggest the radio I use to someone new, unless they had skills in electronics (not that you need them for it to work, but to understand the benefits of the radio)


Although 35MHz is cheap, some people have reported problems with electric and 35MHz, so best to avoid any potential pitfalls until the signs of problems could be recognised.

If you are not going to fly on a buddy box system, and budget is a priority, then the HobbyKing or Turnigy systems are well worth looking at.

When you decide, before you buy bits, discuss it here, things like power choices and servo choices are easy to get wrong, and could end up just lying on the shelf and others having to be bought.

It is a cheap hobby, compared with smoking or drinking

Your right Steve, I have a number of new motors that would be suitable and esc that Ive bought and not used.What are your opinions on the DX6i and why woud you not recommend it. Is there a Futaba equivalent to the DX6i.Since changing to Futaba Ive not had a problem

Futaba do the T6EX, I have two, both work well with no problems. The branded receivers are expensive, but the Orange ones work well, with no problems. (as with all these Chinglish instructions you have to be a bit intuitive!) Where the Spektrum holds the edge is in the 'Bind n fly' market (BNF) For me there have been too many unexplained problems with Spektrum, no I am NOT entering into any discussion about it!

I have a Futaba 6ex think it is great never had any problems with it,
The other altenative is the Futaba t6j it uses the cheaper FHSS receivers too.
£119 at kings lynn models with Rx. LINK

I know stuff all about electric flight but what about the ST Discovery?
£130 for it including x2 lipos HERE

That's not half bad Dean. It's almost a clone of the Mentor.

There is a Discovery at our field en elder gent flies.He is learning and it looks ok.

Am reading these all folks, thank you thank you thank you :kiss: :kiss: :kiss: :kiss: :kiss: :kiss:

This weekend (cos think am gonna call off the Devon thing as cba lol) will go through the posts and write down the recommendations before Monday and spending spree............:whistle:

Forgot about the Discovery, seems ideal. I have the MX2 and unpowered Fox glider, which are pretty good imho.

Sarah
Just to prove the smaller 40" is fully repaired I flew briefly today (quite a bit of wind) with my Key Fob cam on board. Up to about 800' and straight down again!

Unfortunately the cam battery died just before the landing.

The Beard wrote: Your right Steve, I have a number of new motors that would be suitable and esc that Ive bought and not used.What are your opinions on the DX6i and why woud you not recommend it. Is there a Futaba equivalent to the DX6i.Since changing to Futaba Ive not had a problem

Hard to answer without starting the classic war, but anyway.

I am not specifically against Spektrum or any other brand, but looking at the way it is made (I have not seen the latest ones, only up to it is no different or better than any other cheap transmitter.

The difference comes in the price and the backup service as far as I can see, with the price paying for the backup!

If one goes wrong it is repaired without question, another so called happy customer, but what about the black bag full of balsa scraps?

Of course other makes go wrong as well, but it does seem that they have more obvious reasons, like being dropped etc.

I don't need the backup, as if it goes wrong I can fix it myself, I probably have more test equipment than the service people, and about 40 years experience of RF and electronic repairs.
Therefore I don't need the higher price. That is basically why I would not buy it.

I have been using the TH9X for 3 years now, I have five of them, one not even switched on, and have never had a fault. The first ones I did resolder all the switches and pots before using, but that is not needed on the new ones. The build quality is as good as any other, and reliability has been 100%. With the modified firmware, it is more flexible than transmitters costing 10 times its price. Other big makes are starting to follow the ideas set by it.

I would suggest JR (the new ones) or Hitec. Futaba if it meets the budget as well.

Much of the hardware in the low end to mid range sets is very similar in quality, the difference in price is brand name and after sales service.

Totally agree,what would you recommend Sarah buys.

Sarah
Before you rush out and buy a plane (I know that's a bit like telling a drowning man not to struggle!) but have you decided where you are going to fly?
It can make a difference to the most suitable type of plane for you.

You can of course buy the radio but might it be a bit frustrating to have nothing to put it in?

Then of course there are the 'package deals' with everything included. If you are on a budget its a bit annoying if you can't take advantage because you have already bought part of it!

Right at the beginning I think there was the suggestion to visit the club of your choice (or maybe the only one possible!) as it might help the decision on what to get.:S

As you might have guessed I am related to Ebenezer Scrooge so you are quite entitled to say :oops: and go ahead anyway!

No I think you make a very relevant point and wish I had some experts to advise me at the begnning,would havbe saved me a fortune.