Buying My First Radio - Spread Spectrum - What to Buy?!

[merlinsoars]

I've been flying JR for years and just got into the Spectrum DX7. I'm flying mine in everything, the programming is straight forward (to me) and so far its bulletproof. Never got into Futaba as there are some latent prejudices from the time I worked for Kraft. Both would do you fine.

Keith

[DR10044]

I have the Futaba 6, over 100+ flights, no issues. I will be buying the 12 as soon as it comes out.

[hoverover]

Hi, I was reading this thread and it didn't seem like you got your question answered directly. I've had a few problems with spektrum glitching and have had some resulting mishaps. It MIGHT be BEC power system related. In any event, some research uncovered the following Spektrum vs. Futaba comparison:
I have not verified this data but thought you might be interested:

"Comparison of Spectrum vs. Futaba:

Spectrum resets at 3.5 volts
Futaba resets at 2.6 volts.

Spectrum reset time is 2500 to 3000 milliseconds.
Futaba reset time is 900 milliseconds.

Spectrum turns all the servos on at the same time.
Futaba turns the servos on sequentially.

Apparently low voltage spiking is to a much lower voltage than anyone ever expected. FM/PPM systems simply don't hard fail on a low voltage spike.

The Futaba manual states:
"Your system provides a second safety function called Battery Failsafe. When the airborne battery voltage drops below approximately 3.8V, the battery fail safe functions moves the throttle to a predetermined position.

When the battery failsafe is activated, your engine will move to idle (if you haven't set a position) or a preset position. ... You may temporarily reset the failsafe function by moving the throttle stick to idle, at which time you'll have about 30 seconds of throttle control before the battery function reactivates."

[BOSSIER_ROB]

I am by no means pushing a product but if you do go with a 9c and add the module, I think you'll like it. I use a 9c stricktly for the price. It was in my budget and I needed the extras such as all the mixing features for my big gasser. I DO NOT use the spectrum module but several people I know have upgraded without any problems so far. I like the 9c because you can have all the bells and whistles you could need from your first trainer to the 3D giants. I haven't had the need to go with the spectrum module because I fly on a channel that rarely gets used at my home field, and have seen few use at fly-ins. I also have the Synthesized Tx and Rx so if I need to change frequencies, I can just adjust them. I'm not trying to influence your choice, just letting you know what I know, so far anyway. Good luck and welcome to the hobby!

[Dan_nO]

One other thing not mentioned here and a lot of us dont look at or think about it as we are always looking at the price is the warranty on our investments.

Futaba has a 1 year warranty

JR has a 3 year warranty

Both radios are good, but if you want to take warranty into consideration then thats something to think about also.

[jonkoppisch]

I agree with hoverover. The receiver reset voltage can save or cost you a plane and the battery failsafe is a must. Keeping your batteries fully charged on the 2.4 systems is critical! On the other hand, I think that the spektrum offers model match which everyone seems to really like. I believe the way it works is that when you turn on and select a model, if you select the wrong model the plane wont respond.. I had the xps system and it cost me a plane. I don't have either the futaba or spektrum but when I purchase again I'm leaning toward the futaba.

[wildhare]

I own a DX7, a Futabe 9c with the Spektrum 2.4 module, and the JR X9303.

Model match is very important, and the 9C does not have it. 9C with the module is exactly the same as 9C without the module except you are on a different frequency and don't need to worry about shootdowns. It's no faster,only has 8 channels, and has external wiring to the antenna that Ithink will eventually get snagged on something or otherwise will be a problem.

DX7 is very good, but if you don't want to buy a second radio in a year get the X9303. Its technology is now tested and it works, it is a higher end radio and will last you a lifetime.

TF

[seflyer]

I am flying the dx7 in everything from foamies to my 40% 3W extra, and a dozen or so helis, NO problems at all. going into my tamjets f-16 in january. programming is a preference, i am totally lost in futaba's thinking but have always had no problems with spektrun/jr menus. it boils down to what you like.

[wildhare]

The 9C is easy to program, the X9303 is probably easier to learn and use. The DX7 is fairly simple though the buttons are not as fast as the dial bar on the 9303.

TF

[tinchokill]

Hello Aly....How are you? Well....obviously Spektrum 7 and de Futaba´s 7C are rivals. I am an r/c instructor here in Argentine and I have flown with both radios. Futaba 7c is good and the Spektrum too....i wanna say that you will not have problems with these Radios....
Personally I prefer the Spektrum because looks like a hard Radio and the Futaba 7C looks like a Toy Radio because it has a lot of plastic.....
Do not hesitate .... purchase Spektrum!

Go JR, Go!

	Quote: Originally Posted by Aly
	Hi, I’m just starting RC flying and looking to buy a spread spectrum system as my first radio. I’m considering Futaba’s 7C FASST (when it becomes available) and Spektrum’s DX7. Let me know what you all think. Aly

[StPeteFlyer]

I have been using the DX7 for about 8 months now and not a single problem. I only wished I waited for the X9303 to come out, because now I would like to have the extra 2 channels. Oh well thats is what all of them gift cards I got for Christmas are for.

[bradyrc]

DX7 is the way to go!!! If you take the time to program it you can fly a 50CC aeroplane with out any matchboxes. Nice transmitter!!!