2.4g transmitter - which to buy ?

[Bugster]

I'm in a dilemma pondering whether I should buy a new Spektrum or a spektrum module for my old JR X3810 and would really welcome some advice please.

On the one hand if I buy a new DX6i I should have a nice reliable modern outfit which it seems is becoming an industry standard so should be pretty future proof. It's also well priced and seems a bit cheaper than a module for the JR.

On the other hand I do like my old JR, it's never given a moments bother and the sticks are silky smooth. It's got 10 model memory, heli features (which I confess I don't fully understand and I've lost the instruction book) and .. well .. I've got used to it's menus and "feel". A spektrum module to convert it to 2.4g is available but it's a bit dearer than a new DX6i.

I would really like to hear what experiences others have had in the same situation before parting with the cash. Thanks in advance .

[Steve]

I went down this road a while back.

I had a 35MHz JR9xii Tx and 9 models. I decided to try 2.4GHz but didn't want to buy 9 new receivers at that time, so bought a Spektrum module and a couple of receivers, so I could plug-in and plug-out my 35MHz module and 2.4GHz module at will, depending on which model I was flying.

The 2.4 worked fine so over a period I started getting some more 2.4 receivers until I had all that I needed. Then I made the dumb mistake of switching the Tx on one day with the 2.4 module in and the aerial not attached = dead module! There's a big sticker on the side of the module that says "DON'T DO IT", but it was a senior moment and that was the end of my 2.4 module.

So, rather than buy a new module, I stuck all my 35MHz receivers and my 9xii on eBay and made just about enough to buy a new DSX9. All my models transfered over from the 9xii to the DSX9 via the buddy lead and I was good to go....... almost....... all the servo centres moved with the DSX9, so I had to adjust all my models, but that was a minor niggle.

Been using the DSX9 for 6 months ish now and had no problems with it at all.

2nd hand transmitters always seem to get good money on eBay, even the older ones, or keep the old one for using on your sim or something.

That's my story.

[Edders]

get yourself a DX7 much nicer transmitter admittedly more expensive but will last longer in terms of helis and functions


Edders

[Eddie]

I use a 6 channel DX6i for my electric helis and it suits me down to the ground.

Currently I’ve no ambition to go nitro; otherwise I’d opt for the DX7.

[Pipistrelli]

I had a similar dilemma, I have a 35mghz futaba FF9 which I really like, so when the spektrum modules came out, I bought one, it works really well with all the functionality of the FF9 radio, but the aerial connector sticks out of the back and is susceptible to damage.

I since bought a DX6i to use with 2 nitro models, but found myself using it more and more.

If I could go back, I would sell my FF9 and buy a DX7, or DX6i if you can't afford the 7!

[marktigere1]

I use a DX6i for a Nitro and a 450 leccy model.

Works very well for me and I have had it nearly a year with no problems at all.

Just bear in mind that the DX7 has an extra idle up and the additional channel although I have not found a need for them yet!!

Just my 2p but if I had the money I would opt for the DX7 but the DX6i will serve you equally as well.

Cheers

Mark

[scoobycolin]

DSX9 is great but at a ridiculous price. I ended up buying the DX7. I had a DX6i. IMHO the DX7 feels much better quality.

[Steve]

DSX9 is great but at a ridiculous price. I ended up buying the DX7. I had a DX6i. IMHO the DX7 feels much better quality.

It is expensive, but you're getting a lot of transmitter.

Heli only fliers don't generally need 9 channels, so the DX7 would suit most such pilots, but 9 (or more) channels can be very useful for plane fliers. I fly both planes and helis, and the DSX9 suits me down to the ground.

[colin n]

I like my module.

it was only 120 quid with a 9 channel rx so that works out about 30 quid for the module.!!

i put the wires inside...cosmic.

[SRH990]

There's a new Walkera 2.4g transmitter in MHW this month.........


I'll get my coat now

[Bugster]

Thanks everyone for the great advice. I guess by a large majority the opinion is to buy a new Spektrum DX6i or DX7 and either sell or mothball the old JR .

[liambaker996]

hi there i have just bought a spektrum dx6i and i think i will never look back again this is the best tranny by miles

[jboweruk]

Yep, for all the teething troubles I had with my DX6i I don't regret it. The downer of them is the trim switches are a little weak, but as long as you don't trim too often and do it gently they'll last fairly well, and the tranny itself is a beauty. I may go for the DX7 down the line, specially as I want to put lights on my B400, but for now the 6i will do me.

[gramey]

I have a DX6i as it came with a Blade 400 that I bought, but personally having used a JR for several flights whilst learning on my nitro I find it far more comfortable in my hands. The DX6i is quite flat and wide and not the most comfortable TX I've used by a mile. As soon as funds allow I'll get a DX7, if you get the chance try both in your hands, even better if you can try a friends if you know people with both.
I think you'll find the DX7 far closer to what your used to but that's just my 2p worth.

[Bugster]

Thanks for all your advice - well I took the plunge and bought the DX7 miniature combo with AR6100 receiver and 3 JR micro servos. The DX7 feels real quality and just like my old JR X 3810 with silky smooth sticks - I felt at home with it as soon as I held it. Really delighted and thanks again to everyone who gave me advice. .

Warning note though. The LHS told me Spektrum prices are due to rise with a bump probably next month. They couldn't say exactly how much but guessed at 10%. Apparently all due to the weak £ versus the US $. So if you are waiting to save the 2.5% VAT reduction next Monday it might be too late.